Design Review Commission approves two‑story home at 1019 S. Gladys Ave. with door, window conditions; sidewalk left to Public Works

The San Gabriel Design Review Commission on April 22 approved planning case SPR23‑100 to allow construction of a new two‑story single‑family residence at 1019 South Gladys Avenue, subject to conditions requiring design changes to the front entry and an additional lower‑floor bedroom window.

Staff presented the project as a 2,047‑square‑foot house (1,287 sq ft ground, 760 sq ft second floor) in an R‑1 zone, noting it met R‑1 development standards and was exempt from CEQA under Class 3 (Guideline 15303). Planning manager Samantha Tewasart told the commission the required neighborhood analysis covered properties within a 300‑foot radius and that the project met the city’s single‑family design guidelines. "Staff recommends that the design review commission adopt the resolution and approve planning case number SPR23‑100," she said.

Project designer Cayman Lai told commissioners the property has been a rental and the owner intends to return as an owner‑occupant once the house is rebuilt: "the owner is planning to move back to this house," he said. During questions, Lai and staff explained the driveway was placed on the south side to increase separation from a neighboring two‑story house and to improve light and drainage.

A nearby resident, Andrew, spoke in opposition and asked whether a new sidewalk would be required, noting the block currently lacks sidewalks in places. Samantha Tewasart said Public Works provides conditions addressing sidewalks and right‑of‑way plantings during plan check: "there is a condition of approval provided by the Public Works Department to address any requirements for the sidewalk as well as plantings within the right of way." The commission therefore deferred a final decision on a sidewalk to Public Works.

Commissioners focused much of the deliberation on the front door and window proportions. Multiple commissioners said the illustrated double‑arched door appeared oversized and suggested either a refined double‑door scaled to code or a single arched door with sidelights. Commissioner Tu recommended adding a second window to the lower‑floor bedroom to improve sunlight: "I would recommend to actually add additional window because it's also in a lower floor," he said.

Vice Chair Salas moved to approve the project on the condition the applicant work with the city architect to resolve the front‑door design and bedroom window, and the motion passed by roll call. A separate motion to require the applicant to add a sidewalk failed for lack of a second; the commission's approval therefore requires coordination with Public Works during plan checking and adoption of staff's recommended conditions.

The approved resolution directs the applicant to work with the city architect on final door and window details and leaves sidewalk design and any required public‑right‑of‑way improvements to Public Works review and approval during the permit phase. The applicant was told to begin coordination promptly to understand potential sidewalk cost implications.