The Design Review Board meeting held on July 24 in Laguna Beach focused on a proposed residential project at 2155 Temple Hills Drive, which has sparked community interest and concern. The meeting aimed to gather input on several key aspects of the project, including the proposed lighting, privacy issues, and the overall design's compliance with local development standards.

One of the primary discussions revolved around the installation of approximately 55 lights throughout the property, both in landscaped areas and on the building itself. Board members sought to determine whether this number was appropriate, too few, or excessive, highlighting the importance of balancing aesthetics with functionality in residential design.

Privacy and view equity were also significant topics of concern. Public comments indicated apprehensions regarding how the new construction might affect the views and privacy of neighboring properties. The board emphasized the need to deliberate on these issues to ensure that the project respects the visual and spatial rights of the community.

The architect for the project, Anders Lassiter, presented the design, which includes a 6,600 square foot home with an 800 square foot accessory dwelling unit (ADU), covered parking, and various outdoor amenities. He noted that the design was intentionally aligned with the existing home to minimize view impacts and that no variances were requested, indicating compliance with the development standards for the residential zone.

The board concluded the meeting by recommending a public hearing to gather further testimony from the applicant and community members. They plan to continue discussions on the project at a future date, seeking clarity on the lighting, privacy concerns, and the height of proposed hedges, which could affect public views from Temple Hills Drive.

This meeting underscores the ongoing dialogue between developers and the community in Laguna Beach, as residents seek to maintain the character and integrity of their neighborhoods amidst new developments. The board's careful consideration of public input reflects a commitment to ensuring that new projects align with community values and standards.