Duarte City Council
May 26, 2026

CITY OF DUARTE OBJECTIVE DESIGN STANDARDS 55
Appendix E: SGVCOG Regional Objective Design Standards Research Memorandum Memo of ODS | The Arroyo Group
SGV COG Objective Design Standards
25 September 2025

EXHIBIT B

MEMORANDUM OF OBJECTIVE DESIGN STANDARDS RESEARCH
P25056 | SGV COG Objective Design Standards | San Gabriel Valley ONYX Architects was contracted as a consultant to The Arroyo Group to assist with the development of a Regional Objective Design Standard (ODS) applicable to the San Gabriel Valley. In an effort to complete Task 2 – Research and Outlines, under the list of SGVCOG & The Arroyo Group approved deliverables and outlined tasks, ONYX has prepared this memorandum that list specific observations of successful and unsuccessful ODS documents based on its effectiveness in implementation to a city or community.

Following is a summary and/or list of findings from ONYX’s experience and research of successful or unsuccessful regional zoning approaches and effective ODS implementation in other cities.

COUNTY OF SAN FRANCISCO - ODS
Latest draft completed on May 30, 2024, this document starts with the California State law that requires housing projects subject to the Housing Accountability Act (HAA) to be reviewed with design criteria under the definition of Objective Standards. This ODS considers immediate context in reviewing the appropriateness of a proposed development’s siting, size, programing and design.

Successful aspects:
• Covers a range of scales – site design, building massing, and architecture. • Ensures development reflects key features of a walkable urban environment • Provides standards that address issues related to a new building’s relationship to its existing context • Provides architectural standards that are focused on creating dimension, texture, and character critical for creating an engaging pedestrian friendly environment
• Establishes a clear structure for each “standard”, which each standards is listed & described, gives allencompassing rationale, and illustrations that further describe its application. • Provides options for different block confirmations / sizes, which is clearly distinguished by measurable sizes. • Identifies certain districts / communities where standards are applicable. • References code compliance as needed.
• Provides a mix of graphics, diagrams, and photograph illustrations Unsuccessful aspects:
• Does not capture unique site conditions, such as terrain or easements, or odd shaped lots • Not enough graphics to capture each ‘standard’.
• Graphics are too detailed and do not highlight the key aspects of the standard / design intent • Does not provide enough alternatives, for example building mass, standard states ‘when building abuts the side property line of a residential property, the first 10 lateral feet of the new building shall be no taller then the height of the adjacent structure.” This standard is ambiguous, particularly regarding how height is measured and whether features such as penthouses, parapets, or railing are included. Additionally, the graphics provided only depict flat roofs, offering limited applicability to different building types. • Does not guide standards to be located or emphasized in certain locations. For instance, where modulation is required, focus modulation at primary entries or openings, if in series distribute evenly throughout the building façade, etc.
• Missing a definitions page for architectural elements / features. Graphics are not enough.

CITY OF DUARTE OBJECTIVE DESIGN STANDARDS 56
Appendix E: SGVCOG Regional Objective Design Standards Research Memorandum

CITY OF DEL MAR - ODS
The latest draft completed on September 2024, this document starts with the California State law that requires housing project subject to the Housing Accountability Act (HAA) to be reviewed with design criteria under the definition of Objective Standards. It also discusses its intent of protecting the City’s unique residential seaside community.

Successful aspects:
• Covers a range of scales – site planning and design, building design, and ground-floor design. • Provides a definitions section.
• Provides administrative exceptions with detailed explanation • Establishes a clear structure for each “standard”, which each standard is listed & described, gives allencompassing rationale, and illustrations that further describe its application. • Provides options of site and building features to choose from as it relates to a standard • Clearly labels each illustration as it relates to each standard • Illustrations are clear and highlight each standard with consistent graphics. This helps both applicant’s and city staff understand each design standard
• Includes photos of successful project in the city which is in compliance to one or multiple standards. • Provide an asterisk to each standard, when non-applicable to a certain district or neighborhood. • Overall, formant, font, layout, and graphics are consistent, not-overpowering, and legable.

Unsuccessful aspects:
• Rational is over simplified and not connected to all sub-categories / standards. • Does not provide enough information on building finishes, materials, or color as it relates to building type or architectural style.
• Overall, the ODS could use a section that describes districts or neighborhoods in question. This will need to be cross-referenced with current city maps.
• Definitions could use graphics to help understand.

CITY OF DUARTE OBJECTIVE DESIGN STANDARDS 57
Appendix E: SGVCOG Regional Objective Design Standards Research Memorandum

CITY OF DUARTE OBJECTIVE DESIGN STANDARDS 58
Appendix E: SGVCOG Regional Objective Design Standards Research Memorandum Memo of ODS | The Arroyo Group
SGV COG Objective Design Standards
9 September 2025

CITY OF ORANGE - ODS
The latest draft completed on September 2024, this document starts with the California State law that requires housing project subject to the Housing Accountability Act (HAA) to be reviewed with design criteria under the definition of Objective Standards. It also clarifies that the standards may also be implemented as a replacement or to add supplemental detail specific existing standards, which is what the SGVCOG is expecting.

Successful aspects:
• Covers a range of scales – site planning and operations, form & scale, frontage, and open space. • Provides information about instance of conflict between standards and the City’s Municipal Code. • Clarifies when the document provides options for the City as opposed to implementing multiple together. • Each standard has a reference number / label to the city’s municipal code. • Standards includes a list of options to pick from, such as “at least three” • Address Easements, Emergency Vehicle Circulation, and other special case situations • Provides a detailed glossary / definitions
• Illustration are clear and highlight each standard. This helps both applicant’s and city staff understand each design standard.
• Overall, format, font, layout, and graphics are consistent, not-overpowering, and legable.

Unsuccessful aspects:
• Does not provide enough graphics for many standards
• Rational could be focused on a singular design aspect. Too over-arching • Overall, the ODS could use a section that describes districts or neighborhoods in question. This will need to be cross-referenced with current city maps.
• Definitions could use graphics to help understand.

CITY OF DUARTE OBJECTIVE DESIGN STANDARDS 59
Appendix E: SGVCOG Regional Objective Design Standards Research Memorandum

CITY OF SANTA BARBARA - ODS
The latest effective as of March 27, 2025, this document starts with the California State law that requires housing project subject to the Housing Accountability Act (HAA) to be reviewed with design criteria under the definition of Objective Standards. It provides clear goals and relationship to General Plan.

Successful aspects:
• It identifies zones/districts/neighborhood by table and key map • Covers a range of scales – site design, building types, frontages, and architectural design • Provides an exceptions section
• Provides a definitions section
• Provides architectural style section that relates to the City’s Municipal Code. • The overall document is formatted in a table list format with keynotes that refer to graphics • Very detailed description of standards and definitions • Provides photo examples based on building typology and multiple photos • Provides elements of different architectural styles and character defining features.

Unsuccessful aspects:
• Keynotes are too similar and hard to follow
• Text is very code format and can be overwhelming

CITY OF DUARTE OBJECTIVE DESIGN STANDARDS 60
Appendix E: SGVCOG Regional Objective Design Standards Research Memorandum

CITY OF DUARTE OBJECTIVE DESIGN STANDARDS 61
Appendix E: SGVCOG Regional Objective Design Standards Research Memorandum COUNTY OF SAN LUIS OBISPO – DESIGN GUIDELINES
The City of San Luis Obispo provides design guidelines that consist of design objectives, guidelines, and examples that retain and enhance the unique character of the County. This document is old, but upholds the diverse and unique qualities of village and urban areas.

Successful aspects:
• Focuses on specific centers, districts, downtowns, and development by use • Detailed guidelines with measurable goals and clear examples • Relates to other city documents for each guideline
• Very detailed definitions / glossary
Unsuccessful aspects:
• Outdated, so does not account for or promote certain uses or typologies • Graphics may be misguiding due to over generalizing the design intent / goal CITY OF TORRANCE – DESIGN GUIDELINES
The City of Torrance provides a quick-guide or reference to common Architectural styles, Architectural terms, and rehabilitation of historic buildings in the city: Architectural Design Guidelines | City of Torrance. This can be a example of a simple layout for descriptive architectural styles.

Successful aspects:
• Covers the main character defining features of each architectural style in 2 pages or less. • Graphics are consistent with each other
Unsuccessful aspects:
• Photo illustrations are very traditional and doesn’t account for new construction, where certain elements or features can be difficult to build but possible. Just needs more modern examples.

SCAG Objective Design Standards
In 2022-2023, the Southern California Association of Governments (SCAG) initiated a project to develop a common set of objective design standards that could then be tailored to the communities of Santa Monica, South Pasadena, Montebello and Santa Fe Springs. The standards were simple in nature and able to be inserted into the zoning code.

However, ultimately, the needs of each community were very different, leading to limited utilization. Santa Fe Springs, which was seeking to create a new downtown, adopted the objective standards into its zoning code. However, in South Pasadena, the Planning Commission and community members felt that the standards did not adequately take into account that city’s unique needs. In Santa Monica, the draft was reduced to a limited set of standards and ultimately not adopted. Montebello has not adopted its standards either. The project is exposes the conundrum of regional design standard efforts; community character and regulatory structure can be very different in different jurisdictions, leading to very different design standard needs. Projects either respond by becoming more focused on the particular jurisdictions involved and crafting standards for their unique needs, or abstracting the process into mere recommendations rather than implementable standards.

Strengths:
• Simple, clear diagrams
• Contains standards about unique topics, such as horizontal elements, enhancement of blank walls, security bars
• Simplified frontage regulations
• Menus of choices for modulation and façade composition Weaknesses:
• Difficult to formulate a correct approach to some topics (for example, streetwall and massing) given the great diversity in built environment among the four cities
• No photographic examples
• No rationale provided for standards
San Joaquin Valley Objective Design Standards Guidebook The Fresno Council of Governments led an effort to create a guidebook that could serve the entire San Joaquin, or Central, Valley. The background information is a good resource to help guide the structuring and utilization of Objective Design Standards.

Strengths:
• Includes a summary of legal considerations, including the difference between HAA (streamlined approval process) and SB35 (ministerial approval process).
• Gives good guidance as a regional document to local jurisdictions about the various methods of constructing objective design standards, and the considerations between these methods. • Describes best practices which include the use of guidelines or intent statements to clarify the purpose and goal of statements, and allow flexibility
• Describes different approval processes for projects which meet standards, which meet the intent but not letter of the standards, or which do not meet the standards
Weaknesses:
• Community character is less relevant to San Gabriel Valley • Does not present actual recommended objective design standards

CITY OF DUARTE OBJECTIVE DESIGN STANDARDS 62
Appendix E: SGVCOG Regional Objective Design Standards Research Memorandum Western Riverside Council of Governments Objective Design Standards Toolkit This toolkit was prepared in 2022; some cities later adapted and adopted it (e.g. Temecula). A chapter on landscape standards is particularly noteworthy.

Strengths:
• Includes landscape standards
• Graphics show multiple standards at once
• Provides thorough common open space standards
Weaknesses:
• Some standards are more appropriate to large, master-planned type projects more common in Riverside County
ABAG Objective Design Standards Handbook
This is a well-written, beautifully prepared guidebook for residential and mixed-use projects in the San Francisco Bay Area. The guidebook approaches the biggest issues in objective design standards holistically, with perspectives discussing the economic, design and community planning considerations of using such tools as building types, frontage types, and building modulation standards. It will be a useful resource when evaluating different design standards for the San Gabriel Valley.

