Commission approves small terrace infill at 2760 Divisadero after privacy and construction concerns

The Planning Commission approved a discretionary infill and terrace extension at 2760 Divisadero on Nov. 10, after a hearing that included neighbor testimony about construction impacts, privacy and sunlight.

Sponsor architect Stephen Sutro and the owner presented a modest extension of an existing terrace into a portion of the required rear‑yard open space. Neighbors objected to the extension’s proximity to a neighbor’s bedroom windows, potential nighttime noise and light, and ongoing construction nuisance during deep foundation work. The sponsor demonstrated a compromise wedge design that introduces a non‑occupiable planted buffer (a trapezoidal planter) that increases the occupiable setback from the neighbor facade to between roughly 7'10" and 11'7" at points along the new terrace edge.

Staff and the commission reviewed the context (narrow passage between facades, staggered elevations up the hill) and concluded the stepped planter compromise preserved light, air and reasonable privacy while allowing the modest family‑room/kitchen infill use. Commissioners noted the project’s construction had been lengthy and disruptive, but that the terrace design and the planter buffer were appropriate mitigations. The commission voted unanimously to approve the project with the proposed details.