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Planning Commission continues Citibank facade and sign review, asks applicant to soften palette and reconsider sign size
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Summary
The Planning Commission continued review of an architectural control and sign proposal for 1215 El Camino Real (Citibank tenant improvement), directing the applicant to soften the building palette, reduce harsh lighting, and reconsider a request for 24‑inch lettering in favor of meeting the 18‑inch guideline unless a strong rationale is provided.
The Menlo Park Planning Commission on March 23 continued action on an architectural control and sign review for tenant improvements to 1215 El Camino Real (a former First Republic Bank building, proposed for Citibank). Commissioners expressed concern about the building's bright white/glazed brick appearance, nighttime illumination and a requested increase in sign letter height to 24 inches.
Amal Kirmi, representing the applicant, and architect Jeff Schmier described the project as a façade refresh with no change to building massing or footprint and said most work is a tenant improvement. Schmier said the design retains the existing building massing and includes interior work, storefront reconfiguration, accessibility improvements and minor site work.
Commissioners probed lighting and nighttime operation: Schmier said the branch would operate until about 6 p.m., with a 24‑hour ATM vestibule illuminated for security after hours. On signs, the applicant said the 24‑inch measurement reflected the arc plus letters and that prior discussions with staff included the possibility of 18 inches; the team nevertheless requested the larger size for visibility along El Camino Real.
Several commissioners, citing downtown character, preferred a softer palette and urged modest signage consistent with city guidelines. Commissioner Ferrick and others recommended a continuance so the applicant could return with revised renderings that address color, reduced glare, and sign scale. The commission voted to continue the item with guidance that the design be softened and that the applicant adhere to sign size guidelines unless a clear rationale for larger letters is provided. Staff recommended continuing without a date certain to allow the applicant and staff to refine materials and avoid re‑noticing issues.
Next steps: the applicant will refine materials and lighting details and return for a future hearing.