Strengths:
• Provides a lot of explanation around the recommended standards, and complements regulatory diagrams with recommended and not recommended photographic examples
• Conducted interviews with developers to determine the impact of different types of objective design standards on economic feasibility
• Standards of particular interest include a more comprehensive list of frontage types, roof standards, and block and open space standards for large sites
• Attempts to classify the Bay Area into PlaceTypes where different standards will apply Weaknesses:
• Standards and graphics are adapted from form-based codes, which may be more difficult to map on to cities’ existing standards
• Mostly focused on high-density development
• Place Type application may be difficult in different jurisdictions •
• Thorough common open space standards (may be more appropriate to masterplanned type developments) ABAG
• Notes issues with other City/County departments
• Provides a matrix of PlaceTypes and which categories of standards are relevant where
• Provides a lot of explanation around the recommended standards, and recommended and not recommended examples
• Fuller list of frontage types
• Adjacency standards may be too restrictive
• Implementing the PlaceType distinctions may be difficult in different jurisdictions • Form-based code type graphics, and many form-based code type standards • Roof standards
• Block and open space standards for large sites
• Conducted interviews with developers to determine the impact of different types of objective design standards on economic feasibility
Memo of ODS | The Arroyo Group SGV
COG Objective Design Standards
25 September 2025
1 EXHIBIT C

CITY OF DUARTE OBJECTIVE DESIGN STANDARDS 63
Appendix E: SGVCOG Regional Objective Design Standards Research Memorandum

CITY OF DUARTE OBJECTIVE DESIGN STANDARDS 64
Appendix E: SGVCOG Regional Objective Design Standards Research Memorandum

CITY OF DUARTE OBJECTIVE DESIGN STANDARDS 65
Appendix E: SGVCOG Regional Objective Design Standards Research Memorandum

CITY OF DUARTE OBJECTIVE DESIGN STANDARDS 66
Appendix E: SGVCOG Regional Objective Design Standards Research Memorandum Memo of ODS | The Arroyo Group SGV
COG Objective Design Standards
25 September 2025
1 EXHIBIT D
2 ODS FIELDWORK CHECKLIST
The intention of this document is to capture prevalent and community defining architectural features to align with upcoming design standards.

Attach photos for important features.

District
Main St (area around Garfield and just west of garfield ) City: Alhambra
Immediate Observations Approximate Age of Building Improvements / Renovations Overall Condition Historical Relevance 1920's - 1950's Renovations made to many/
façade improvements Overall Good / Fair yes
Height Number of Stories Estimated Height
Older Buildings 1-2 15'-20'
Setbacks Front Side Side Rear
0' 0' 0' 0'
Building Form Roof Geometry Overall Geometry Building Breaks Flat Boxy no/ 1 passthrough
Architectural Style Clearly Discernible Style Primary Features Associated With Style American Commercial
flat roofs, brick, storefront
windows, tight commercial
spaces
Building Type Typology
Single story commercial
Defining Characteristics Primary Street Facing Features Store front windows, recessed
entry, corner entry, awnings,
Prominent commercial signage
Fenestration and Openings Doors Windows Other Openings
Street Facing, Recesseced, glass
storefront doors Large store front windows not clear
Material Wall Color Roof Hardscape
Brick/ Stucco Multi earth tones, shades of
beige, brick tar and gravel Sidewalk, Cement planters
Landscape Features Primary Features Hardscape Features Softscape Features Planters both built in and pots,
palm trees material change/ color plants, flowers, trees (fair amount) Primary Elevation Primary Features Articulation Frontage Type Other Signage, parapets, awnings,
brick/stucco façades
Minimal variations in storefront
spacing, signage scale, and
material changes
Shopfront/forecourt walkable, car-oriented, active
commercial/dining
General Notes:

CITY OF DUARTE OBJECTIVE DESIGN STANDARDS 67
Appendix E: SGVCOG Regional Objective Design Standards Research Memorandum 3 ODS FIELDWORK CHECKLIST
The intention of this document is to capture prevalent and community defining architectural features to align with upcoming design standards.

Attach photos for important features.

District
Main St
City: Alhambra
Immediate Observations Approximate Age of Building Improvements / Renovations Overall Condition Historical Relevance 2000's Well Maintained Good / Fair No
Height Number of Stories Estimated Height
Newer Buildings 1-5 20'-60'
Setbacks Front Side Side Rear
0' 0' 0' 0'
Building Form Roof Geometry Overall Geometry Building Breaks Varied Flat/ Gable Towers
Rectangular geometretrical
language, some buildings have
geometry interupted by massing
components or modular systems
no
Architectural Style Clearly Discernible Style Primary Features Associated With Style Spanish Colonial Revival, Art
Deco, American Commercial
Arches, Clay tile roofs, stucco
walls
flat roofs, brick, large storefront
windows
Building Type Typology
Podium, Single
Defining Characteristics Primary Street Facing Features Ground Floor Retail, Large Store
front windows, recessed entry,
corner entry, awnings, Prominent
commercial signage
Fenestration and Openings Doors Windows Other Openings
Street Facing, Recesseced,
Corner Entries Large store front windows na
Material Wall Color Roof Hardscape
Stucco Multi earth tones, shades of
beige, brick Clay tile when visible Passthroughs though building breaks Landscape Features Primary Features Hardscape Features Softscape Features Street trees none consistent Plantings (very minimal)
Primary Elevation Primary Features Articulation Frontage Type Other Awning, Signage, balcony,
window and opening variation
Color variance on facades, plane
changes, varied heights, tower
uses, fenestration, roof line
breaks along parapets
Shopfront podium parking access from side
streets
General Notes:
4 ODS FIELDWORK CHECKLIST
The intention of this document is to capture prevalent and community defining architectural features to align with upcoming design standards.

Attach photos for important features.

District

RH ZONE
City: Alhambra
Immediate Observations Approximate Age of Building Improvements / Renovations Overall Condition Historical Relevance late 1960's–early 2000's na Fair – minor staining, aged stucco, No Height Number of Stories Estimated Height
2 stories above tuck-under
garage level. 25'
Setbacks Front Side Side Rear
Generally 10-15' 5-10' 5-10' assume 10-15'
Building Form Roof Geometry Overall Geometry Building Breaks Predominantly gable roofs
Long, narrow massings, boxt
structures
Symmetrical facades with
central driveway recesses;
repetitive architectural rhythms.

Architectural Style Clearly Discernible Style Primary Features Associated With Style Spanish Colonial
Revival–inspired,
some craftsman
Stucco walls, red tile roofs,
arched windows, balconies,
Pitched Roof/ Front Porch/
Building Type Typology
Walk-Up / Courtyard / Podium
Hybrid, residential units above
garages with central access
driveways.

Defining Characteristics Primary Street Facing Features Projecting gables, arched window
bays, recessed central driveways
with garages.

Fenestration and Openings Doors Windows Other Openings
Street Facing, neutral color
Front: multi-pane arched
windows;
Sides: rectangular sliding
Not Clear
Material Wall Color Roof Hardscape
Smooth stucco finish,
light-colored. Beiges. Red clay or concrete tiles/ Shingle Front Steps, Sloped drive entries,
curb cuts, retaining walls near
driveways.

Landscape Features Primary Features Hardscape Features Softscape Features Shrubs, Grass, Small trees,
low maintenance plants walk way rocks rocks
Primary Elevation Primary Features Articulation Frontage Type Other Gabled roof ends, recessed
entries, vegetation in front, buffer
material changes, gabled roofs,
balconies, courtyard/building
breaks for tuck under parking
Stoop/ Porch
General Notes:

CITY OF DUARTE OBJECTIVE DESIGN STANDARDS 68
Appendix E: SGVCOG Regional Objective Design Standards Research Memorandum 5 ODS FIELDWORK CHECKLIST
The intention of this document is to capture prevalent and community defining architectural features to align with upcoming design standards.

Attach photos for important features.

District
Huntington Dr
City: Duarte
Immediate Observations Approximate Age of Building Improvements / Renovations Overall Condition Historical Relevance 1950's-1980's
Partial: some repainting, modern
signage, minor repairs or
remodels
Fair: roof and façades show wear;
signage and landscaping are
maintained
City Hall?
Height Number of Stories Estimated Height
1,2 15'-20'
Setbacks Front Side Side Rear
20' 10' 10' 15'
Building Form Roof Geometry Overall Geometry Building Breaks Gable, Low pitch hip Boxy/ eculidean none to minimal
Architectural Style Clearly Discernible Style Primary Features Associated With Style Spanish Colonial Arches, Clay tile roofs, stucco
walls
Building Type Typology
Commercial, strip mall, motel
apartment
Defining Characteristics Primary Street Facing Features Spanish features, decorative
parapet, street/car oriented
commercial
Fenestration and Openings Doors Windows Other Openings
Aluminum/glass storefront,
neutral colors
Small to medium, recessed,
rectangular none observed
Material Wall Color Roof Hardscape
Stucco, Tile details Beige / Off-white Clay tile Concrete sidewalks, asphalt lots Landscape Features Primary Features Hardscape Features Softscape Features Palm trees, shrubs Concrete paths, driveways Grass patches, small hedges Minimal Primary Elevation Primary Features Articulation Frontage Type Other Recessed entries, canopy
Minimal depth or plane changes,
typical articulation coming from
overhangin pitch of roof or some
sort of parapet feature
Commercial Storefront, Parking
lots
podium parking access off main
street
General Notes:
walkable, strip mall, small-town, typical spanish style homes and commerical buildings, some ranch style/townhome 6 ODS FIELDWORK CHECKLIST
The intention of this document is to capture prevalent and community defining architectural features to align with upcoming design standards.

Attach photos for important features.

District
Esperanza Ave/Suffolk Ave
City: Sierra Madre
Immediate Observations Approximate Age of Building Improvements / Renovations Overall Condition Historical Relevance 1950's-1980's Minimal, some repainting,
possible rennovations
Fair: overall well kept, signs od
age but maintained well possible
Height Number of Stories Estimated Height
2 20'-25'
Setbacks Front Side Side Rear
15' 5' 5' not clear
Building Form Roof Geometry Overall Geometry Building Breaks Gable, Boxy/ eculidean breaks in cases for some
townhome style homes
Architectural Style Clearly Discernible Style Primary Features Associated With Style Spanish Colonial / Ranch Style Arches, Clay tile roofs, stucco walls
Brick base, shingled upper
façade, symmetrical fenestration
Building Type Typology
Apartment (2-story)/ multi-family
residential
Defining Characteristics Primary Street Facing Features Walkways/steps, street oriented
doors, windows, planting,
driveways visible, dense
evergreen screening
Fenestration and Openings Doors Windows Other Openings
Typical residential front doors
(varied windows)/ some cases
iron gate
Small to medium, sliders/double
hung none observed
Material Wall Color Roof Hardscape
Stucco, brick Beige / Off-white/ blues Clay tile/ Shingle Concrete sidewalks, Walkways, Steps, Driveways
Landscape Features Primary Features Hardscape Features Softscape Features Hedges, Trees, Lawns Concrete paths, driveways,
Steps, Walkways Lawn strips, roses, bushes
Primary Elevation Primary Features Articulation Frontage Type Other Flat façade with central entry,
raised yards, brick and material
change on façade
Minimal plane change, Some
Articulation with balconies and
gable protrutions
Stoop, Yard
General Notes:

Quiet small town feel, overall style feels like spanish and ranch style majority, others mixed in no real intent

CITY OF DUARTE OBJECTIVE DESIGN STANDARDS 69
Appendix E: SGVCOG Regional Objective Design Standards Research Memorandum Memo of ODS | The Arroyo Group
SGV COG Objective Design Standards
25 August 2025
1 EXHIBIT E
2 ODS FIELDWORK CHECKLIST
The intention of this document is to capture prevalent and community defining architectural features to align with upcoming design standards.

Attach photos for important features.

Project
116 Mclean St similar façade to 630 stoneman, simpler in detail as far as projections and greening City: Alhambra
Immediate Observations Approximate Age of Building Improvements / Renovations Overall Condition Historical Relevance 2000's maintained no singificant
changed noticed
Good, Maintained façade and
landscaping No
Height Number of Stories Estimated Height
2 25'-30'
Setbacks Front Side Side Rear
20' 10' 10' 10'
Building Form Roof Geometry Overall Geometry Building Breaks Gable Boxy between homes
Architectural Style Clearly Discernible Style Primary Features Associated With Style Spanish Red clay roof tiles, arched
entries, stucco and stone veneer
Building Type Typology
Townhouse
Defining Characteristics Primary Street Facing Features entry stoop projection, gables,
landscaped walkways,
symmetrical units
Fenestration and Openings Doors Windows Other Openings
Street facing arched dark wood,
decorative glass
multi pane, recessed
symmetriccal not clear
Material Wall Color Roof Hardscape
Stucco with stone veneer Warm beige with earth tone Clay Tile Concrete drive, steps, retaining walls, gate
Landscape Features Primary Features Hardscape Features Softscape Features Shrubs, hedges, trees Walkways/ steps, planters Flower beds, low hedges, ground cover wood chips
Primary Elevation Primary Features Articulation Frontage Type Other Arched entries, symmetrical
windows, tile rooflines
Plane changes, use of recess and
projection in the vertical elements Stoop 1/2 subterranean parking access off main street
Strengths:

Appropriate openings for the Spanish architectural style Weaknesses:

High planters/landscaping percentage reducing usability,Lacking in ornamentation or detail, e.g. wrought iron,Position of the open space is a little too open to the street; could have recessed entry, trellis element, or more enclosed with buildings. Lack of privacy.

