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Small courtyard duplexes proposed on Figaro offer workforce housing but neighbors seek trash, entry and driveway clarifications
Summary
A five‑duplex AUD (average‑unit‑density) project on W. Figaro proposes 10 small, transit‑adjacent units arranged around a common courtyard; the board liked the concept but asked the applicant to refine the trash/bike layout, gate location and front elevation detailing and to work with other agencies on any widened driveway.
The Architectural Board of Review reviewed a compact workforce housing proposal for 219 West Figaro Street on May 26. Applicants Tom Oxner and architect Liz Hughes described a five‑duplex configuration (10 small studio/loft units) designed under the city’s Average Unit Density program to provide affordable, transit‑adjacent housing.
The applicant emphasized a garden‑apartment character with a central courtyard, covered bike storage, a small barbecue/lawn amenity and compact interior units aimed at first‑time workforce tenants. Because the lot and neighboring easements constrain vehicular access, the design minimizes paved areas and uses shared access rather than providing on‑site parking (the AUD rules in the central business district waive parking requirements).
One nearby resident expressed concern about driveway access and potential spillover to narrow neighborhood streets. Board members generally supported the courtyard scheme but asked for improved front‑elevation detailing to better fit the neighborhood context, a reconfiguration of the trash and bike enclosures so they do not pinch pedestrian circulation, and a clearer plan for how any widened driveway or service area would be signed/landscaped so it does not become an informal parking area.
The board continued the item to allow the team to adjust the gate location, refine trash/bike layouts and present a materials board and revised front‑elevation detailing. The board urged the applicant to coordinate with transportation and fire agencies about acceptable pavement/driveway treatments.
