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Board requests refinements on Braemar Ranch remodel; asks for softer retaining walls and consistent detailing
Summary
On March 10 the Single Family Design Board continued review of a large remodel and addition at 4575 Braemar Ranch Lane and asked the applicant to provide retaining-wall sections, consistent window/door detailing and a landscaping plan to soften steep wall faces around a proposed pool.
The Single Family Design Board on March 10 revisited a large renovation and addition at 4575 Braemar Ranch Lane, a multi-level project that would permit roughly 600 square feet of as-built additions and construct an additional 557 square feet of new area to a 4,749-square-foot, three-story residence. The proposal also includes replacement of windows and doors, a new pool and spa, and expanded covered patios; the project’s guideline floor-to-area ratio (FAR) would be about 94% if certain basement area reductions are accepted by staff.
Why it matters: The property sits on a steep, 2.5-acre hillside with existing retaining walls and a complex array of grades. The project was last seen by the board in October 2024. Staff told the board that the applicant is pursuing an FAR reduction related to basement area; staff has asked for FAR-elevation exhibits to confirm eligibility.
Project presentation and board concerns: The design team described a reduced-scope submission from earlier hearings, removing heavier, chateau-style details and simplifying the exterior to plaster walls, darker trim and limestone sills. The applicant said the intent is to remove failing exterior wood trim, replace windows with Fleetwood-style dark-anodized frames, level certain deck areas, repair failing railroad-tie retaining walls and create a new pool terrace on the west side of the house.
Board members generally agreed the submittal was a marked improvement from the prior version but asked for additional clarifications before final approval. Specific requests included: a more cohesive approach to window and door proportions and mullion patterns so openings have a consistent rhythm; a study showing sections of the retaining walls and pool-edge walls to demonstrate how the new terrace and pool relate to steep existing grades; a landscaping plan to soften the large retaining faces; and options for subtle architectural detailing at the chimney and other roof intersections. Several members noted the existing roof and rafter/corbel elements must be respected because the project cannot change roof forms under current zoning.
Action: The board moved and approved an indefinite continuance back to the Single Family Design Board with comments. The motion recorded that the board finds the revised direction to be an improvement and supported continuing the simplified material direction, but requested the applicant provide detailed window/door consistency studies, retaining-wall sections and a revised landscape plan to soften the pool and wall edges. The board also suggested a darker plaster or contrasting finish for the retaining walls and requested that the applicant return with material samples. The motion passed unanimously (Vice Chair Sherry — yes; Board member Moslihy — yes; Board member Richards — yes).
Ending: The applicant will return with the requested sections, material samples and a planting plan that softens the retaining walls; the item will be reheard by the Single Family Design Board before proceeding to staff-level final approval.