Evaluation:

CITY OF DUARTE OBJECTIVE DESIGN STANDARDS 70
Appendix E: SGVCOG Regional Objective Design Standards Research Memorandum 3 ODS FIELDWORK CHECKLIST
The intention of this document is to capture prevalent and community defining architectural features to align with upcoming design standards.

Attach photos for important features.

Project
102 Mclean St
City: Alhambra
Immediate Observations Approximate Age of Building Improvements / Renovations Overall Condition Historical Relevance 2000's New/ well maintained Good / well maintained No
Height Number of Stories Estimated Height
2 25'
Setbacks Front Side Side Rear
10' 5-10' 5-10' 5'-10'
Building Form Roof Geometry Overall Geometry Building Breaks Gable
Rectilinear geometrical language,
repeating elements, rectangular
blocks with linear moduluation.
between homes
Architectural Style Clearly Discernible Style Primary Features Associated With Style Craftsman
Pitched Roof/ Front Porch/
Tapered Columns/ Lap Siding
Building Type Typology
Townhouse
Defining Characteristics Primary Street Facing Features Porches/ gables/ window,
columns/ walkway
Fenestration and Openings Doors Windows Other Openings
Street Facing, neutral color multi pane, recessed
symmetriccal not clear
Material Wall Color Roof Hardscape
Lap Siding Shades of beige Shingle Front Steps, stone veneer Landscape Features Primary Features Hardscape Features Softscape Features Shrubs, hedges material change/ color Flower beds, low hedges, ground cover wood chips
Primary Elevation Primary Features Articulation Frontage Type Other Gable details, columns stone
veneer, almost arcade like porch
windows and door façade over
very symmetrical and organized
Upper floors stepped back from
façade, Plane changes, varied
heights, tower use, fenstration
Porch/ Stoop 1/2 subterranean parking access
off main street
Strengths:

Clear Craftsman style, second level pop-outs, exposed gable beams, detailed gable transitions, tapered porch posts, brick piers with caps, white corner trim, consistent window and corner detailing, subterranean parking, driveway median softens apron, landscape buffer at patios Weaknesses:

Shallow or faux porches lacking weather protection, unactivated center courtyard, faux porches not functional, 6x6 or 8x8 planters (underutilized) Evaluation:
4 ODS FIELDWORK CHECKLIST
The intention of this document is to capture prevalent and community defining architectural features to align with upcoming design standards.

Attach photos for important features.

Project
1419 Benito Ave
City: Alhambra
Immediate Observations Approximate Age of Building Improvements / Renovations Overall Condition Historical Relevance 2010's New Development Good No
Height Number of Stories Estimated Height
3 35'-40'
Setbacks Front Side Side Rear
15' 5-10' 5-10' 10'
Building Form Roof Geometry Overall Geometry Building Breaks Gable, hipped Boxy/ Vertical
Recessed entries and balconies
at each level; façade steps back
at upper floors
Architectural Style Clearly Discernible Style Primary Features Associated With Style Contemporary spanish
Stucco, clay tile accents, arched
entries, iron balcony railings,
stone veneer
Building Type Typology
Walk-up, Townhouse/ multifamily
Defining Characteristics Primary Street Facing Features Balconies, arched recessed
entries, alternating materials
(stucco & stone), small private
patios
Fenestration and Openings Doors Windows Other Openings
Street-facing, solid, earth-tone,
recessed
Flush and recessed, whiteframed, double-hung & slidingRecessed balconies, vent openings
Material Wall Color Roof Hardscape
Stucco and stone veneer cladding Beige, tan, natural stone Clay tile Walkways, entry steps, raised planters
Landscape Features Primary Features Hardscape Features Softscape Features Small trees, structured hedges Concrete walkways, raised walls Grass, low shrubsm, low maintenance planting
Primary Elevation Primary Features Articulation Frontage Type Other Covered balconies, arched
entries, stone/stucco contrast
Varied planes, recessed and
protruding elements, textured
materials
Porch, yard, balcony Low garden walls, separated unit
entries, no visible utility elements
Evaluation:

Strengths:

Sufficient building modulation, shed roof at primary entry with arched opening, decorative ironwork and awnings compatible with Spanish style, consistent use of Spanish elements like tile vents, arched openings, single-leaf wood entry door Weaknesses:
very repetitive with minimal variation across 900 ft block, no public access or breaks along frontage, scattered and disjointed layout, weak corner definition, ineffective third-story stepback, lacks base/middle/top organization, repetitive square modules create monotonous rhythm, heavy and overwhelming cinder block and split-face walls, no clear frontage for unit entries, oversized cornices and window details, unbalanced porch covers, inconsistent application of Spanish style, lacks asymmetry and shape variety, underscaled window shutters

CITY OF DUARTE OBJECTIVE DESIGN STANDARDS 71
Appendix E: SGVCOG Regional Objective Design Standards Research Memorandum 5 ODS FIELDWORK CHECKLIST
The intention of this document is to capture prevalent and community defining architectural features to align with upcoming design standards.

Attach photos for important features.

Project
630 Stoneman
City: Alhambra
Immediate Observations Approximate Age of Building Improvements / Renovations Overall Condition Historical Relevance 2000's New/ well maintained Good No
Height Number of Stories Estimated Height
2 25'-30'
Setbacks Front Side Side Rear
20' 5-10' 5-10' 5'-10'
Building Form Roof Geometry Overall Geometry Building Breaks Gable Boxy between homes
Architectural Style Clearly Discernible Style Primary Features Associated With Style Spanish Red clay roof tiles, arched
entries, stucco and stone veneer
Building Type Typology
Townhouse
Defining Characteristics Primary Street Facing Features entry stoop projection, gables,
landscaped walkways,
symmetrical units
Fenestration and Openings Doors Windows Other Openings
Street facing arched dark wood,
decorative glass
multi pane, recessed
symmetriccal not clear
Material Wall Color Roof Hardscape
Stucco with stone veneer Warm beige with earth tone Clay Tile Concrete drive, steps, retaining walls, gate
Landscape Features Primary Features Hardscape Features Softscape Features Shrubs, hedges, trees Walkways/ steps, planters Flower beds, low hedges, ground cover wood chips
Primary Elevation Primary Features Articulation Frontage Type Other Arched entries, symmetrical
windows, tile rooflines
Plane changes, use of recess and
projection in the vertical elements Stoop 1/2 subterranean parking access off main street
Evaluation:

Strengths:

Provides architectural details that are consistent with the selected Spanish style, including tile decorative vents, arched openings, and a single-leaf solid wood door at the primary entry.

Weaknesses:

Proportions are a bit off; cornices are too large and visually dominant. Porch cover and window details are oversized and appear unbalanced relative to the building massing. There is a lack of consistency in the application of the architectural style—Spanish architecture typically embraces asymmetry and a mix of shapes, which is not well-reflected here. The overall composition of the façade feels disorganized. Window shutters are not appropriately scaled to the window openings.
6 ODS FIELDWORK CHECKLIST
The intention of this document is to capture prevalent and community defining architectural features to align with upcoming design standards.

Attach photos for important features.

Project / District (circle one): Casita de Zen Specific Plan Street (for districts): West Main Street & North 3rd Street City: Alhambra
Immediate Observations Approximate Age of Building Improvements / Renovations Overall Condition Historical Relevance 2015
Semi-private interior wall finish
improvments Good No Historical Relevance
Height Number of Stories Estimated Height
5 55 - 60 ft.

Setbacks Front Side Side Rear
1 foot 1 to 3 feet (street side) 0 feet (interior side) 6 feet Building Form Roof Geometry Overall Geometry Building Breaks Gable & Hipped roofs Vertical
1 to 3-foot depth for every 10 feet @
ground level
6-foot depth for every 10 to 20 feet @
2nd – 4th floors
3-foot depth for every 30 feet @ 5th
floor
Architectural Style Clearly Discernible Style Primary Features Associated With Style Spanish Revival
Arched openings, heavy roofing,
upper level balconies, ironwork, wide
range of opening sizes, emphasis on
overall structural mass
Building Type Typology
Podium with garage and commerial at
ground level and residential and
courtyard at upper levels
Defining Characteristics Primary Street Facing Features Open trellis structures, decorative
railing, fence, and grilles, decorative
gable vents, and corner rotunda
Fenestration and Openings Doors Windows Other Openings
Street facing or arcade facing, black
and grey aluminum door frame,
double swing at street level and
sliding at balconies
3x4 sliding, 2x casements, and
garden windows, flush with detailed
reveals or thickened surround,
proportioned per interior program
Graden window and prefabricated
garage grille/railing for fresh air
intake.

Material Wall Color Roof Hardscape
Smooth stucco, 1" stucco reveals,
course belt trim between 4th and 5th
floor, stucco columns
Grey, tan, and white walls; green roof
fascias; black and brown ironwork,
brown wood elements, and black and
grey windows and doors
Red slate roof tiles with half-round
edges. Soffit underside of roof eave
(boxed) Scored and colored concrete
Landscape Features Primary Features Hardscape Features Softscape Features Vines on courtyard trellis, perimeter
landscape screening, and
shrub/green walls Concrete walkways and driveway
Gravel in landscape areas at ground
level
Primary Elevation Primary Features Articulation Frontage Type Other Pop-out balconies, corner rotunda,
void at upper levels due to open
courtyard.

Material Changes at windows and at
different floor levels, Changes in
Plane vertically due to balconies,
stairswells, courtyards, or primary
entry points, Proportions of Openings
to Wall is larger at ground level then
upper levels.

Shopfront and residential lobby,
Arcade to parking and
retail/resturants, and covered dining
areas, and open parking garage at
ground level
Decorative fencing, awning, exterior
seating, art feature, and exterior light
fixtures, Utlitiy Location at roof
Strengths:

Residential portion of facade seems good, level of modulation may be appropriate Weaknesses:

Not consistent enough between podium & residential area (no common language of forms) corner turret may be the wrong move; not large enough to be usable on the ground floor & not enough separation; moved the entry from its intended location at the corner,roof is too busy, Would have been better to break massing on Main - crowds street too much? Evaluation:

CITY OF DUARTE OBJECTIVE DESIGN STANDARDS 72
Appendix E: SGVCOG Regional Objective Design Standards Research Memorandum 7 ODS FIELDWORK CHECKLIST
The intention of this document is to capture prevalent and community defining architectural features to align with upcoming design standards.

Attach photos for important features.

Project / District (circle one): Alhambra Pacific Plaza - 300 West Main Street Specific Plan Street (for districts): West Main Street & South 3rd Street & 4th Street City: Alhambra
Immediate Observations Approximate Age of Building Improvements / Renovations Overall Condition Historical Relevance 2016
Commerical signage and awning
improvements Good No Historical Relevance
Height Number of Stories Estimated Height
5 55 - 60 ft.

