Board continues 251 La Marina concept, asks team to reduce perceived bulk and refine details

The Single Family Design Board on July 27 continued a concept review for a proposed two‑story home at 251 La Marina after hearing a presentation and neighborhood correspondence. Architect Laura Hudson Bernard said the proposal is for a 2,061 sq ft two‑story house with an attached 492 sq ft garage, a 332 sq ft junior accessory dwelling unit and an anticipated 928 sq ft basement; she told the board the project’s FAR is 94% and that the design team has coordinated with adjacent neighbors to preserve privacy. "This project is located at 251 La Marina," Bernard said, describing the site's hedges, views and steps taken to mitigate massing near neighbors.

Board members focused on street‑facing massing, the relationship of the office over the JADU and front‑facing details. One member asked why the garage opening appeared deeply recessed; the architect said the shadow line contributes "gravitas" to the facade. Staff clarified that the JADU is not counted in FAR calculations for this project and that, because the project remains under 100% FAR, full‑level story poles are not automatically required — though the board retains the option to request them. The board unanimously approved a motion to continue the item indefinitely with directions to study thinner apparent wall depths at the garage, pull back or recess the JADU/office massing to reduce perceived bulk, refine roof and window head details, check breathing room around windows and doors, and prepare any renderings or other materials necessary for the next hearing. The motion passed by roll call.