HomeMy WebLinkAbout7/18/2007 - STAFF REPORTS - 1.C. U
CITY COUNCIL STAFF REPORT
DATE. JULY 18, 2007 PUBLIC HEARING
SUBJECT: CASE HSPB #52: APPLICATION FOR DESIGNATION OF THE PROPERTY
AT 588 SOUTH PALM CANYON DRIVE (FORMER CITY NATIONAL BANK)
BANK OF AMERICA BUILDING A CLASS 1 HISTORIC SITE
FROM: David H. Ready, City Manager
BY: The Planning Department
SUMMARY
Under Section 8.05 of the Palm Springs Municipal Code (Historic Resources), the City Council
may designate properties as "Class V historic sites. The City's Historic Site Preservation
Board (RSPB) has recommended such a designation for the property at 588 South Palm
Canyon Drive "The City National Bank / Bank of America Building". The Council will conduct a
public hearing and determine if the site and building should be designated. Class 1
designation would place the building under the guidance of Municipal Code Section 8.05
"Historic Preservation".
RECOMMENDATION
Adopt Resolution No. "A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF
PALM SPRINGS, CALIFORNIA DESIGNATING THE BUILDING AT 588 SOUTH PALM
CANYON DRIVE, "THE CITY NATIONAL BANK BUILDING" A CLASS ONE HISTORIC SITE."
PROJECT DESCRIPTION
The City of Palm Springs, via the Historic Site Preservation Board has filed an application
requesting the structure at the subject property be designated a Class I historic site. Such
designation would.
1. Place the subject property under the guidance of Municipal Code Section 8.05
2. Require present and subsequent owners to maintain the site consistent with that
ordinance,
ITEM NO. ��
City Counal Staff Report July 18, 2007
Case: RSPB No. 52/588 S. Palm Canyon Drive Page 2 of 3
3. Grant possible property tax reduction opportunities to the owner under the State of
California Mills Act.
A full project description, historic assessment report and Staffs findings and recommendations
can be found in the attached staff report to the Historic Site Preservation Board dated June 12,
2007,
RECENT PRIOR ACTIONS
On Tuesday, June 12, 2007, the Historic Site Preservation Board voted 6-0-2 to recommend
that City Council designate the City National Bank / Bank of America Building at 588 South
Palm Canyon Drive a Class I Historic Site in accordance with Municipal Code Section 8.05.
HSPB Resolution #52 is attached.
ANALYSIS
The City National Bank Building (now Bank of America) was constructed in 1959 and designed
by Rudy Baumfeld of Victor Gruen & Associates of Beverly Hills. Its design, reminiscent of the
Chapel at Ronchamp, France, by world renowned architect Le Corbusier, is best described as
"Expressionistic Modern" because of its free-form sculptural quality.
Detailed findings relative to the City Municipal Code Section 8.05 Historic Preservation in
support of the designation recommendation are identified and explained in the HSPB staff
report and are summarized as follows-
1- The building is significant because of its expressionist modern design, its setting
among a group of architecturally significant banks reflective of the 1950's era, and its
sculptural, aesthetic effect.
2. The building reflects or exemplifies the post-war 'mid-century' period of the national,
state, and local history in which distinctive "modern" architecture reflected societies'
optimism in the future and confidence in the ability of new technologies to improve
life.
3. The building embodies distinctive characteristics of a type, or period of architecture
that was prevalent in the 1950's. It is particularly distinctive and unique in its
sculptural quality and considered a "one-of-a kind" design statement.
4. The building presents the work of a master builder, artist, and architect, Rudy
Baumfeld, whose individual genius influenced his age, and possesses high artistic
value.
The present owner, Bank of America, supports the nomination to Class 1 status as indicated in
their e mail attached to this report. The staff report to the HSPB with analysis and findings are
attached.
L
City Council Staff Report July 18, 2007
Case: HSPB No 52/588 S. Palm Canyon Drive Page 3 of 3
NOTIFICATION
Pursuant to section 8.05.140 of the Municipal Code of Palm Springs, All property owners within
three hundred (400) feet of the subject property have been notified and notice was published in
a newspaper of general circulation. As of the writing of this report, staff as not received any
inquiries on this matter.
FISCAL IMPACT: Finance Director Review!
No fiscal impact.
Zr- n
ai win9, A :f I P Thomas . Wi n
Director of Plan Services Assistant Ci onager, pev't Svcs
David H. Ready
City Manager
ATTACHMENTS
1. Draft City Council Resolution
2. HSPB staff report dated June 12, 2007
3. HSPB meeting minutes dated June 12, 2007
4. Resolution #52 of the HSPB
5. Vicinity Map
6. Letter of Support from Owner (e mail dated April 6, 2007)
7. Historic Resources Report on City National Bank and Photos
8. Historic Site Preservation Board minutes of December 12,2006
9. Lyon to Owners letter dated December 5, 2006
10. Historic Site Designation Application dated 12-1-06
11. 2004 Citywide Historic Resources Sheets on City National Bank
RESOLUTION NO.
OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PALM
SPRINGS, CALIFORNIA DESIGNATING THE BUILDING
AT 588 SOUTH PALM CANYON DRIVE, "THE CITY
NATIONAL BANK BUILDING' A CLASS ONE HISTORIC
SITE.