Setbacks Front Side Side Rear
3-15 foot 3 -6 feet (street side) 3-6 feet (street side) 25 feet Building Form Roof Geometry Overall Geometry Building Breaks Shed & Hipped roofs Vertical with mass podium
3 to 15-foot depth for every 15 feet
@ ground level
2-foot depth for every 10 to 20 feet
@ upper floors
Architectural Style Clearly Discernible Style Primary Features Associated With Style Mediterranean
Arched openings, barrel roofing,
upper level balconies, heavy base,
emphasis on wall and window
details
Building Type Typology
Podium with garage and commerial
at ground level and residential and
courtyard at upper levels
Defining Characteristics Primary Street Facing Features Trellis structures, decorative railing,
decorative trim and course belt, and
corner rotunda
Fenestration and Openings Doors Windows Other Openings
Street facing or Arcade facing, Silver
aluminum door frame, Double swing
at street level and sliding at
balconies
3x4 to 4x5 sliding and 2x3 singlehung, flush with stucco surround trim, organized in a serial rythum
Square openings for garage fresh air
intake, and 15-20 foot tall storefront
windows with grids
Material Wall Color Roof Hardscape
Smooth stucco, stone base that
wraps around the ground floor, 1"
stucco reveals, course belt trim,
cornice trim, stucco band &
decorative trim
Grey, tan, and white walls; red
awnings; black ironwork,
green/brown trellis, and white
windows and door frames
Terracotta-colored Barrel roof tiles
with half-round edges. Soffit
underside of roof eave (boxed) Scored concrete
Landscape Features Primary Features Hardscape Features Softscape Features Potted plants along public sidewalk Concrete walkways and driveway Planting at ground level Primary Elevation Primary Features Articulation Frontage Type Other Recessed balconies, corner rotunda
(octagon shape), side entrance
plaza / public amenities space
Material Changes at storefront base
and building modulations, Changes
in Plane due to balconies, grouped
windows, and primary entry points,
Proportions of Openings to Wall is
larger at ground level then upper
levels.

Storefront, Public plaze with Arcade
to parking and residential lobby, and
uncovered dining areas, and open
parking garage at ground level
facing the rear
Decorative railing, fabric awnings
and metal canopies, public seating/
art feature, and exterior light fixtures,
Utlitiy Location at roof
Evaluation:

Strengths:

More attention to storefront details, awnings, bulkhead, datum line at top of the podium, Clear base/middle/top, Stepback helps, Intent with trim and material change - around archways, vertical modules Weaknesses:

Plazas are not as useable (shallow)
Entry was moved from the indicated/designed location
8 ODS FIELDWORK CHECKLIST
The intention of this document is to capture prevalent and community defining architectural features to align with upcoming design standards.

Attach photos for important features.

Project / District (circle one): Plaza on Main
Street (for districts): West Main Street & South 4th Street & 5th Street City: Alhambra
Immediate Observations Approximate Age of Building Improvements / Renovations Overall Condition Historical Relevance 1926 (305 W Main St)
1999 (369 W Main St) Storefronts & Bulkhead renovations Moderate 305 W Main St - No Historical
Relevance
369 W Main St - No Historical
Relevance
Height Number of Stories Estimated Height
5 55 ft.

Setbacks Front Side Side Rear
0 - 6 inches 1 feet (street side) 0 feet (interior side) 0 feet (facing alley) Building Form Roof Geometry Overall Geometry Building Breaks Flat roofs Staggered Mass / Modular
1-5-foot depth for every 15 feet @
ground level
1-foot depth for every 20 feet @
upper floors
Architectural Style Clearly Discernible Style Primary Features Associated With Style Artdeco (305 W Main St)
Contemporary (369 W Main St)
Geometric forms and details,
symmetrical building mass (305 W
Main St)
Arched openings, geometric shapes
(369 W Main St)
Building Type Typology
Horizontal simple block (305 W Main
St)
Podium with garage and commerial
at ground level and residential with
central courtyard (369 W Main St)
Defining Characteristics Primary Street Facing Features Simple horziontal railing, fabric
awnings, and rounded corner
entrance
Fenestration and Openings Doors Windows Other Openings
Street facing, Horziontal arcade,
Double swing storefronts at street
level and sliding at balconies
3x4 fixed, vertical serial rythem (305
W Main St)
3x4 - 4x4 sliding, (369 W Main St)
Square openings for garage fresh air
intake, and 15-20 foot tall storefront
windows with grids
Material Wall Color Roof Hardscape
Stucco and Reflective Tile, stucco
reveals, iron work
Red, grey, tan, and brown walls; blue
awnings; red and brown ironwork,
white windows and door frames
Flat roofs, parapet with no
ornimentation, simple cornice Concrete
Landscape Features Primary Features Hardscape Features Softscape Features Vines growning on metal trellis Concrete walkways and driveway Planting at ground level Primary Elevation Primary Features Articulation Frontage Type Other Fabric awnings (305 W Main St)
Recessed balconies, arched
openings, curved corner facade (369
W Main St)
Material Changes at podium and
organized horizontally, Changes in
Plane due to balconies and upper
floors which are stepped back,
Proportions of Openings to Wall is
low
Large spans of Storefront, Arched
openings at entry, breeze way at
corner
Geometrical railing and grilles and
fabric awnings, Utlitiy Location at roof
Evaluation:

Strengths:

Landscaping frames paseo, open paseo into site. Storefronts at paseo are less framed Clear material transition base/middle/top
Four stories no setback
Transition into plaza
Weaknesses:

Bulkhead couldve been a more textured material. Overall stucco on ground floor is not too bad, because it has diferent shades and lines through it.

Roughly 100' wide simple box form on Main St is good, but 150' simple box form on 3rd St may be too long.

CITY OF DUARTE OBJECTIVE DESIGN STANDARDS 73
Appendix E: SGVCOG Regional Objective Design Standards Research Memorandum 9 ODS FIELDWORK CHECKLIST
The intention of this document is to capture prevalent and community defining architectural features to align with upcoming design standards.

Attach photos for important features.

Project / District (circle one): Alhambra 5th and Main Specific Plan Street (for districts): West Main Street & South 4th Street & 5th Street City: Alhambra
Immediate Observations Approximate Age of Building Improvements / Renovations Overall Condition Historical Relevance 2012
Semi-private interior wall finish
improvments Good No Histrical Relevance
Height Number of Stories Estimated Height
4 50- 55 ft.

Setbacks Front Side Side Rear
1 - 15 feet 1 ft (street side) 1 feet (interior side) 15 feet Building Form Roof Geometry Overall Geometry Building Breaks Hipped and Flat roofs Combination of Vertial and Box mass 1-foot depth for every 10 feet @
ground level
1 to 6-feet depth for every 10 feet @
upper floors
Architectural Style Clearly Discernible Style Primary Features Associated With Style Mediterranean
Arched openings, barrel roofing,
upper level balconies, heavy base,
emphasis on column, window, and
roof details
Building Type Typology
Semi-Podium with ground floor
commerical storefronts and
residential lobby entrances
Defining Characteristics Primary Street Facing Features Corner entry, side plaza, landscape
buffer between street and sidewalk,
focal landscape features
Fenestration and Openings Doors Windows Other Openings
Commercial doors are Street Facing,
residential are facing courtyard, black
aluminum door / storefront frames
30"x48" hung windows, flush with
stucco surround trim, proportions are
small and similar throughout Garage openings with metal grille Material Wall Color Roof Hardscape
Stucco walls, course belt, cornice,
bracket details, surround trim
Multi-color, color focused on window
groups, different color for base Red clay tile, flat parapet roofs Scored concrete and pavers Landscape Features Primary Features Hardscape Features Softscape Features Potted plants and ground shrubs
Scored concrete and brick pavers at
courtyard Shrubs on dirt at side yards
Primary Elevation Primary Features Articulation Frontage Type Other Metal canopies along sidewalks,
recessed and extended balconies,
metal awnings
Material change at the base stucco to
smooth concrete, Changes in Plane
at corners and at open plaza,
Proportions of Openings to Wall is
well balanced
Shopfront along the street sides,
Residnetial Lobby and covered porch
at courtyard, and at grade covered
parking in the rear
Prefabricated decorative fencing,
railing, and grilles, Utlitiy Location at
roof, No public seating, Courtyard
semi-private seating
General Notes:

North side, between 4th and 3rd Streets, Feels very bottom-heavy, No consistency between podium and upper levels,Lack of trim/changing material at balconies, Retail not inviting: lacks articulation, simple columns, low transparency, too dar.

Corner residential units need more transparency and exposure to both sides,Arcade dimension is too narrow 10 ODS FIELDWORK CHECKLIST
The intention of this document is to capture prevalent and community defining architectural features to align with upcoming design standards.

Attach photos for important features.

Project / District (circle one): Alhambra Regency Plaza Street (for districts): West Main Street & South 5th Street & 6th Street City: Alhambra
Immediate Observations Approximate Age of Building Improvements / Renovations Overall Condition Historical Relevance 2004 No improvements or renovations Good No Histrical Relevance Height Number of Stories Estimated Height
5 55-60 ft.

Setbacks Front Side Side Rear
0 to 20 feet 1 to 2 feet (street side) 1 to 3 feet (street side) 10 feet Building Form Roof Geometry Overall Geometry Building Breaks Gable & Flat roofs Staggered Mass / Modular
10-feet depth for every 10 to 20 feet
@ ground level
6-foot depth for every 10 feet @ 2nd
– 4th floors
1-foot depth for every 10 to 20 feet @
5th floor
Architectural Style Clearly Discernible Style Primary Features Associated With Style Contemporary
Geometric building forms,
symmetrical building mass,
emphasized grid system
Building Type Typology
Podium with commercial and garage
at ground level, residential and
amenities on top
Defining Characteristics Primary Street Facing Features Arcade, breeze way, side and corner
plaza area, fixed seating, and metal
trellis structures
Fenestration and Openings Doors Windows Other Openings
Street Facing for commerical and
residnetial lobby, double doors for
commerical and sliding for balconies,
silver color, aluminum
3x5 and 5x5 sliding with fixed bottom,
flush with trim top, Proportion is
similar in height varies in width
Arched fixed upper window and
arched garage openings
Material Wall Color Roof Hardscape
Stucco and tile wall finish, course belt
and Cornice
Multi-color with white, pink, and
brown walls, white trim, blue railing,
grilles and trellis
Flat parapet roof and staning seam
metal roof on gable, white cornice
and blue metal roof
Scored colored concrete, diamond
shape
Landscape Features Primary Features Hardscape Features Softscape Features Focal planters at plaza, potted plants,
and ground level planting
Scored colored concrete with
decroative geometic design Planters at grade
Primary Elevation Primary Features Articulation Frontage Type Other Horiztonal trim details on walls and
columns, covered arcade and open
plaza walkways, trellis structures, and
recessed balconies
Material Changes at bulkhead level,
Changes in Plane at plaza and
openings, Proportions of Openings to
Wall are well-balanced
Shopfront along sidwalks and facing
the plaza, residential lobby at arcade,
at grade parking located at the rear
Prefabricated fence and grilles for
garage, Utlitiy Location on the roof,
and public seating with canopy
Evaluation:

Strengths: Consistent use of shapes, between 5th and 6th St, color palette is pastels — of its time, planter buffer at the landscaping makes sense + outdoor dining (only uses that work)
Weaknesses:

Too much stepping back — overly complex, not needed along the whole block, reads as a four-story building, could have more awnings, colored or stamped concrete to differentiate the plaza from the sidewalk.

CITY OF DUARTE OBJECTIVE DESIGN STANDARDS 74
Appendix E: SGVCOG Regional Objective Design Standards Research Memorandum 11 ODS FIELDWORK CHECKLIST
The intention of this document is to capture prevalent and community defining architectural features to align with upcoming design standards.

Attach photos for important features.

Project Solana/ Esperanza
1750 Fasana Rd
City: Duarte
Immediate Observations Approximate Age of Building Improvements / Renovations Overall Condition Historical Relevance 2020's New Good No
Height Number of Stories Estimated Height
5 60'-65'
Setbacks Front Side Side Rear
5'-10' (landscaped) 0'-5' 0'-5' 20' / not clear
Building Form Roof Geometry Overall Geometry Building Breaks Flat Boxy/ Vertical modulation Massing articulation with breaks, open space breaks along façade
Architectural Style Clearly Discernible Style Primary Features Associated With Style Contemporary/ Urban modern
Metal panel cladding, exposed
steel framing, large storefront
glazing
Building Type Typology
Podium Apartment
(Leasing/amenity at ground,
parking behind)
Defining Characteristics Primary Street Facing Features varied cladding textures, deep
entry recesses, retail-scale
glazing, balconies, Large Signage
Fenestration and Openings Doors Windows Other Openings
Commercial-grade glass double
doors at leasing office, other entry
to amentiy and courtyards along
street
Modern windows, flush and
recessed; some double and some
singular
Recessed balconies, no visible
skylights
Material Wall Color Roof Hardscape
Metal siding, Cement Multi-color scheme (dark gray,
beige, burgundy red, black trim) Tar and gravel Concrete sidewalk, curb ramps, integrated tree wells Landscape Features Primary Features Hardscape Features Softscape Features Small street trees, structured
landscaping Concrete sidewalks, tree grates Decorative grasses, shrubs, small planters near entry
Primary Elevation Primary Features Articulation Frontage Type Other Metal/wood vertical siding, large
glass lobby, balconies
Material/plane changes, offset
balconies, vertical massing
breaks
Lobby Large signage, directional
signage to parking
Evaluation:

Strengths:

Clear and even distribution of building block widths, consistent use of steel/industrial aesthetic, massing is broken up at an appropriate rhythm, clear horizontal datum and window organization, emphasized building corners with stark colors and corner balconies, wraparound human-scale canopy at corners, complementary and well-coordinated color and materials palette, large freeway sign hides parking, ground-floor open spaces on some frontages, sufficient landscape buffer between private patios and sidewalk.

