Planning commission approves redesigned addition at 1812 Castanada Drive

The Burlingame Planning Commission on Sept. 8 approved a major design-review application for an addition at 1812 Castanada Drive, finding the revised plans addressed prior design-review comments and met residential design guidelines.

Staff told the commission the project proposes a first-floor addition at the front of the house and a new second story with a stated total floor area of about 3,140 square feet; staff noted the site is in the city’s hillside overlay district, which protects distant views, and recommended approval with 13 conditions. A design-review consultant attached to the staff report also supported approval.

Applicant Marad Diner said the team had “listened to the comments” from the commission and worked with a designer to make revisions. Designer Yuri described the project as stepping back the second floor, using horizontal wood siding and aluminum-clad windows, and keeping balcony and plate heights proportional to neighboring homes to reduce visual impact.

Commissioners asked whether a planting and irrigation plan was included; staff said irrigation is often verified during the building-permit review if it was not included in the entitlement submittal and that plan-check requirements have changed over the years. After discussion, Commissioner Loenthal moved to approve the project per staff findings; Commissioner Fuff seconded. The roll-call vote recorded four yes votes, and the motion passed 4–0.

The commission’s approval is appealable to the city council within 10 days; staff noted appeals must be filed in writing with a $924 fee that covers noticing costs.