WHEREAS, Chapter 8.05 of the Palm Springs Municipal Code allows for the designation of
historic sites; and
WHEREAS, on January 9, 2007, the Historic Site Preservation Board initiated an application
for historic site designation of 588 South Palm Canyon Drive; and
WHEREAS, notice of a public hearing of the Historic Site Preservation Board of the City of
Palm Springs to consider designation of 588 South Palm Canyon Drive as a Class 1 historic
site was issued in accordance with applicable law; and
WHEREAS, on June 12, 2007, the Historic Site Preservation Board conducted a public
hearing in accordance with applicable law to consider designation of 588 South Palm
Canyon Drive as a Class 1 historic site; and
WHEREAS, at said hearing, the HSPB adopted Resolution #52 to recommend to City
Council designation of the building at 588 South Palm Canyon Drive as a Class 1 historic
site; and
WHEREAS, notice of a public hearing of the City Council of the City of Palm Springs to
consider designation of 588 South Palm Canyon Drive, as a Class 1 historic site was issued
in accordance with applicable law; and
WHEREAS, on July 18, 2007 the City Council conducted a public hearing in accordance with
applicable law to consider designation of 588 South Palm Canyon Drive as a Class 1 historic
site; and
WHEREAS, the designation of 588 South Palm Canyon Drive shall further the purpose and
intent of Chapter 8.05; and
WHEREAS, the designation of 588 South Palm Canyon Drive promotes the sensitive
preservation of said site; and
WHEREAS, in accordance with the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), the
designation of a historic site is categorically exempt from environmental review pursuant to
Section 15331 for the preservation of historical resources; and
WHEREAS, the City Council has carefully reviewed and considered all of the evidence in
connection with the designation, including but not limited to the staff report, application and
connection with the designation, including but not limited to the staff report, application and
historical research, all written and oral testimony presented and notes the following:
1. In 1959, The City National Bank of Beverly Hills commissioned the Beverly Hills office of
Victor Gruen Associates Architects to design a branch bank at 588 South Palm Canyon
Drive in Palm Springs.
2. The defining historic characteristics of this building are its mid-century modern
architecture, characterized as "expressionist modern". The sculptural quality of the
exterior volume of the bank building, use of smooth plaster with rounded surfaces and
edges, large panels of "Byzantine blue" mosaic tile, large expanses of aluminum and
glass curtainwall along the north and west facades, the cantilevered 'floating' terrazzo
"plinth" base, its clean un-decorated and un-ornamented surfaces, and wide
overhanging roof planes. The building stands as a very good example of revolutionary
thinking in commercial banking of its time, in which the typical heavy, temple-like
traditional style of banks was cast aside in favor of unconventional and dramatic new
concepts in architecture.
3. The automatic teller machine shelter, located on the north side of the building is
considered complementary to the historic character. However, this element is not part
of the defining historic characteristics of the site because it is not part of the original
design and construction of the building and it was not installed during the historic period
related to the site and building.
THE CITY COUNCIL DOES HEREBY RESOLVE:
SECTION 1: Pursuant to CEQA, the City Council finds that the designation of the building
at 588 South Palm Canyon Drive as a Class 1 historic site is categorically exempt from
environmental review pursuant to Section 15331 whereby this designation is for the
preservation of a historical resource.
SECTION 2: The Council does hereby make the following findings;
The City National Bank / Bank of America Building reflects or exemplifies a
particular period of the national, state or local history,
The City National Bank / Bank of America Building is an excellent example of mid-century
modern architecture in an "expressionistic modern idiom" as applied to a commercial bank
building. It embodies the optimism and faith in technology and the future that was prevalent
in the country during the period following World War II. It presents a visionary idea that a
structure for banking could be a sculptural expressive structure in a very human scale
instead of the usual heavy classical architectural forms that typified bank buildings in
previous eras are embodied in this structure.
It is an important member of a collection of buildings in this vicinity that developed in the
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fifties and sixties as Palm Springs "financial district"; including the Santa Fe Federal Savings
Bank, Coachella Valley Savings Bank (Washington Mutual), Coachella Savings & Loan
(Prudential), Union Bank of California, Guaranty Bank, and Wells Fargo. This collection of
financial institutions are all located on or near Palm Canyon Drive which was, at the time,
the hub of commercial activity in the Coachella Valley. Each bank sought to capture
customers by creating a significant presence through the use of outstanding architecture.
This notion of 'advertising through architecture' is clearly evident in this collection of
buildings, including the City National Bank/ Bank of America Building.
The City National Bank / Bank of America Building embodies the distinctive
characteristics of a type, period or method of construction,-
This site presents a rare and unique example of "Expressionist Modern" architecture from
the Mid-century Modern period of architecture because
a) It is a building whose overall volume is almost more sculptural than "building-like".
The rounded and curvilinear surfaces soften the appearance of the building.
b) Although clearly modern in its style, it is unique in that it does not adhere to the usual
rigorous structure proportioning grid to define its shape or size that is typical in more
"rationalist or mannerist" modern architecture.
c) It is reflective of its own time, not a copy of earlier styles or cultures.
d) It is devoid of applied decoration or ornamentation.
e) It possesses the following defining historic characteristics or elements:
1) The overall sculptural quality of the exterior volume of the building.
2) The long, uninterrupted cantilevered roof structure on the west and north
facades,
3) The muted colors and smooth plaster rounded surfaces and planes of the walls
and roof overhangs,
4) The 'volume' of Byzantine blue mosaic tile created at the southern end of the
building and used within the three openings on the east elevation,
5) The cantilevered terrazzo base or 'floating' floor slab,
The inspiration for its proportion and form can clearly be traced to an important historic
structure of the modern movement: the Chapel Notre Dame du Haut in Ronchamp, France
by internationally renowned architect Le Corbusier from 1954; yet the City National Bank
building stands on its own merits, singularly unique and very artistic in its form and overall
design.