Weaknesses:

Building crown lacks roofline breaks or modulation, individual unit entries at ground level lack articulation and character, frontages are dominated by solid privacy walls, unclear how frontage types were incorporated, overall building height lacks variation. 12 ODS FIELDWORK CHECKLIST
The intention of this document is to capture prevalent and community defining architectural features to align with upcoming design standards.

Attach photos for important features.

Project
1413 Huntington Dr
City: Duarte
Immediate Observations Approximate Age of Building Improvements / Renovations Overall Condition Historical Relevance 2000's New Good No
Height Number of Stories Estimated Height
4 45'-55'
Setbacks Front Side Side Rear
5'-8' 0'-5' 0'-5' 15'-20'
Building Form Roof Geometry Overall Geometry Building Breaks Flat Boxy 60' break
Architectural Style Clearly Discernible Style Primary Features Associated With Style Contemporary
Brick/stucco contrast, symmetrical
facade, defined window framing,
cornice details
Building Type Typology
Podium (mixed-use or multi-family
over parking)
Defining Characteristics Primary Street Facing Features Tall street-level retail windows,
balconies, pedestrian-friendly
entrance, vertical brick columns
Fenestration and Openings Doors Windows Other Openings
Street-facing glass entries (retail) Repetitive double-hung style, flush Balconies on 2nd & 3rd floors Material Wall Color Roof Hardscape
Stucco and brick Multi-color (tan, olive green,
brown) Tar and gravel sidewalk, curb planters
Landscape Features Primary Features Hardscape Features Softscape Features Street trees in grates Concrete sidewalks, curb planters Small planting beds (minimal) Primary Elevation Primary Features Articulation Frontage Type Other Brick columns, balconies, defined
window cornices
Material changes, plane shifts at
balconies, color banding Shopfront podium parking access off main street
Evaluation:

Strengths:

Use of decorative paving materials to highlight plazas and commercial frontage, Use of multiple materials that are durable, Variation of metal canopies over storefronts that are human scale and consistent with the overall building character. Use of cornice or crown details that create horizontal breaks in the building mass while adding detail to the façade.

Horizontal articulation/modules are OK, plaza is a good size and user-friendly with a central public art element, commercial and parking entrances are clearly indicated, lacks upper-floor modulation and roofline variation Weaknesses:

Lack of depth and little definition defined by recessed openings and building façade modulation.

Parking garage entrance takes up a lot of usable storefront space. Parking garage should be located on the secondary or tertiary frontage.

CITY OF DUARTE OBJECTIVE DESIGN STANDARDS 75
Appendix E: SGVCOG Regional Objective Design Standards Research Memorandum 13 ODS FIELDWORK CHECKLIST
The intention of this document is to capture prevalent and community defining architectural features to align with upcoming design standards.

Attach photos for important features.

Project
1200 Olivia Court
City: Duarte
Immediate Observations Approximate Age of Building Improvements / Renovations Overall Condition Historical Relevance 2010's New Good No
Height Number of Stories Estimated Height
3 35'-45'
Setbacks Front Side Side Rear
15' 0'-5' 0'-5'
20'? ( measured on google maps,
could be less just built to 20' for car
access)
Building Form Roof Geometry Overall Geometry Building Breaks Gable Euclidean with projections Breaks for courtyard and garage on lot
Architectural Style Clearly Discernible Style Primary Features Associated With Style Mediterranean / Spanish Revival
Red tile roof, arched entryway,
stucco walls, shuttered windows,
simple ornamentation
Building Type Typology
Walk-Up Townhomes
(Garages Below)
Defining Characteristics Primary Street Facing Features Repetitive gable roofs, decorative
shutters, entry arches, stucco
cladding, private garage entries
Fenestration and Openings Doors Windows Other Openings
Residential-scale entry doors,
garage doors
Multi-pane horizontal windows;
some projecting bay windows;
small punched windows
Small arched entry recess; no
balconies or skylights visible
Material Wall Color Roof Hardscape
Smooth stucco exterior Cream / beige with darker accents Red clay tile Paver driveways, concrete sidewalk, garage access
Landscape Features Primary Features Hardscape Features Softscape Features Formal entry landscaping with
hedges and sign Paver driveway, concrete sidewalk Shrubs, groundcover, small trees, flowering beds
Primary Elevation Primary Features Articulation Frontage Type Other Arched entry, window shutters,
projecting bays
Roof projections, bay windows,
recessed entries at grade entry Neighborhood signage (OLIVA), minimal fencing
Evaluation:

Strengths:

Provides window details consistent with selected architectural style, pop-outs create depth and break up building mass, pop-outs compatible with Spanish architecture, well-distributed elements like iron grilles, awnings, shutters, and attic vents, sufficient landscape and setback buffer at ground-level patios, decorative paving at driveway and walkways, craftsmanship elements and accent points at building corners, consistent application of architectural style, good stoop frontage with landscaping transition, muted earth tones with contrasting trim, variation in modules adds interest, proportional shutters complement window scale, gutters and downspouts used as intentional visual elements Weaknesses:

Window color, materials, and grid style are inconsistent with the overall palette, window grid style lacks definition and does not reflect true divided lights 14 ODS FIELDWORK CHECKLIST
The intention of this document is to capture prevalent and community defining architectural features to align with upcoming design standards.

Attach photos for important features.

Project
70 Esperanza Ave
City: Sierra Madre
Immediate Observations Approximate Age of Building Improvements / Renovations Overall Condition Historical Relevance 2000's Landscaping Improvements, Most
likely painted
Good, building and landscaping
well maintained no
Height Number of Stories Estimated Height
3 30'-35'
Setbacks Front Side Side Rear
20' 5'-10' 5'-10' 5'-10'
Building Form Roof Geometry Overall Geometry Building Breaks Gable/Hipped Boxy Breaks in massing across unit
sections
Architectural Style Clearly Discernible Style Primary Features Associated With Style Contemporary Traditional Stone detatils, white trim, gabled roofs, covered entries, lodge like
Building Type Typology
Multifamily/ Townhome
Defining Characteristics Primary Street Facing Features Covered entryway, stone veneer,
balconies, well landscaped.

Fenestration and Openings Doors Windows Other Openings
Glass paneled double door faces
drive way loop for lobby, Streetfacing, wood for townhomesFlush, multi-pane windows. Balconies Material Wall Color Roof Hardscape
Stucco, Stone Veneer, Wood
Trim Shades of olives and green Shingle
Concrete sidewalks, Walkways,
Driveways/ drive loop, drive
pavers, Stone Veneer
Landscape Features Primary Features Hardscape Features Softscape Features Hedges, Trees, bushes
Walkways, Stone along column
bases, Stone Veneer wall at
driveway
Lawn, flower beds, planter areas
Primary Elevation Primary Features Articulation Frontage Type Other Covered entries, balconies, varied
windows
Variations in massing, recessed
balconies, contrast in materials,
trim color, plane shifts, Town
homes use projections nicely
Lobby Subterranean parking access
from west
Evaluation:

Strengthen:

Building staggers or steps back to reduce overall scale from the public right-of-way, appropriate building details for style such as course belt trim, recessed windows, wide overhangs, and exposed structural beams, use of multiple materials such as stone, stucco, and wood appropriate for the style, large covered porch emphasizes building entry, stepbacks attempt to reduce perceived massing, project includes elements that reference style despite varied surrounding context
Weaknessses:
overall building scale feels oversized relative to neighborhood, stepbacks only partially effective in reducing massing, porte-cochere creates an inactive and unengaging frontage, project exceeds low-rise character of surrounding area, front setback is too deep and weakens relationship to street, lacks a clear frontage type to primary building entry for pedestrians

CITY OF DUARTE OBJECTIVE DESIGN STANDARDS 76
Appendix E: SGVCOG Regional Objective Design Standards Research Memorandum 15 ODS FIELDWORK CHECKLIST
The intention of this document is to capture prevalent and community defining architectural features to align with upcoming design standards.

Attach photos for important features.

Project
405 Mariposa Ave
City: Sierra Madre
Immediate Observations Approximate Age of Building Improvements / Renovations Overall Condition Historical Relevance Not Clear Not sure if improved or just
maintained.

Good, building and landscaping
well maintained no
Height Number of Stories Estimated Height
2 25'-30'
Setbacks Front Side Side Rear
10'-15' 5'-10' 5'-10' 15'
Building Form Roof Geometry Overall Geometry Building Breaks Gable/Hipped Boxy/ Euclidean Yes
Architectural Style Clearly Discernible Style Primary Features Associated With Style Spanish Colonial / Ranch Style Arches, Clay tile roofs, stucco walls
Building Type Typology
Multifamily
Defining Characteristics Primary Street Facing Features Arched porch, decorative tiled
stairs, balconies, varied
landscaping
Fenestration and Openings Doors Windows Other Openings
Arched wood door Flush, Symmetrical Balconies
Material Wall Color Roof Hardscape
Stucco Off-white or cream Clay tile ADA Ramps, Concrete sidewalks, Walkways, Steps, Driveways
Landscape Features Primary Features Hardscape Features Softscape Features Hedges, Trees, courtyard Brick/Tiled Paths, Decomposed
Granite, Ramp
Trees, shrubs, planters, flowering
plants
Primary Elevation Primary Features Articulation Frontage Type Other Arcade walkways, corner feature,
awnings, courtyard
Recessed arches, varied wall
planes, symmetry with small
shifts
Porch/Stoop Driveway access with gate to the
west.

Evaluation:

Strengthen:

Appropriately scaled for the neighborhood, building features consistent with Spanish style such as decorative railings, stone door trim, and exposed rafter tails, significant setback with ample landscaping between patios and sidewalk, decorative paving at driveway and walkways, multifamily building appears like single-family which integrates into the neighborhood, well-articulated massing, strong frontage appeal that engages the street, well-maintained landscaping enhances curb presence, integrated ramp and stair access, authentic Spanish elements like archways and tiled roofs Weaknesses:

Lacks a clear frontage type to private units or common space such as a stoop or defined entry feature 16 ODS FIELDWORK CHECKLIST
The intention of this document is to capture prevalent and community defining architectural features to align with upcoming design standards.

Attach photos for important features.

Project
245 W Sierra Madre Blvd
City: Sierra Madre
Immediate Observations Approximate Age of Building Improvements / Renovations Overall Condition Historical Relevance 2010's Not sure if improved or just
maintained.

