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Burlingame planners approve modest revisions to 1033 Cortez Avenue
Summary
The Burlingame Planning Commission approved design revisions to a previously authorized single‑family dwelling and detached ADU at 1033 Cortez Avenue, including adjusted window sizes, revised trim and a slight increase in lot coverage; the decision is appealable to City Council for 10 days.
The Burlingame Planning Commission on Oct. 14 approved modest revisions to a previously permitted residence and detached accessory dwelling unit at 1033 Cortez Avenue.
Staff told the commission the original project was approved on Nov. 12, 2024, and that a building permit was issued Aug. 8, 2025. The proposed changes include revised window trim, adjustments to several window and door sizes, reconfiguration of rear-deck stairs and a minor increase in lot coverage. "The original project was approved by the planning commission on 11/12/2024," staff said during the presentation.
The commission focused on window detailing. One member asked whether the windows would be "true simulated divided light" with exterior mullions or merely simulated divided light lacking exterior mullions. Staff explained the technical difference — spacer bars between panes versus exterior mullions — and said conditions of approval can be revised to ensure the applicant provides exterior grids and spacer bars as intended. "I can revise that in the conditions of approval as well to make sure that it happens," staff said.
Elaine Lee, the project's architect, told commissioners that the project has a new owner and that most changes were requested to the floor plan and detailing, including added lintels and a slightly larger stairwell window on the left side that is separated from the nearest neighbor by a creek. "I'm Elaine Lee. I'm the architect for the project," she said.
Commissioners who reviewed the revised elevations described them as clear and consistent with the originally approved design. Commissioner Richard Seay moved to approve the project "as per the conditions of the staff report and per the resolutions," and the motion passed on a 5–0 roll-call vote. The chair noted the Planning Commission's action is appealable to the City Council within 10 days and that appeals must be filed in writing with an appeal fee of $924.
The commission's approval completes local review unless the action is appealed to the City Council within the statutory window.