The City National Bank / Bank of America Building presents the work of a
master builder, designer, artist, or architect whose individual genius
influenced his age; or that possesses high artistic value;
The City National Bank/ Bank of America Building was designed by Rudy Baumfeld of Victor
Gruen Associates Architects of Beverly Hills, who is credited with having designed the first
two story shopping center in the United States. The building demonstrates Mr. Baumfelds'
artistic talent as a designer and architect and his ability to translate the functional
requirements for this bank into a beautiful structure with sculptural-like qualities.
SECTION 3: Based upon the foregoing, the City Council does hereby designate the City
National Bank Building at 588 South Palm Canyon Drive, Palm Springs, California as a
Class 1 Historic Site subject to the following conditions;
1. The property owner shall permit the City to demark the building as a historic site
with a marker of the City's choosing. The historic marker shall be placed in a
location visible from the public right-of-way. The owner shall maintain the marker in
the location installed and pay for the replacement cost if the marker is lost, stolen,
or otherwise removed from the property.
2. All future exterior modifications including but not limited to building, site,
landscaping, lighting, walls, and fences shall require Architectural Approval
pursuant to Section 94.04.00 of the Palm Springs Zoning Ordinance and Historic
Site Preservation Board review pursuant Municipal Code Ordinance 8.05.180.
3. No permit for the alteration of the exterior, including signage and any and all of the
defining elements and characteristics shall be issued without prior approval by the
Historic Site Preservation Board.
4. That the City Clerk submits the Council Resolution to the County recorder for
recordation within 90 days of the effective date of this resolution.
5. All existing or previously approved alterations shall be considered acceptable.
ADOPTED THIS —th day of , 2007.
David H, Ready, City Manager
ATTEST:
James Thompson, City Clerk
CERTIFICATION
STATE OF CALIFORNIA )
COUNTY OF RIVERSIDE ) ss.
CITY OF PALM SPRINGS )
I, JAMES THOMPSON, City Clerk of the City of Palm Springs, hereby certify that
Resolution No. _ is a full, true and correct copy, and was duly adopted at a regular
meeting of the City Council of the City of Palm Springs on
by the following vote:
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
ABSTAIN:
James Thompson, City Clerk
City of Palm Springs, California
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING
CITY COUNCIL
CITY OF PALM SPRINGS, CALIFORNIA
Proposed Designation of 588 South Palm Canyon Drive
as Class 1 Historic Site and Notice of Exemption from CEQA
Applicant. The City of Palm Springs
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the City Council of the City of Palm Springs, California, will hold a
public hearing at its meeting of July 18, 2007. The City Council meeting begins at 6:00 pm., in the
Council Chamber at City Hall, 3200 East Tahquitz Canyon Way, Palm Springs.
The purpose of the hearing is to consider designation of the building located at 588 South Palm
Canyon Drive as a Class 1 Historic Site.
ENVIRONMENTAL DETERMINATION: This request is categorically exempt from review pursuant to
Section 15331 (Historical Resource Restoration/Rehabilitation) of the California Environmental
Quality Act (CEQA), whereas the proposed designation meets the conditions outlined for preservation
of a historic resource. The application is available for public review in the Department of Planning
Services, City Hall, 3200 East Tahquitz Canyon Way, Palm Springs.
REVIEW OF PROJECT INFORMATION: The staff report and other supporting documents regarding
this project are also available for public review at City Hall between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 5:00
p.m. Monday through Friday. Please contact the Office of the City Clerk at (760) 323-8204 if you
would like to schedule an appointment to review these documents.
COMMENT ON THIS APPLICATION: Response to this notice may be made verbally at the Public
Hearing and/or in writing before the hearing. Written comments may be made to the City Council by
letter (for mail or hand delivery) to:
James Thompson, City Clerk
3200 East Tahquitz Canyon Way
Palm Springs, CA 92262
Any challenge of the proposed project in court may be limited to raising only those issues raised at
the public hearing described in this notice or in written correspondence delivered to the City Clerk at,
or prior to, the City Council hearing. (Government Code Section 65009[b][2]). An opportunity will be
given at said hearing for all interested persons to be heard. Questions regarding this case may be
directed to Ken Lyon, Department of Planning Services at (760)323-8245.
Si necesita ayuda con esta carta, porfavor Ilame a la Ciudad de Palm Springs y puede hablar con
Nadine Fieger telefono (760) 323-8245.
?Js ompson, City Clerk_
o4 PAtiM SA*
Department of Planning Services
,..,.., Vicinity Map
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CITY OF PALM SPRINGS
CASE NO: HSPB #52 DESCRIPTION: Recommendation to designate 588
South Palm Canyon Drive, "The City National
APPLICANT: City of Palm Springs Bank/Bank of America Building a Class 1 Historic Site
#52-
OF PALM Sp?
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C-Ity ®f Palm Springs
* Office of the City Cleric
cO" o,r,co'`�y 3200 P.Tahquirz Canyon Way • Palm Springs,California 92262
Cg2IF0Rr"�P Tel: (760) ;23-8204 ^ Pax: (760) 322-5322 • Web,www.palmsprings-ca gov
AFFIDAVIT
OF
MAILING NOTICES
I, the undersigned City Clerk of the City of Palm Springs, California, do hereby
certify that a copy of the Notice of Public Hearing, to consider designation of the
building located at 588 South Palm Canyon Drive as a Class 1 Historic Site, was
mailed to each and every person set forth on the attached list on or before the 6th
day of July, 2007, in a sealed envelope, with postage prepaid, and depositing
same in the U.S. Mail at Palm Springs, California.
(50 notices mailed)
I declare under penalty of perjury that the foregoing is true and correct.
Dated at Palm Springs, California, this 11th day of July 2007.