Good, building and landscaping
well maintained no
Height Number of Stories Estimated Height
2 25'-30'
Setbacks Front Side Side Rear
10' 10' 10' 10'
Building Form Roof Geometry Overall Geometry Building Breaks Gable/Hipped Boxy/ Horizontal yes, courtyard
Architectural Style Clearly Discernible Style Primary Features Associated With Style Spanish Colonial / Ranch Style Arches, Clay tile roofs, stucco walls
Building Type Typology
Mixed Use / Senior Living
Defining Characteristics Primary Street Facing Features Covered arcade, signage,
awnings, corner tower, balconies,
iron railings, decorative tile
Fenestration and Openings Doors Windows Other Openings
White framed, glazed, double Multi-pane, flush with stucco, white trim not clear
Material Wall Color Roof Hardscape
Stucco Off-white or cream Clay tile ADA Ramps, Concrete sidewalks, Walkways, Steps, Driveways
Landscape Features Primary Features Hardscape Features Softscape Features Hedges, Trees, courtyard Concrete paths, driveways,
Steps, Walkways
Trees, shrubs, planters, flowering
plants
Primary Elevation Primary Features Articulation Frontage Type Other Arcade walkways, corner feature,
awnings, courtyard
Inset windows, color breaks,
plane changes Gallery, Porch
Evaluation:

Strenghten:

Well-balanced breaks in the roofline and roof modulation, sufficient level of detail to window trim and grouping, usable and semi-private arcade that is visually appropriate and provides screening, appropriately screened utilities and equipment using planting or low walls, good level of detail with appropriate use of Spanish Colonial style, well-executed arcade helps conceal building depth and massing, open space along frontage breaks up façade length, effective use of landscaping and fencing to define open spaces while maintaining privacy, standpipes are well screened with landscaping and low walls Weaknesses:

Railing lacks decoration consistent with Spanish style, window grilles lack depth and definition due to grids being located between the glass rather than on the exterior, window depth is lacking and could benefit from more shadow and articulation

CITY OF DUARTE OBJECTIVE DESIGN STANDARDS 77
Appendix E: SGVCOG Regional Objective Design Standards Research Memorandum Exhibit F
Successful Projects that Exemplify
Specific Objective Design Standards
(Include name of project, full project
address)
Objective Design Standards this Project Exemplifies
(Include explanation of why the project is successful, for each identified design standard) Link to picture examples of successful projects 801 East Main Housing Project
Site Planning and Access - locating vehicular access
along the non-major high-traffic streets, locating open common spaces at the corners of the site to maximize
human interaction and clear visuals to site amenities,
provided covered entries to each unit, creating
connectivity for pedestrians where openings or voids
along the building facade occur and invite patrons to
separate spaces on the project. Building Modulation &
Articulation - buildings present balconies (covered and uncovered) that create relief and breaks in the building mass, presents various openings, decorative railing and notches, awnings, and corbels that articulates the facade, and is designed at a lower human scale along the public sidewalk with 1 - 1 1/2 stories or setback from the
property line with well-design landscaping buffer.
801-817 East Main Street and 17-25 North Granada
Avenue | Alhambra, CA
49 dwelling units ranging in size from 2 to 4
bedrooms. As required by the State Housing Element
Law, the City rezoned the project site to allow
residential development as a use by-right for projects
that dedicate at least 20% of their total units as
affordable to lower income households
Mariposa Affordable Housing Development
Materials, Finishes, and Color - the building provides at least 3 different wall cladding materials or colors such as brick and siding panels of various colors. Focusing
heavier materials at the base of the building creating a logical foundation and changing siding colors where
modulation occurs on the upper floors. Finishes are
authentic with a natural appearance and texture. Parking structure - location of at grade parking is oriented
towards a parking lot and alley, and away from the main thoroughfare. Parking structure is integrated into the
overall design and introduces a series of focus planting at columns. Mariposa Affordable Housing Development | Alhambra, CA A mix of 1- and 2- bedroom units for a total of 40
units in a 5-story building with on-site support
services
Monterey Bay Square
Entries – location of residential entries are more private in nature with potted landscaping, isolated canopy,
signage, and transparent. Verses retail and restaurant
entrances which are presented with larger storefronts,
cohesive overhang/awning, thickened bulkhead and
columns that create a durable foundation along a high
pedestrian traffic area. Parking Structures – present a panelized system on the exterior façade that screens
parking while adding an architectural element to the
elevation. These perforated panels provide shade to the interior of the parking structure and create a visual appeal through lighting. Monterey Bay Square | Alhambra, CA
A mixed-use residential and commercial center that
consists of ground-floor retail and restaurant, and five floors of condominium residential units (62 units total) above. There will also be a second building
consisting of a 7-level parking structure with a ground floor restaurant unit. (built)
123 South Marguerita Ave
Building Modulation and Articulation – presents a
combination of roof forms at different heights that is
compatible with its architectural style. Roof supports / brackets are well-detailed and consistent throughout.

Upper stories are setbacks to create a more human scale design with a differentiation in design among each story.

Materials, Finishes, and Color – At least 3 different
materials are used on the project including stone, lap
siding, and stucco with complementary colors. Materials are logically organized where stone is focused along the base of the building, and siding and stucco are welldistributed throughout. 123 South Marguerita Avenue | Alhambra, CA A three-story, four-unit apartment complex. The
complex is configured as a duplex, and features
landscaping, and communal space in the form of
common open space. The Craftsman style
architecture can be seen in the Hardie-siding, roof
brackets, shaped rafter tails and hung windows.

Solana (Duarte), 1750 Fasana Rd, Duarte,
CA 91010
Architectural Elements - roof lines broken at regular
intervals, balcony materials are consistent with the
architectural style, freeway visible signage
Articulation - four-sided architecture, difference in
materials from first two floors to upper floors, recessed balconies at top of building
Architectural Corner Element - red color at corner
Materials - balconies look to be steel or metal, Roof
materials complement the materials and colors of the
façades, color are varied across facade, standing seam
metal at the key corner helps the entry stand out.

Open Space Amenities - open space includes BBQ
grills, pizza oven, fire pit, dog park, pool jacuzi, gathering space, private phone call rooms, business room
https://www.solanaduarte.com/gallery/
Exhibit F
Successful Projects that Exemplify
Specific Objective Design Standards
(Include name of project, full project
address)
Objective Design Standards this Project Exemplifies
(Include explanation of why the project is successful, for each identified design standard) Link to picture examples of successful projects Paragon at Old Town Apartments, 700 S
Myrtle Ave, Monrovia, CA 91016
Base/Middle/Top - use of brick material and horizontal
datum to distinguish retail ground floor from upper
residential floors
Building Breaks - pedestrian courtyards off the side
streets are 50' deep building setbacks off the street (not full breaks)
Architectural Corner Elements - pedestrian courtyard
at corner, floating corner element at south corner on
myrtle (3D architectural element)
Materials - in some places ground floor materials/color differentiation between ground floor v upper floors,
awnings along Myrtle street frontage, podium parking
materials match some sides of the building, similar
color/materials as development to northeast
Design of Parking/Elements to conceal parking
structure use - it looks like a apartment building (aka fake windows), however, it is clearly parking, landscaping around the parking podium, entrances located furthest
from the Myrtle intersection
https://www.paragonatoldtown.
com/apartments/ca/monrovia/photo-gallery
Avalon Monrovia, 825 S Myrtle Ave,
Monrovia, CA 91016
Building Form - 360 degree design, the inset balconies
reduce bulk/massing
Materials and Colors - very monolithic white to light
cream; white brick material used along the corner and
also along the ground floor, but not the entire ground
floor, smooth texture on all other surfaces of building, balconies seem to be steel/metal, some of the balconies have awnings that aren't fabric, parking podium looks
semi-similar to the building in color
Entries - Corner entrance is most prominent, with high
transparency and tower.

Stepbacks - fronting on Myrtle the top floor is
stepbacked off the street, matching Paragon to north
Colorado Blvd/Primrose Ave NE Corner
(Monrovia), 151 W Colorado Blvd,
Monrovia, CA 91016
Frontage Types - frontyard/porch type, accomodated in
a variety of ways in both the block-scale and house-scale portions of the development
Large site designed as two separate developments
Articulation - Western townhomes designed as
individually distinguished row homes (e.g. San Francisco) New Development North of APU citrus
college station (The Promenade), 839
Orchid Way, Azusa, CA 91702
Public Realm/Landscaping - An entire townhome
development formed around a central traffic circle and
boulevards with landscaped paths/medians
Architectural Style - Seems like the townhomes follow a Spanish colonial architectural style. Materials include brick at the ground floor level of some of the buildings, smooth white, cream, yellow, light brown color, medium
brown accents. Mission bell type lights. Small variations between buildings and larger variations between blocks
to avoid extreme monotony.

Areum Monrovia
An interesting shape for the development, a triangle
Wrap development/hidden parking
large green space setback from santa anita wash with
dog spaces and a pool
Citrus Walk, 137 E. Italia Street, Covina,
CA 91723
Frontage Type (yard?) - Seems there are ground floor
porches fenced in along Italia St, and there are also
individual entrances linked to these porches. These
porches are flat to the ground.

Material and Color - Colors in the development are
orange, blue, green, grey. Articulation highlights
individual units.

Building Type (live/work) - Rowhouses, but The corner
townhome has a rear facing balcony, and this townhome
also features a ground floor commercial use. Also the
townhomes fronting on Citrus Ave have ground floor
commercial uses, and inset balconies.

Citrus Village (City Ventures), 1009 N
Citrus Ave, Covina, CA 91722
Pedestrian Connectivity - Stone material to slow traffic at entry, pedestrian connection to central green space
Frontage (patio) - There are walled in no-step patios at the ground floor level fronting on Citrus Ave. These patios lead to individual unit entries.

CITY OF DUARTE OBJECTIVE DESIGN STANDARDS 78
Appendix E: SGVCOG Regional Objective Design Standards Research Memorandum Exhibit F
Successful Projects that Exemplify
Specific Objective Design Standards
(Include name of project, full project
address)
Objective Design Standards this Project Exemplifies
(Include explanation of why the project is successful, for each identified design standard) Link to picture examples of successful projects Monterey Station Apartments, 120 N Garey
Ave, Pomona, CA 91767
Material and Color - Colors are lime, white, light brown, dark brown, dark grey/navy. Along Garey Ave, brick
material along 2nd and 3rd stories, smooth white texture on ground floor, metal siding texture at fourth floor.

Corner - No corner element architecturally, but there is public art.
80 North Raymond Condominiums, 80 N
Raymond Ave, Pasadena, CA 91103 Parking mimics building detail Marv's Place, 143 Mar Vista Ave,
Pasadena, CA 91106 Residential yard frontage in multifamily Mission Meridian Village, 727-809 Meridian
Ave, South Pasadena, CA 91030
Large Site - breaks up large site into two separately
designed projects, and residential site into smaller-scaled buildings
Building Orientation - buildings oriented to maximize
spaces and views from street, house-scale view
Architectural Style - Craftsman style townhomes
transitions to single family neighborhood
Frontage - porch frontage and vertical separation from
street provide privacy
Park View, 645 E Union St, Pasadena, CA
91101
Material and Color - coherent application of Spanish
architectural style, white stucco, blue trim, terra cotta roof, and cream balcony pilasters
Trio Apartments, 44 N Madison Ave,
Pasadena, CA 91101
Corner - corner open space/dining gesture with tower
and public art at top
Stepback - horizontal datum and stepback from street
frontage at top floor delineates top of building
Open Space - penetrable public open space
Exhibit F
Successful Projects that Exemplify
Specific Objective Design Standards
(Include name of project, full project
address)
Objective Design Standards this Project Exemplifies
(Include explanation of why the project is successful, for each identified design standard) Link to picture examples of successful projects Image of Project 801 East Main Housing Project
Site Planning and Access - locating vehicular access
along the non-major high-traffic streets, locating open common spaces at the corners of the site to maximize
human interaction and clear visuals to site amenities,
provided covered entries to each unit, creating
connectivity for pedestrians where openings or voids
along the building facade occur and invite patrons to
separate spaces on the project. Building Modulation &
Articulation - buildings present balconies (covered and uncovered) that create relief and breaks in the building mass, presents various openings, decorative railing and notches, awnings, and corbels that articulates the facade, and is designed at a lower human scale along the public sidewalk with 1 - 1 1/2 stories or setback from the
property line with well-design landscaping buffer.
801-817 East Main Street and 17-25 North Granada
Avenue | Alhambra, CA
49 dwelling units ranging in size from 2 to 4
bedrooms. As required by the State Housing Element
Law, the City rezoned the project site to allow
residential development as a use by-right for projects
that dedicate at least 20% of their total units as
affordable to lower income households
Mariposa Affordable Housing Development
Materials, Finishes, and Color - the building provides at least 3 different wall cladding materials or colors such as brick and siding panels of various colors. Focusing
heavier materials at the base of the building creating a logical foundation and changing siding colors where
modulation occurs on the upper floors. Finishes are
authentic with a natural appearance and texture. Parking structure - location of at grade parking is oriented
towards a parking lot and alley, and away from the main thoroughfare. Parking structure is integrated into the
overall design and introduces a series of focus planting at columns. Mariposa Affordable Housing Development | Alhambra, CA A mix of 1- and 2- bedroom units for a total of 40
units in a 5-story building with on-site support
services
Monterey Bay Square
Entries – location of residential entries are more private in nature with potted landscaping, isolated canopy,
signage, and transparent. Verses retail and restaurant
entrances which are presented with larger storefronts,
cohesive overhang/awning, thickened bulkhead and
columns that create a durable foundation along a high
pedestrian traffic area. Parking Structures – present a panelized system on the exterior façade that screens
parking while adding an architectural element to the
elevation. These perforated panels provide shade to the interior of the parking structure and create a visual appeal through lighting. Monterey Bay Square | Alhambra, CA
A mixed-use residential and commercial center that
consists of ground-floor retail and restaurant, and five floors of condominium residential units (62 units total) above. There will also be a second building
consisting of a 7-level parking structure with a ground floor restaurant unit. (built)
123 South Marguerita Ave
Building Modulation and Articulation – presents a
combination of roof forms at different heights that is
compatible with its architectural style. Roof supports / brackets are well-detailed and consistent throughout.

