Design panel gives preliminary backing to Sora Sora Nordic Baths while flagging parking, sight-line and ADA issues

Developers presented a pre-application for Sora Sora Nordic Baths on June 24, seeking preliminary input on site layout, materials and a requested rear setback reduction from 20 ft to 6 ft (driven by an existing SDG&E easement). The project proposes modular buildings, two stainless‑steel plunge pools, custom saunas clad in Thermory/Lunawood, and a central planted courtyard.

Chris, the civil engineer and project operator, said the modular pods are fabricated offsite and the proposal aims to create a "surfy, natural" palette for the surf zone using board‑formed concrete, corten steel accents, breezeblock and thermally modified wood. He said pools are premium stainless‑steel vessels with high turnover filtration and that the modular saunas are being built under state inspection at an offsite factory.

Staff and DRC members supported the conceptual design and the surf‑zone material approach but raised several site constraints to resolve prior to formal application: engineering flagged sight-line and backup-distance concerns related to the proposed screening walls and curb cuts; building staff noted ADA circulation should be contained within the property (a lift or platform was suggested); OCFA requires property-line-to-structure distances to be clearly shown on the site plan; and stormwater/drainage details need engineering review because of proposed water features. A subcommittee member said the rear setback encroachment appeared reasonable given existing grades and the low profile of proposed buildings and signaled conditional support for the exception if technical concerns are addressed.

The applicants were encouraged to coordinate with engineering, building and fire staff, to revise the screening/wall details to avoid sight-line problems (lower walls, mesh or planting alternatives were suggested), and to provide clearer ADA/lift options and OCFA callouts before formal submittal.