ES THOMPSON
ity Clerk
/kdh
Affidavit HSP652 07.18-07.doc
Post Office Box 2743 • Palm Springs, California 92263-2743
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Historic Site Preservation Board
Staff Report
Date: June 12, 2007
Case No.: HSPB — 52 City National Bank— Bank of America Building
Application Type: Class 1 Designation Application
Location: 588 South Palm Canyon Drive
Applicant: The City of Palm Springs
Zone: C-1 (Central Business Retail Zone)
General Plan: CBD (Central Business District)
APN: 513-280-004
From: Ken Lyon, Associate Planner
PROJECT DESCRIPTION
An application by The Historic Site Preservation Board of the City of Palm Springs to
recommend to City Council designation of 588 South Palm Canyon Drive "The City
National Bank / Bank of America Building" as a Class 1 historic site. Such designation
would:
1. Place the subject property under the guidance of Municipal Code Section 8.05
2. Require present and subsequent owners to maintain the building consistent with
that ordinance,
3. Grant passible property tax reduction opportunities to the owner under the State
of California Mills Act.
cn1�1
Historic Site Preservation Board Staff Report Page 2 of 8
Case HSPB-52
Date June 12,2007
RECOMMENDATION
That the Historic Site Preservation Board (HSPB) recommend approval to the City
Council designating 588 South Palm Canyon Drive a Class 1 Historic Site. A draft
resolution is attached for consideration.
PRIOR ACTIONS
On Tuesday, January 8, 2007 the Board initiated the study and investigation of this site
for possible recommendation to City Council for Class 1 designation.
On Friday April 6, 2007, Staff received an a mail from Bank of America in support of the
designation of the exterior of the building as a Class 1 historic site (e mail attached).
BACKGROUND AND SETTING
Definition of an Historic Site.
Section 8.05.020 of the Municipal Code provides the definition of an historic site as
follows;
(a) Historic Site.
An historic site is any real property such as: a building; a structure, including but
not limited to archways, tiled areas and similar architectural elements; an archaeological
excavation or object that is unique or significant because of its location, design, setting,
materials, workmanship or aesthetic effect and:
i. That is associated with events that have made a meaningful contribution to the
nation, state or community, or
2. That is associated with lives of persons who made meaningful contribution to
national, state or local history; or
3. That reflects or exemplifies a particular period of the national, state or local
history; or
4. That embodies the distinctive characteristics of a type, period or method of
construction; or
5. That presents the work of a master builder, designer, artist, or architect whose
individual genius influenced his age; or that possesses high artistic value; or
6. That represents a significant and distinguishable entity whose components may
lack individual distinction; or
7. That has yielded or may be likely to yield information important to national, state
or local history or prehistory.
A Class 1 Historic Site may also qualify for historic designation at the federal, state
and/or county level.
2 L�� �,
Historic Site Preservation Board Staff Report Page 3 of 3
Case HSPB-52
Date June 12.2007
Desianatio_n of Historic Sites.
The City Council is authorized to designate Historic Sites. The Historic Site
Preservation Board may recommend to the City Council that certain sites be designated
as Historic Sites in accordance with Section 8.05.135 of the Municipal Code. The Board
may initiate studies, surveys and investigations it deems necessary to adequately
gather information in consideration of a recommendation.
Conditions that 212PIV to Class 1 Historic Sites.
According to Section 8.05 of the Municipal Code, the following shall apply to a Class 1
Historic Site;
1. It shall meet the definition of an historic site as outlined in Municipal Code
Section 8.05.020.
2. An archival file shall be maintained on the property by the City.
3. It may be qualified as 'historic' at the federal, state, and/or county level.
4. The structure/site may not be modified nor objects removed without the approval
of the City Council.
5. The use may be limited by the City Council to the extent that it may impair the
integrity of the site.
6. A plaque explaining the historic nature of the site will be installed at the site.
7. Compliance with all rules and regulations for Historic Sites and Historic Districts
under Article IV of Chapter 8.05 of the Municipal Code shall be required.
DESCRIPTION AND ANALYSIS
The site is a 1.13 acre triangular-shaped parcel in the Central Business District, Zone C-
1 located at the convergence of South Palm Canyon Drive, South Indian Canyon Drive
and Camino Parocela at the southern end of the downtown district of Palm Springs.
The building is located at the southern end of an area of several financial institutions
and commercial buildings. To the north is a three story commercial office building ("The
Ladd Building"), to the south is a large commercial strip center, to the east is a series of
modest-sized commercial retail buildings, and to the west is a commercial retail building
and financial institution.
Completed in 1959, the design of the building at 588 South Palm Canyon Drive is
credited to Rudy Baumfeld (1903 — 1988) of the architectural firm Victor Gruen
Associates of Beverly Hills. It was constructed as a branch office for The City National
Bank of Beverly Hills. The building's designer Rudy Baumfeld is credited for designing
the first two-level shopping mall in America in Southdale, Minnesota. The building's
design is influenced by internationally renowned architect Le Corbusier's Ronchamp
Chapel, built five years earlier in France. The designer also acknowledged an influence
from the soft-edged adobe architecture found throughout the desert region of the
southwest.
3 �1r1
Historic Site Preservation Board Staff Report Page 4 of 8
Case HSPS-52
Date June 12,2007
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4 �Y7
Historic Site Preservation Board Staff Report Page 5 of 8
Case HSPB-52
Date June 12,2007
The building, a dramatic departure from conventional bank buildings usually built in neo-
classical styles and heavy in their massing, is a light, glassy, expressionistic structure
reflecting the spirit of innovation and optimism that prevailed in post World War II
America.