Upper stories are setbacks to create a more human scale design with a differentiation in design among each story.

Materials, Finishes, and Color – At least 3 different
materials are used on the project including stone, lap
siding, and stucco with complementary colors. Materials are logically organized where stone is focused along the base of the building, and siding and stucco are welldistributed throughout. 123 South Marguerita Avenue | Alhambra, CA A three-story, four-unit apartment complex. The
complex is configured as a duplex, and features
landscaping, and communal space in the form of
common open space. The Craftsman style
architecture can be seen in the Hardie-siding, roof
brackets, shaped rafter tails and hung windows.

Solana (Duarte), 1750 Fasana Rd, Duarte,
CA 91010
Architectural Elements - roof lines broken at regular
intervals, balcony materials are consistent with the
architectural style, freeway visible signage
Articulation - four-sided architecture, difference in
materials from first two floors to upper floors, recessed balconies at top of building
Architectural Corner Element - red color at corner
Materials - balconies look to be steel or metal, Roof
materials complement the materials and colors of the
façades, color are varied across facade, standing seam
metal at the key corner helps the entry stand out.

Open Space Amenities - open space includes BBQ
grills, pizza oven, fire pit, dog park, pool jacuzi, gathering space, private phone call rooms, business room
https://www.solanaduarte.com/gallery/
Paragon at Old Town Apartments, 700 S
Myrtle Ave, Monrovia, CA 91016
Base/Middle/Top - use of brick material and horizontal
datum to distinguish retail ground floor from upper
residential floors
Building Breaks - pedestrian courtyards off the side
streets are 50' deep building setbacks off the street (not full breaks)
Architectural Corner Elements - pedestrian courtyard
at corner, floating corner element at south corner on
myrtle (3D architectural element)
Materials - in some places ground floor materials/color differentiation between ground floor v upper floors,
awnings along Myrtle street frontage, podium parking
materials match some sides of the building, similar
color/materials as development to northeast
Design of Parking/Elements to conceal parking
structure use - it looks like a apartment building (aka fake windows), however, it is clearly parking, landscaping around the parking podium, entrances located furthest
from the Myrtle intersection
https://www.paragonatoldtown.
com/apartments/ca/monrovia/photo-gallery
Avalon Monrovia, 825 S Myrtle Ave,
Monrovia, CA 91016
Building Form - 360 degree design, the inset balconies
reduce bulk/massing
Materials and Colors - very monolithic white to light
cream; white brick material used along the corner and
also along the ground floor, but not the entire ground
floor, smooth texture on all other surfaces of building, balconies seem to be steel/metal, some of the balconies have awnings that aren't fabric, parking podium looks
semi-similar to the building in color
Entries - Corner entrance is most prominent, with high
transparency and tower.

Stepbacks - fronting on Myrtle the top floor is
stepbacked off the street, matching Paragon to north

CITY OF DUARTE OBJECTIVE DESIGN STANDARDS 79
Appendix E: SGVCOG Regional Objective Design Standards Research Memorandum Exhibit F
Successful Projects that Exemplify
Specific Objective Design Standards
(Include name of project, full project
address)
Objective Design Standards this Project Exemplifies
(Include explanation of why the project is successful, for each identified design standard) Link to picture examples of successful projects Image of Project Colorado Blvd/Primrose Ave NE Corner
(Monrovia), 151 W Colorado Blvd,
Monrovia, CA 91016
Frontage Types - frontyard/porch type, accomodated in
a variety of ways in both the block-scale and house-scale portions of the development
Large site designed as two separate developments
Articulation - Western townhomes designed as
individually distinguished row homes (e.g. San Francisco) New Development North of APU citrus
college station (The Promenade), 839
Orchid Way, Azusa, CA 91702
Public Realm/Landscaping - An entire townhome
development formed around a central traffic circle and
boulevards with landscaped paths/medians
Architectural Style - Seems like the townhomes follow a Spanish colonial architectural style. Materials include brick at the ground floor level of some of the buildings, smooth white, cream, yellow, light brown color, medium
brown accents. Mission bell type lights. Small variations between buildings and larger variations between blocks
to avoid extreme monotony.

Areum Monrovia
An interesting shape for the development, a triangle
Wrap development/hidden parking
large green space setback from santa anita wash with
dog spaces and a pool
Citrus Walk, 137 E. Italia Street, Covina,
CA 91723
Frontage Type (yard?) - Seems there are ground floor
porches fenced in along Italia St, and there are also
individual entrances linked to these porches. These
porches are flat to the ground.

Material and Color - Colors in the development are
orange, blue, green, grey. Articulation highlights
individual units.

Building Type (live/work) - Rowhouses, but The corner
townhome has a rear facing balcony, and this townhome
also features a ground floor commercial use. Also the
townhomes fronting on Citrus Ave have ground floor
commercial uses, and inset balconies.

Citrus Village (City Ventures), 1009 N
Citrus Ave, Covina, CA 91722
Pedestrian Connectivity - Stone material to slow traffic at entry, pedestrian connection to central green space
Frontage (patio) - There are walled in no-step patios at the ground floor level fronting on Citrus Ave. These patios lead to individual unit entries.

Monterey Station Apartments, 120 N Garey
Ave, Pomona, CA 91767
Material and Color - Colors are lime, white, light brown, dark brown, dark grey/navy. Along Garey Ave, brick
material along 2nd and 3rd stories, smooth white texture on ground floor, metal siding texture at fourth floor.

Corner - No corner element architecturally, but there is public art.
80 North Raymond Condominiums, 80 N
Raymond Ave, Pasadena, CA 91103 Parking mimics building detail Marv's Place, 143 Mar Vista Ave,
Pasadena, CA 91106 Residential yard frontage in multifamily Exhibit F
Successful Projects that Exemplify
Specific Objective Design Standards
(Include name of project, full project
address)
Objective Design Standards this Project Exemplifies
(Include explanation of why the project is successful, for each identified design standard) Link to picture examples of successful projects Image of Project Mission Meridian Village, 727-809 Meridian
Ave, South Pasadena, CA 91030
Large Site - breaks up large site into two separately
designed projects, and residential site into smaller-scaled buildings
Building Orientation - buildings oriented to maximize
spaces and views from street, house-scale view
Architectural Style - Craftsman style townhomes
transitions to single family neighborhood
Frontage - porch frontage and vertical separation from
street provide privacy
Park View, 645 E Union St, Pasadena, CA
91101
Material and Color - coherent application of Spanish
architectural style, white stucco, blue trim, terra cotta roof, and cream balcony pilasters
Trio Apartments, 44 N Madison Ave,
Pasadena, CA 91101
Corner - corner open space/dining gesture with tower
and public art at top
Stepback - horizontal datum and stepback from street
frontage at top floor delineates top of building
Open Space - penetrable public open space

CITY OF DUARTE OBJECTIVE DESIGN STANDARDS 80
External Source List for Images and
Graphics:

All images and graphics not identified in this list are the property of either The Arroyo Group of ONYX
Architects.

Top left image: Paragon at Old Town (https://www.
paragonatoldtown.com/apartments/ca/monrovia/
neighborhood)

Top map graphic: San Gabriel Valley Council of
Governments (https://www.sgvcog.org/about)

Top left image: TrioAptsPasadena (https://www.
trioaptspasadena.com)
Bottom left image: Zillow.com (https://www.zillow.
com/homedetails/1015-N-Citrus-Ave-CovinaCA-91722/122236404_zpid/) Top right image: Solana at Duarte Station (https://
www.solanaduarte.com/gallery/)
Bottom right image: Trulia.com (https://www.
trulia.com/home/103-n-catalina-ave-pasadenaca-91106-250338849)

Top image: Avalon Communities (https://www.
avaloncommunities.com/california/monroviaapartments/avalon-monrovia/) Middle image: ReeceNichols Real Estate (https://www.
reecenichols.com/realestate/details/55527134/117-
w-2nd-suite-d-street-stanberry-mo-64489)

Bottom right image: Loftway (https://loftway.com/
buildings/station-lofts-pasadena/)

Bottom right image: Gem City Images (http://www.
gemcityimages.com/2021/06/avalon-monrovia.html)

Bottom right image: Homes.com (https://www.homes.
com/real-estate-agents/mingyang-gao/fh9l7yt/)

Bottom image: The Cultural Landscape Foundation
(https://www.tclf.org/landscapes/plaza-las-fuentes)

Top left image: Playavista.com (https://playavista.
com/sustainability-begins-here/)
Bottom left image: Francis Krahe & Associates
(https://www.fkaild.com/united-states/playa-vistaparks)

Top left image: National Core (https://nationalcore.
org/communities/marvs-place/)
Top right image: Playavista.com (https://playavista.
com/)
Bottom right image: Budzet.krakow.pl (https://budzet.
krakow.pl/)

Top left image: Ace/121 Gallery (https://ace121gallery. com/)
Top right image: Pasadena Star News (https://
www.pasadenastarnews.com/2019/12/30/explorepasadena-come-for-the-roses-stay-for-theshopping/) Bottom right image: Yelp courtesy of Maruko X

Top left image: Yelp courtesy of Diana G
Bottom left image: Sierra: The Magazine of the Sierra
Club (https://www.sierraclub.org/sierra/green-life/
how-green-your-alley)
Top right image: Excellencepremierrealestate.com
(https://www.excellencepremierrealestate.com/
property/virtual-tour/651341447)
Bottom right image: Zillow (https://www.zillow.
com/homedetails/521-Venice-Way-VeniceCA-90291/2056165775_zpid/)

Bottom left image: The Orchard Apartments
(Downtown Azusa) (https://theorchardazusa.com/)
Top right image: Alexan Marmont (https://
alexanmarmont.com/)
Bottom right image: Esperanza Apartments Duarte
Station (https://www.liveesperanza.com/)

Top image: Newman Garrison + Partners - Parking
Landing Apartments (https://nggpartners.com/
portfolio-item/park-landing-buena-park-ca/)
Bottom image: San Diego Tribune (https://www.
sandiegouniontribune.com/2012/05/25/ucsdbuilding-has-green-roof/)

Top left Image: Solana at Duarte Station (https://www.
solanaduarte.com/gallery/)
Bottom left image: City of Alhambra (https://www.
alhambraca.gov/770/801-817-East-Main-Street-and17-25-North) Bottom right image: Zillow (https://www.zillow.
com/homedetails/1015-N-Citrus-Ave-CovinaCA-91722/122236404_zpid/)

Top left image: Loopnet (https://www.loopnet.
com/Listing/216-N-Coronado-St-Los-AngelesCA/35954028/) Bottom left image: Duradeck (https://duradek.
com/vinyl-decking/vinyl-decking-applications/roofdecks/) Both right images: Sue Cook, Listing Agent,
via Compass (https://www.compass.com/
homedetails/280-W-Montecito-Ave-Unit-H-SierraMadre-CA-91024/1IUFJL_pid/) External Image Sources

AGENDA REPORT
1 MEETING DATE: May 26, 2026
TO: Mayor and Members of the City Council
FROM: Stephanie Sandoval, Public Works Manager
Albert Nuñez, Management Analyst
SUBJECT: Selection and Approval of 2025 Call for Artists Utility Box Art Designs and Implementation of Remaining City-Owned Utility Box Locations
RECOMMENDATION: It is recommended that the City Council:
1) Select and approve recommended designs for each utility box location as part of the 2025 Call for Artists for the City’s Utility Box Art Program
2) Authorize City staff to retain and implement non-selected finalist artwork submissions from the 2025 Call for Artists at remaining City-owned utility box locations, subject to artist consent 3) Approve a budget amendment in the amount of $22,000 for implementation of the remaining utility box locations
FISCAL IMPACT: Phase two of the Utility Box Art Program is included in the Fiscal Year (FY) 2025-26 budget in the amount of $30,000. The total cost of the project would be approximately $52,000. There are sufficient funds in the Public Art account (1020-7721).

