Design Review Board approves new home at 796 Gainsborough Drive after concept revisions

The Laguna Beach Design Review Board on April 10 unanimously approved design review 24-2384, coastal development permit 24-2395 and variance 25-0059 for a new single-family residence at 796 Gainsborough Drive, finding the project exempt from CEQA.

Staff said the project had been previously reviewed at concept and that the applicant had addressed earlier direction to refine privacy, articulation at the front and other details. The project includes a primary residence with an attached three-car garage, a detached ADU (the ADU itself is outside design-review jurisdiction but is included in the CDP), elevated decks, grading and a fuel-modification plan.

Architect Lee (presenting for the applicant) described the design as responding to hillside guidelines; several board members praised the project's materials palette, articulation and landscaping. Board member comments highlighted thoughtful detailing, compatibility with the Diamond Crestview specific plan, and that the project provides parking solutions appropriate to the site. Staff included a condition requiring payment of an in-lieu fee for the on-street parking variance.

Why it matters: The approved design is in the Diamond Crestview area and was judged by staff and the board to meet hillside and neighborhood-compatibility guidelines after prior concept review revisions.

Board action: The board adopted the staff recommendation and approved the design review, coastal development permit and variance by unanimous roll call. The motion included findings that the project meets applicable design review criteria and that the parking variance may be granted with payment of the in-lieu fee.

Next steps: The applicant will proceed to building-permit submittal and must satisfy the standard conditions of approval, including payment of the in-lieu parking fee and any building and site-specific conditions listed in the resolution.