The City National Bank Building is an excellent example of"Expressionistic Modernism".
Whereas modernism is often associated with clean, rectilinear geometries, a "machine-
like aesthetic" and strict adherence to a repetitive dimensional structural grid and
module, this building reflects a more organic, free-form "romantic" type of modernism
with softened edges, rounded shapes, irregular farms and a clearly "sculptural" quality
to its volume.
The building is placed on a thin, raised plane of white terrazzo that overhangs the
foundation wall below it, giving it a "floating" appearance. Bright "Byzantine blue"
mosaic tile are used on the rounded volume at the south end of the building that
contains the bank vault and originally this bright blue surface also wrapped the interior
surfaces giving the appearance of a massive "block" that kept the bank patrons assets
"safe and sound". The same bright blue was also used in three deeply recessed
openings cut into the flat wall on the east fagade that effectively create a "layered"
effect. Bright yellow mosaic tiles were also originally used on the west fagade beneath
the window wall. The "one-of-a-kind" sculptural quality of the City National / Bank of
America Building anchors the southern end of the downtown more like a piece of `public
art' than as merely a utilitarian bank building.
In order to assess the building's historic value, a report was prepared on the history and
architecture which is attached. The City National Bank / Bank of America Building is
historically significant in the following ways:
1) With its free-form shape, sculptural volume and curvilinear surfaces, it represents an
excellent example of "Expressionistic Modernism" Different from the rational, grid-
based buildings prevalent in Mid-century modern architecture, the City National /
Bank of America Building is a notable example of a more romanticized type of
modernism from this same period.
2) It is a radical departure from the traditional fortress-like bank structures modeled
after classical temples. City National Bank/ Bank of America's building conveyed an
image of a sculptural "object" with open glassy surfaces balanced with artistic
architectural sun screens of masonry and aluminum.
3) The inspiration for its proportion and form can clearly be traced to important historic
structures in the modern movement, most notably the Chapel Notre Dame du Haut
in Ronchamp, France by internationally acclaimed French/Swiss architect Le
Corbusier from 1954.
4) It was designed by Rudy Baumfeld of the Victor Gruen & Associates architectural
firm of Beverly Hills, who is credited with designing the first two-story shopping mall
in the United States and several notable buildings in Southern California , including
the South Coast Plaza in Costa Mesa, the 22-story Tishman Building in downtown
Los Angeles and many I. Magnin department stores throughout the southwest.
5 �F,.�
Historic Site Preservation board Staff Report Page s of a
Case HSPB-52
Date June 12,2007
5) It is an important member of a collection of buildings in this vicinity that comprise
Palm Springs "financial district" including the Santa Fe Federal Savings Bank,
Coachella Valley Savings Bank (Washington Mutual), Coachella Savings & Loan
(Prudential), Union Bank of California, Guaranty Bank, and Wells Fargo. This
collection of financial institutions are all located on or near the intersection of Ramon
and Palm Canyon Drive which was, at the time, the hub of commercial activity in the
Coachella Valley. Each bank sought to capture customers by creating a significant
presence through the use of outstanding architecture.
REQUIRED FINDINGS
As noted above in Background and Setting, Section 8.05.020 of the Municipal Code
provides the definition of an historic site:
"An historic site is any real property such as: a building, a structure,
including but not limited to archways, tiled areas and similar architectural
elements; an archaeological excavation or object that is unique or
significant because of its location, design, setting, materials, workmanship
or aesthetic effect .
Based on the above analysis and research report, staff has concluded that the City
National / Bank of America Building at 588 South Palm Canyon Drive meets the
definition of a historic site because of its location, design, setting, materials,
workmanship and aesthetic effect. Seven other qualities are listed in the Ordinance for
determining a historic site, and staff has concluded that three of the seven qualities, #3,
#4, and #5, can be found in the City National / Bank of America Building, as follows;
3. That reflects or exemplifies a particular period of the national, state or local
history; or
The City National / Bank of America Building embodies the post World War II period in
Unites States history because it embodies the optimism for the future, the possibilities
of modern architecture, materials and technology to provide solutions to the
complexities of contemporary life that was widely embraced in the American culture
following World War II.
The City National / Bank of America Building further embodies this era in that it
represents a radical departure from the heavy, neo-classical temple-like style of
architecture typically used prior to this period for banks and financial institutions. The
image of a financial institution as a light, airy, human-scaled, sculptural pavilion was
revolutionary and demonstrated that institutions did not need to rely on classical
architectural farms or historic styles to validate or establish themselves.
4. That embodies the distinctive characteristics of a type, period or method
of construction;
6 n
Historic Site Preservation Board Staff Repoli Page 7 of 8
Case HSPB-52
Date June 12,2007
The City National / Bank of America Building is a particularly unique example of mid-
century modern architecture because:
a. Its design characterizes the "Expressionistic Modern" idiom, and possess
a sculptural, almost artistic or 'object-like" quality .
b. Its use of smooth plaster, with curved surfaces and no sharp corners or
edges captured the aesthetic of the southwestern adobe architecture in a
very abstract way ,
c. It is free of applied ornamentation and decorative motifs,
d. It its adeptly oriented to its site, using a variety of solar control devices,
including masonry sun shades, aluminum sun shades, north facing
expanses of glass, and long roof overhangs that shield the western-facing
glass that opens the interior to the views of the mountains,
e. Its aesthetic can be clearly traced to the The Chapel Notre Dame du Haut
in Ronchamp, France, finished in 1954 by the world renowned
international modernist architect Le Corbusier.