STRATEGIC PLAN
IMPACT: Goal G – G2.2 Infrastructure and Beautification

BACKGROUND
The City of Duarte is committed to incorporating art into public spaces to create a vibrant, welcoming, and inclusive community. In late 2023, the City launched the Utility Box Art Program (“Program”) to transform City-controlled utility boxes into visually engaging public art that reflects Duarte’s unique character. The first artwork installations of the Program consisted of six utility boxes and were completed in March 2025.

At its regular meeting on June 24, 2025, the City Council approved the formation of an Arts Ad Hoc Committee to oversee the next phase of the Program. To support continued implementation, the adopted Fiscal Year 2025–26 budget includes $30,000 dedicated to utility box art.

Agenda Item: 17.B.

2 The 2025 Call for Artists was announced on December 1, 2025, with an original submission deadline of February 2, 2026. Due to a limited number of initial submissions, the deadline was extended to February 28, 2026. In addition, eligibility was expanded from artists residing, working, or attending school in Los Angeles County to those within the Greater Los Angeles area. Following these adjustments, the City received a total of 81 submissions.

This year’s theme, “Duarte’s Route 66 – Past, Present, & Future,” was selected in recognition of the upcoming centennial of Route 66 in 2026 and reflects Duarte’s historic connection to this iconic corridor. Subthemes included “Faces & People,” “Pop Culture & Entertainment,” and “Landscapes,” depending on utility box configuration.

DISCUSSION/ANALYSIS
Program Overview
The 2025 Utility Box Art Program includes a total of fifteen (15) locations and twenty-one (21) utility boxes across three configuration types:
● Six (6) locations – Traffic Controllers and Meter Pedestals ○ Subtheme: “Faces & People” OR “Pop Culture & Entertainment” ● Four (4) locations – Meter Pedestals Only
○ Subtheme: “Faces & People” OR “Pop Culture & Entertainment” ● Five (5) locations – Irrigation Control Boxes Only
○ Subtheme: “Landscapes”
Selected designs will be printed on graffiti-resistant vinyl and installed by a third-party vendor.

Installation is anticipated to occur in late Summer 2026, subject to vendor scheduling. The City’s Field Services Division will oversee maintenance to ensure the longevity and quality of the artwork.

Each utility box location will also feature a QR code linking to the Utility Box Art Program webpage, providing residents and visitors with information about the artists and their design inspiration. This feature is intended to enhance community engagement and promote appreciation of public art throughout the City.

Evaluation Process
Due to variations in the number of submissions received per location, the Arts Ad Hoc Committee implemented a structured evaluation process to ensure high-quality artwork selections across all sites.

The review process included the following steps:

1. Organization of Submittals
All artwork submissions were grouped by location and configuration type.

2. Prioritization of Review
Locations receiving the highest number of submissions were reviewed first.

3 3. Initial Review and Shortlisting
Each Committee member independently reviewed submissions and identified their top three (3) preferred designs for each location. For these selections, members reviewed the corresponding artist and artwork statements to better understand the concept and intent.

4. Detailed Evaluation and Ranking
Committee members conducted a more in-depth evaluation of their selected designs and ranked them as:
● 1st Choice
● 2nd Choice
● 3rd Choice

5. Vote Tallying
Rankings were submitted to City staff, who compiled and tallied the results to determine the highest-rated designs for each location.

6. Selection of Finalists
The two (2) highest-ranked designs for each location were identified as finalists and are presented to the City Council for final selection and approval (Attachment A).

7. Reassignment of Additional Designs
In select cases, third-ranked designs were considered for reassignment to alternative locations, where appropriate, to ensure strong design representation across all program sites.

Use of Non-Selected Finalist Artwork Submissions
At this time, as shown in Attachment B, six (6) locations containing both a traffic controller and meter pedestal, and one (1) location containing a traffic controller only, remain available for installation. Given the high level of interest and quality of artwork received through the City’s 2025 Call for Artists, staff recommends retaining and implementing non-selected finalist artwork submissions at remaining City-owned utility box locations.

In cases where the City Council selects a design for a location with multiple utility boxes, and the original submission included artwork for only a single utility box, City staff will coordinate with the artist to develop complementary artwork for the additional utility box configuration. Artists will also be contacted prior to implementation to confirm their interest and consent, and to coordinate any necessary modifications to fit new locations or configurations.

The estimated cost to implement artwork at the remaining locations is approximately $22,000, which includes artist stipends, vinyl production, installation, and related program costs.

RECOMMENDATION
It is recommended that the City Council:
1) Select and approve recommended designs for each utility box location as part of the 2025 Call for Artists for the City’s Utility Box Art Program.

4 2) Authorize City staff to retain and implement non-selected finalist artwork submissions from the 2025 Call for Artists at remaining City-owned utility box locations, subject to artist consent.
3) Approve a budget amendment in the amount of $22,000 for implementation of the remaining utility box locations.

FISCAL IMPACT
Phase two of the Utility Box Art Program is included in the Fiscal Year (FY) 2025-26 budget in the amount of $30,000. The total cost of the project would be approximately $52,000. There are sufficient funds in the Public Art account (1020-7721).

ATTACHMENTS
A. 2025 Call for Artists – Utility Box Artwork Recommendations B. Remaining City-Owned Utility Box Locations
Fiscal Review: Reviewed and Approved:

Kristen Petersen Brian Villalobos
Assistant City Manager/ City Manager
Director of Administrative Services

Attachment A
2025 Call for Artists
Utility Box Artwork Recommendations

Traffic Controller
Meter Pedestal
LOCATION #1
Traffic Controller
Meter Pedestal
Configuration: Traffic Controller and Meter Pedestal
Location: Southeast corner of Huntington Drive and Mountain Vista Plaza Art Box Subtheme: Route 66 – “Faces People” OR “Pop Culture & Entertainment“ Daniel Arias (“AR INK BMBRS”)
Route 66 – Then and Now
OPTION 1
Alexander Zakari (“ZLA”)
Tongva Tribe
OPTION 2

Daisy Carlene Villaseñor
Seeds of Our Descendants
OPTION 1 OPTION 2
Diana Vitoshka*
City in Bloom
LOCATION #2
Configuration: Traffic Controller and Meter Pedestal
Location: Southeast corner of Huntington Drive and Buena Vista Street Art Box Subtheme: Route 66 – “Faces People” OR “Pop Culture & Entertainment“

Traffic Controller
Meter Pedestal
Traffic Controller
Meter Pedestal
Victoria Jean Cruz (“La Bravart”)
Our Community in Bloom
OPTION 1
Cheyne Ellett
Heading Places
OPTION 2
LOCATION #3
Configuration: Traffic Controller and Meter Pedestal
Location: Southeast corner of Huntington Drive and Brycedale Avenue Art Box Subtheme: Route 66 – “Faces People” OR “Pop Culture & Entertainment“

Traffic Controller
Meter Pedestal
Taleen Janian
Duarte Cruzin
OPTION 1
Francisco Orellana
Human Kaleidoscope
OPTION 2
LOCATION #4
Configuration: Traffic Controller and Meter Pedestal
Location: Southeast corner of Huntington Drive and Pops Road Art Box Subtheme: Route 66 – “Faces People” OR “Pop Culture & Entertainment“

Traffic Controller
Meter Pedestal
Traffic Controller
Meter Pedestal
Britney Lin (“Myiimoo”)
Looking Bright & a Fruitful Past!
OPTION 1
Ana Hurtado-Villaseñor
Her Past, Present and Future
OPTION 2
LOCATION #5
Configuration: Traffic Controller and Meter Pedestal
Location: Southeast corner of Huntington Drive and Highland Avenue Art Box Subtheme: Route 66 – “Faces People” OR “Pop Culture & Entertainment“

Traffic Controller
Meter Pedestal
Rianna Titular
Paws on Route 66
OPTION 1
Joseph Stoddard
Duarte Urban Sketch
OPTION 2
LOCATION #6
Configuration: Traffic Controller and Meter Pedestal
Location: Southeast corner of Huntington Drive and Las Lomas Road Art Box Subtheme: Route 66 – “Faces People” OR “Pop Culture & Entertainment“

Omar Mejia
Route and Roots: Duarte, CA
OPTION 1 OPTION 2
Ricardo Cerezo (“Rix Cerezo”)
Sunday Drive
LOCATION #7
Configuration: Meter Pedestal Only
Location: 900 block of Huntington Drive (south-side)
Art Box Subtheme: Route 66 – “Faces People” OR “Pop Culture & Entertainment“

Jolyna Vicerra
LA Lovin’
OPTION 1 OPTION 2
Robert Lebsack
A Legacy of Rhythm
LOCATION #8
Configuration: Meter Pedestal Only
Location: Northwest corner of Huntington Drive and Brycedale Avenue Art Box Subtheme: Route 66 – “Faces People” OR “Pop Culture & Entertainment“

Diana Fung (on behalf of her son)
The Road to the Future
OPTION 1 OPTION 2
Sarah Soward
Horse Power
LOCATION #9
Configuration: Meter Pedestal Only
Location: 1551 Huntington Drive (north-side)
Art Box Subtheme: Route 66 – “Faces People” OR “Pop Culture & Entertainment“

Jared Wright
Vibrant Living
OPTION 1 OPTION 2
Alexander Moon (“Keith Choe”)
Citrus People
LOCATION #10
Configuration: Meter Pedestal Only
Location: 2400 block of Huntington Drive (north-side)
Art Box Subtheme: Route 66 – “Faces People” OR “Pop Culture & Entertainment“

Alexander Zakari (“ZLA”)
Orange Grove
OPTION 1 OPTION 2
Jolyna Vicerra
Desert Beauty
LOCATION #11
Configuration: Irrigation Control Box Only
Location: 900 block of Huntington Drive (median island) Art Box Subtheme: Route 66 – “Landscapes”
OPTION 3
Bianca Mimura
Hug Thy Neighbor

Daisy Carlene Villaseñor
Flora and Finch
OPTION 1 OPTION 2
Rebecca Horta
Greetings from Duarte
LOCATION #12
Configuration: Irrigation Control Box Only
Location: 1500 block of Huntington Drive (median island) Art Box Subtheme: Route 66 – “Landscapes”
OPTION 3
Sean Demalleville
SunFLOWer

Kim Gaeta
Living Together Along the Route - Version 1
OPTION 1 OPTION 2
Sarah Soward
Dancing Marigolds
LOCATION #13
Configuration: Irrigation Control Box Only
Location: 1900 block of Huntington Drive (median island) Art Box Subtheme: Route 66 – “Landscapes”

Tommy Lei
Infrared Cacti
OPTION 1 OPTION 2
Kim Gaeta
Living Together Along the Route - Version 2
LOCATION #14
Configuration: Irrigation Control Box Only
Location: 2400 block of Huntington Drive (median island) Art Box Subtheme: Route 66 – “Landscapes”

Emanuel Gomez
Sidewalk Bloom
OPTION 1 OPTION 2
Nick Hermida*
San Gabriel River Route 66
LOCATION #15
Configuration: Irrigation Control Box Only
Location: 2700 block of Huntington Drive (median island) Art Box Subtheme: Route 66 – “Landscapes”

Attachment B
Remaining City-Owned
Utility Box Locations

LOCATIONS

COMPLETED

PART OF
PHASE 2

TRAFFIC CONTROLLER

AND METER PEDESTAL

TRAFFIC CONTROLLER ONLY

Attachment B
Remaining City-Owned
Utility Box Locations

LOCATIONS

COMPLETED

PART OF
PHASE 2

TRAFFIC CONTROLLER

AND METER PEDESTAL

TRAFFIC CONTROLLER ONLY