Carmel-by-the-Sea HRB adopts recommendation for downtown storefront design (PR 25064)

The Carmel-by-the-Sea Historic Resources Board voted unanimously to adopt a resolution recommending that staff find PR 25064, a Track 1 design review for a non-historic property in the Downtown Conservation District, consistent with the district—s established design context.

Staff member Jacob told the board the application was complete and that the review focused on whether the floor-area ratio would increase and whether the proposed development was consistent with the conservation district—s design context. "I'm recommending that the HRB recommend that it meets the established design context of the Downtown Conservation District," Jacob said.

Jacob presented photographs of the current storefronts and drawings of the proposed storefronts. He said the design includes recessed storefront portions required by the plaza guidelines, bay-window elements within allowed proportions, painted aluminum trim and travertine stone cladding on exterior surfaces. Signage plans call for individually cut letters roughly 4 inches tall across a total width of about 6 feet 9 inches, which Jacob said is approximately 2 square feet and therefore within the 6-square-foot maximum for wall-mounted signs. The applicant considered individual lighting for letters but ultimately decided on no exterior sign lighting; Jacob said staff worked with the applicant to reduce lighting to meet plaza rules.

Jacob told the board that, under the review sequence for Track 1 projects, the board's recommendation will guide staff's final administrative decision: after the HRB recommendation, staff will approve or deny the application based on conformance with the Downtown Conservation District design guidelines and any minor changes required prior to final issuance.

No member of the public spoke during the hearing, and no ownership representative offered a statement when asked. Board members commented favorably on the design. A motion to adopt the resolution as written by staff passed with recorded affirmative votes from Board Member Dyer, Board Member Goodhue, Board Member Gualtieri, Board Member Pomeroy and Chair Cromann.

Staff noted additional minor design adjustments would be resolved before staff issues the final approval. The board also heard administrative announcements that included upcoming joint and budget meetings and that Ken Wysocki started as the city—s new public works director. The board's next regular meeting was listed as June 16.