Because of its object-like sculptural quality, Staff has concluded that the entire exterior
volume and surfaces of the City National / Bank of America Building could be
considered its defining historic characteristics. This would include the smooth curved
plaster walls and surfaces, architectural sun screens on the eastern fagade, the large
cantilevered roof overhangs, the large expanses of glass on the north and west
facades, the Byzantine blue mosaic tile on the south and eastern facades, and the
terrazzo "floating base".
5. That presents the work of a master builder, designer, artist, or architect
whose individual genius influenced his age, or that possesses high artistic
value;
The City National Bank / Bank of America Building presents the work of architectural
designer Rudy Baumfeld, who is credited for designing the first two story shopping mall
in Southdale, Minnesota. Baumfeld and the architectural firm of Victor Gruen &
Associates were prolific in the fifties, sixties and seventies and recognized for their work
in commercial and retail architectural commissions throughout the country.
The exterior of the structure is largely intact and in excellent condition. The aluminum
sun screens originally on the west side of the building no longer exist nor does the
Byzantine mosaic tile fountain. A group of automatic teller machines and their
enclosure have been installed on the north fagade of the building. While not part of the
original design, the ATM enclosure blends in and complements the sculptural quality of
the building, however these elements are not part of the defining characteristics of the
building.
Staff contacted Bank of America to inquire whether the aluminum sun screens and the
mosaic tile fountain exist, and/or may be something that the Bank would consider
replicating and reinstalling. The Bank has informed Staff that at this time it is not the
7
Historic Site Preservation Board Staff Report Page 8 of 8
Case HSPB-52
Date June 12,2007
Bank's intent to do so. Staff has further concluded that the absence of these elements,
while unfortunate, does not materially diminish the overall historic importance of the site.
ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT
In accordance with Section 15331 (Historical Resources Restoration/Rehabilitation) of
the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), the proposed designation is
categorically exempt from environmental review as the proposed designation meets the
conditions outlined for preservation of a historic resource.
NOTIFICATION
Pursuant to section 8.05.140 of the Municipal Code of Palm Springs, All property
owners within three hundred (300) feet of the subject property have been notified and
notice was made in a newspaper of general circulation. As of the writing of this report,
staff has n t received any inquiries on this matter.
Ken Lyo , Assoc ate Planner
Cr A w g, AICP, irector of Planning Services
ATTACHMENTS
1. Vicinity Map
2. Draft Resolution
3. Letter of Support from Owner (e mail dated April 6, 2007)
4. Historic Resources Report on City National Bank and Photos
5. Historic Site Preservation Board minutes of December 12,2006
6. Lyon to Owners letter dated December 5, 2006
7. Historic Site Designation Application dated 12-1 06
8. 2004 Citywide Historic Resources Sheets on City National Bank
8 �
CITY OF PALM SPRINGS
HISTORIC SITE PRESERVATION BOARD MEETING
Minutes of Meeting -Tuesday, June 12, 2007
Large Conference Roam, City Hall, 3200 East Tahquitz Canyon Way
Palm Springs, California 92262
FY 2006-2007
Present Present Excused Absences
BOARD MEMBERS This Meeting Year-to-Date To-Date
Sidney Williams, Chairperson X 13 0
Jade Nelson, Vice Chair X 11 2
James Hayton X 11 2
John Williams X 12 1
Harold "Bud" Riley X 13 0
Brian Strahl X 11 0
Sheila Grattan X 1 0
Shelly Saunders X 1 0
STAFF PRESENT:
Ken Lyon, Associates Planner Loretta Moffett, Administrative Assistant
1, The HSPB regularly scheduled meeting was called to order at 8:16 a m. on Tuesday, June 11,
2007, by Chair Sidney Williams.
2. ROLL CALL: Present: S. Williams, J. Nelson, B. Riley, B. Strahl, J. Williams, J. Hayton,
S. Grattan (new), and S. Saunders (new)
3. REPORT OF POSTING OF AGENDA: This Agenda was available and posted in accordance with state and
local procedures for public access at the City Hall exterior bulletin board and the Department of Planning Services
counter by 4:00 p.m.Thursday,June 7,2007.
NOTE: Audio Cassettes DVDs of HSPB Meetings are available for review. Cassettes will be kept for six months
only, pVps of the meetings will kept indefinitely.
4. PUBLIC COMMENTS: (3 minutes) - N E
5. APPROVAL OF MINUTES: Board member elson asked for the following corrections: Page
2, Item 8.A "monument type, unlit sign_"; page 3 and Public Comments, first#3, should be #2; sixth
paragraph "Board member Nelson reported that the g�a e isoriginal..."; page 4 under Public
Comments Roxann Ploss...."one of the small cottages an Olympic...'; Chair S. Williams
advised that on Page 5, Item 10.B. Russell Wright, desi ner of o and interior Dods" should be
noted.
M/S/C (Riley/J. Williams) moved to approve the May 8, 2007 Minutes as corr ed (5 Yes,
0 No, 0 Absent, 1 Abstention, Advisory new members Grattan and Saunders).
Historic Site Preservation Board Page 2 of 7
Minutes from the June 12,2007 Meeting
6. R ORT FROM THE CHAIR: Chair S. Williams welcomed new Board members Sheila Grattafi
and elly Saunders. /
Chair S. Wi li s reported that at the May 23 HSPB joint study session with the C �Council, the
Council decline o make the HSPB recommended revisions to the Historic Ordinance. Their
recommendation wa for HSPB to expand the educational efforts and oppQrtClties to those who
are interested in classi 'ng their properties. HSPB needs to determine what can be done to
expand its educational o teach to the community to encouragedclass 1 designations and
preservation of properties. The `ert Sun has been running a series of articles about the historic
marker installation of six different properties that is currently�.tri8ferway. She s a letter to the Desert
Sun would be worthwhile thanking them fpr the coverage-and to clarify that these properties were
designated over a period of time and wereiist now IpaGing historic markers installed.
