Commission approves garage portion of project at 138 Urban Hill Road, continues porch work for redesign

The commission approved the architectural‑review application for the garage and associated mudroom at 138 Burbank Hill (Urban Hill) Road while continuing review of a small front porch and associated entrance remodel to a future hearing.

The applicant, who identified himself as an architect and property owner, presented a phased plan: an angled attached garage and small mudroom that respond to site constraints and protect a large redwood tree. "I am an architect. I've been working almost 50 years," the applicant told the commission, explaining that the garage was angled to avoid impacting tree roots and to improve access. He said the existing house has been heavily altered over time and that the proposal was intended to complete work started in prior phases.

Several public commenters urged retention of a distinctive small front porch that contributes to neighborhood character. Staff and the architect discussed a phased approach in which the commission could approve the garage portion now and the porch later once the applicant submits additional drawings and photos. One commissioner recused himself from the hearing because of proximity to the property.

A motion to approve only the garage portion, with the porch/design details continued to a future meeting and with guidance that the applicant return with photos and additional elevations, was made and seconded and the motion passed. Commissioners asked the applicant to provide more detailed drawings and, where feasible, photos to help the public and the commission evaluate the porch proposal at the next hearing.

The approval authorizes the garage work to proceed to permit stage; the porch and front‑entry work will be considered at a later date when the applicant returns with supplemental materials.