Design board continues 2103 Castillo Street ADU to consent, requests more exterior and landscaping detail

The Santa Barbara Single‑Family Design Board on April 21 continued the concept review for a two‑story accessory dwelling unit proposed at 2103 Castillo Street and asked the applicant to return to the consent calendar with more detailed exterior design and landscaping information.

The board voted unanimously to continue the item after hearing from the project agent, Jaime Limon, and staff. Limon described the proposal as a new two‑story ADU behind an existing roughly 900‑square‑foot single‑story residence and said the existing rear garage and certain patio structures would be demolished to make room for the new building. He told the board the design meets most ADU criteria except height and therefore triggered full board review.

Board members emphasized that they broadly supported the ADU’s massing but wanted the applicant to develop more “charm‑giving” architectural details and a landscaping plan that addresses screening and the proximity of a mature oak tree on an adjacent property. “I mean, I I think it’s a fine project,” Board Member Richards said. Vice Chair Sherry told the applicant she did not accept the argument that window trim should be omitted because it will rot, and urged use of durable materials and appropriate detailing: “There’s materials you can use if you install the trim appropriately. It’s not gonna rot.”

Why it matters: the project…