A proposed development designed in the style of a courtyard apartment building could deliver 59 for-sale townhouse units to the North Central neighborhood of Pasadena.
Earlier this week, the Pasadena Design Commission conducted an advisory review of the project by Boise, Idaho-based developer Roundhouse. This was the third time the townhouse complex was critiqued by the Commission and they made several suggestions on how the design could be improved.
In its current state, the proposed project at 1307 Lincoln Avenue calls for 59 three-story homes with attached garages and private outdoor spaces. Designed by Inaba Williams Architecture, the development takes its cues from courtyard housing in Pasadena, incorporating common open space for “gathering, recreation and respite.” In true City of Gardens style, these areas would feature lush landscaping and meandering pathways.
The design details are intended to “reference Pasadena’s architectural heritage,” touting rounded building corners, textured stucco, recessed windows and door frames, wood accents and simple massing.
Woonerfs, a Dutch term that loosely translates to “living streets,” would be shared among automobiles, bicycles and pedestrians, encouraging neighborly interactions and spontaneous soccer games. Two types of pavers would also be used to differentiate play areas and pedestrian zones.
To enliven the streetscape, breeze block walls would be constructed along Lincoln Avenue with climbing vines and brightly-colored blooms. Extensive arcades would be used to create a smooth transition between the units and interior landscapes, with the added benefit of providing shelter from the elements.
There would be a total of three residential courtyards, along with a public outdoor space at the corner of Lincoln and Washington complete with bench seating. Despite its abundance of open space, the Design Commission noted that the proposed project “continues to be driven by and heavily emphasizes vehicular access and circulation, which is contrary to all applicable design guidelines.”
The 2.4-acre site is located a mile away from Rose Bowl Stadium and is currently occupied by a mix of one-story commercial, industrial and residential buildings. If the development is ultimately approved, future residents would live in a neighborhood abundant with local schools, historic homes, golf courses and parkland.