The Board unanimously agreed to Chair S. Wilram sting this letter.
New Board members Grattan and S nders introduced the selves and gave a brief explanation of
their interests in preservation.
Chair S. Williams than ed James (Jim) Hayton for all the work an ontributions he's made in
behalf of the Board storic preservation, and the community, as well as t ay"good-bye".
Departing B rd member Hayton commented that he would also cherish his time the Board and
helpin preserve some of the City's historic properties.
off member Lyon also thanked Jim for all his contributions, staff appreciated working with him_
�y 7. PUBLIC HEARINGS:
A. Case No. HSPB #52 - Application for Class 1 Designation of the City National Bank
Building / Bank of America, 588 South Palm Canyon Drive
Staff member Ken Lyon reported that Bank of America e-mailed their support of the designation of
this property — a copy is included in the staff report in the Board packet. He briefly summarized,
information contained in the extensive staff report. The Board action for today would be to
recommend to City Council that this property be designated as a Class 1 Historic Site - #52 at their
July 18, 2007 Council meeting.
PUBLIC COMMENTS:
Tony Merchel, Board member of Palm Springs Modern Committee, spoke in behalf of
ModCom's support of the Class 1 designation for the City National Bank building, and gave
information about Rudy Baumfeld's work. The decorative screen on the second floor of the
north fagade was a site-specific design by San Diego artist, Malcolm Leland who designed
architectural screens and elements primarily in San Diego,
PUBLIC COMMENTS CLOSED.
Staff member Lyon added that an ATM structure has been installed on the north side
terrace. The staff report recognized that was added later and is not part of the original
building. It is sympathetic to the architecture, but is not part of the defining characteristics of this
building.
Historic Site Preservation Board Page 3 of 7
Minutes from the June 12,2007 Meeting
M/S/C (Hayton/Riley) moved for approval of Case HSPB #52 application for Class 1
Historic Site designation of the City National Bank Building/Bank of America at 588 South
Palm Canyon Drive (6 Yes, 0 No, 0 Absent, 2 Abstentions).
8, CERTIFICATE OF APPROVAL REQUESTS: NONE
9. 'OTHER BUSINESS: (taken out of order)
B\Application for a Mills Act Contract—3125 North Sunny View Drive - HSPB #42
by,Mr. Brian W. McGuire, Owner
Possible Action: Recommend the City Council enter into a Mills Act Agreement with
Mr. M Guire
Staff member Lyon advised that this Wexler/Steel house is one of seven Wexle,�r,// eel homes that
were classified as'Historic Class 1 Sites on May 2, 2001. This site does have credentials
necessary for the HSP\Board and City Council to consider the Mills Act Agreement between the
City and Mr. McGuire owner.
M/S/C (J.Williams/Nels\)\moved that HSPB recommend to the C'fy Council that the City
enter into a Mills Act AgreetrTnt with Mr. McGuire for the Clas�rrproperty at 3125 North
Sunny View Drive. (6 yes, 0 N 0 Absent, 2 Abstentions —Sau ders & Grattan).
A. Discussion of Historic Districts
Staff member Lyon advised that the City a Palm Springs oes not have any Historic Districts
formally recognized; however there may be 'few areas that qualify because of their collection of
significant buildings. Board review and knowle�ge olAe Ordinance and how the mechanisms of
historic districts work is necessary. A prioritized 'sx/of sites or areas of the City worthy of
consideration for historic districts is needed to stafNhis process.
The process for designating is basically the s4m�e as\��a historic site. The first step is to identify
a neighborhood or physical boundaries bejng considered F r historic district designation. Each
one of the sites (properties) within thaa area would then be a aluated the same way a single site is
evaluated.
Board members discussed various�spects of what is require\sd
ignation of a historic
district and the impact on the pr4erties within the designatederty owners must
be involved and educated Pn all the aspects of what a trict designation entails;
however property owner consent is not a requirement for a Cltion. Working
with neighborhood organizations is important.
Board member Saurpders suggested using the Survey list of 2lish the istricts and
gave the example,of there being 24 properties listed in the Sue 100 to he 2000 block
of North Palm Canyon Drive.
Other examples were given such as Old Las Palmas, Tennis Club area, Movie Colony, Ar by,
Little Tuscany, etc., that would focus on distinctive areas and create visitor service and touriinn
interest,'A survey of all the homeowners within a district/area and a sub-committee to meet wi\th\
the neighborhood organizations were recommended.
Staff member Lyon suggested the sub-committee prepare a "work plan"first that includes:
RESOLUTION NO. 52
OF THE HISTORIC SITE PRESERVATION BOARD OF
THE CITY OF PALM SPRINGS, CALIFORNIA,
RECOMMENDING THAT THE CITY COUNCIL
DESIGNATE 588 SOUTH PALM CANYON DRIVE, THE
CITY NATIONAL BANK/ BANK OF AMERICA BUILDING, A
CLASS ONE HISTORIC SITE
WHEREAS, Chapter 8.05 of the Palm Springs Municipal Code allows for the
designation of historic sites; and
WHEREAS, the Historic Site Preservation Board filed an application for Historic Site
Designation; and
WHEREAS, notice of a public hearing of the Historic Site Preservation Board of the City
of Palm Springs to consider designation of the City National Bank / Bank of America
Building a Class 1 historic site was issued in accordance with applicable law; and
WHEREAS, on June 12, 2007, the Historic Site Preservation Board conducted a public
hearing in accordance with applicable law to consider designation of the City National
Bank / Bank of America Building as a Class 1 historic site; and
WHEREAS, the designation of the City National Bank / Bank of America Building shall
further the purpose and intent of Chapter 8,05; and
WHEREAS, the designation of the City National Bank / Bank of America Building shall
promote the sensitive preservation of said site; and
WHEREAS, the Historic Site Preservation Board has carefully reviewed and considered
all of the evidence in connection with the designation, including but not limited to the
staff report, application and historical research, all written and oral testimony presented,
and notes the following:
1. In 1959, The City National Bank of Beverly Hills commissioned the Beverly Hills
office of Victor Gruen Associates Architects to design a branch bank at 588
South Palm Canyon Drive in Palm Springs.
