Planning Commission Agenda and Packet 2021 06 24

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Planning Commission Staff Report June 24, 2021 G15. Locate parking such that it will be subordinate to other site features. 1) An on -site parking area should be located inside or behind a building, where its visual impacts will be minimized. The addition of the residential buildings will bring the property into compliance with this policy by screening the majority of parking. G20. New construction should appear similar in mass and scale to structures found traditionally in the area. This policy specifically notes that the height of a "new building should be compatible with existing buildings in the area and especially with those structures that are immediately adjacent to a project." The proposed new row homes at 36' in height would be similar in height to other nearby developments, including the following: - 950 Spruce Office - 28' with Architectural Projections up to 30' in Height - Louisville Public Library (951 Spruce) - 36' in Height - 726 Front Office - 34' in Height Staff does note that the new row homes and would be much taller than the single -story structures immediately to the south at 721 Front Street, but overall finds the building height to be compatible with the character of surrounding development. Building height in the Core Area of Downtown may be allowed up to 45' in height. G21. A larger building may be divided into "modules" that reflect the traditional scale of construction. 1) If a larger building is divided into multiple "modules," these should be expressed three -dimensionally, by having significant architectural changes, through -out the entire building. A single form should remain the dominant element, such that the overall mass does not become too fragmented. (See also Guideline C5 on page 35.) 2) Consider stepping down the mass of larger buildings to minimize the perceived scale at the street. The primary form and material at the base of the building is brick, but includes articulation with the wood siding, recessed entries and patios at the ground floor, the second story deck and stepped back third story. Staff finds this policy is met with the design. G24. New interpretations of traditional building styles are encouraged 1) A new design that draws upon the fundamental similarities among traditional buildings in the community without copying them is preferred. This will allow them to be seen as products of their own time yet compatible with their older neighbors. 11 13