2. The defining historic characteristics of this building are its mid-century modern
architecture, characterized as "expressionist modern". The sculptural quality of
the exterior volume of the bank building, use of smooth plaster with rounded
surfaces and edges, large panels of "Byzantine blue" mosaic tile, large expanses
of aluminum and glass curtainwall along the north and west facades, the
cantilevered 'floating' terrazzo "plinth" base, its clean un-decorated and un-
ornamented surfaces, and wide overhanging roof planes. The building stands as
cantilevered `floating' terrazzo "plinth" base, its clean un-decorated and un-
ornamented surfaces, and wide overhanging roof planes. The building stands
as a very good example of revolutionary thinking in commercial banking of its
time, in which the typical heavy, temple-like traditional style of banks was cast
aside in favor of unconventional and dramatic new concepts in architecture.
THE HISTORIC SITE PRESERVATION BOARD HEREBY FINDS AS FOLLOWS:
Section 1: The City National Bank/Bank of America Building reflects or exemplifies
a particular period of the national, state or local history;
The City National Bank / Bank of America Building is an excellent example of mid-
century modern architecture in an "expressionistic modern idiom" as applied to a
commercial bank building. It embodies the optimism and faith in technology and the
future that was prevalent in the country during the period following World War II. It
presents a visionary idea that a structure for banking could be a sculptural expressive
structure in a very human scale instead of the usual heavy classical architectural forms
that typified bank buildings in previous eras are embodied in this structure.
It is an important member of a collection of buildings in this vicinity that developed in
the fifties and sixties as Palm Springs "financial district"; including the Santa Fe Federal
Savings Bank, Coachella Valley Savings Bank (Washington Mutual), Coachella
Savings & Loan (Prudential), Union Bank of California, Guaranty Bank, and Wells
Fargo. This collection of financial institutions are all located on or near Palm Canyon
Drive which was, at the time, the hub of commercial activity in the Coachella Valley.
Each bank sought to capture customers by creating a significant presence through the
use of outstanding architecture. This notion of 'advertising through architecture' is
clearly evident in this collection of buildings, including the City National Bank / Bank of
America Building.
Section 3: The City National Bank / Bank of America Building embodies the
distinctive characteristics of a type, period or method of construction;
This site presents a rare and unique example of "Expressionist Modern" architecture
from the Mid-century Modern period of architecture because
a) It is a building whose overall volume is almost more sculptural than "building-
like". The rounded and curvilinear surfaces soften the appearance of the
building.
b) Although clearly modern in its style, it is unique in that it does not adhere to
the usual rigorous structure proportioning grid to define its shape or size that
is typical in more "rationalist or mannerist" modern architecture.
c) It is reflective of its own time, not a copy of earlier styles or cultures.
d) It is devoid of applied decoration or ornamentation.
e) It possesses the following defining historic characteristics or elements:
1) The overall sculptural quality of the exterior volume of the building.
2) The long, uninterrupted cantilevered roof structure on the west and
north facades,
3) The muted colors and smooth plaster rounded surfaces and planes
of the walls and roof overhangs,
4) The 'volume' of Byzantine blue mosaic the created at the southern
end of the building and used within the three openings on the east
elevation,
5) The cantilevered terrazzo base or 'floating' floor slab,
2) The inspiration for its proportion and form can clearly be traced to an important
historic structure of the modern movement. the Chapel Notre Dame du Haut in
Ronchamp, France by internationally renowned architect Le Corbusier from 1954;
yet this building stands on its own merits, singularly unique and very artistic in its
form and overall design.
Section 4: The City National Bank/Bank of America Building presents the work of a
master builder, designer, artist, or architect whose individual genius
influenced his age; or that possesses high artistic value;
The City National Bank / Bank of America Building was designed by Rudy Baumfeld of
Victor Gruen Associates Architects of Beverly Hills, who is credited with having
designed the first two story shopping center in the United States. The building
demonstrates Mr_ Baumfelds' artistic talent as a designer and architect and his ability
to translate the functional requirements for this bank into a beautiful structure with
sculptural-like qualities.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that, based upon the foregoing, the Historic
Site Preservation Board recommends that the City Council designate the City National
Bank / Bank of America Building at 588 South Palm Canyon Drive, Palm Springs,
California as a Class 1 Historic Site subject to the following conditions;
1. The property owner shall permit the City to demark the building as a historic site
with a plaque of the City's choosing. The plaque shall be placed in a location
visible from the public right-of-way. The owner shall maintain the plaque in the
location installed and pay for the replacement cost if the plaque is lost, stolen, or
otherwise removed from the property.
2. All future exterior modifications including but not limited to building, site,
landscaping, lighting, walls, and fences shall require Architectural Approval
pursuant to Section 94.04.00 of the Palm Springs Zoning Ordinance and Historic
Site Preservation Board review pursuant Municipal Code Ordinance 8.05.180.
3. No permit for the alteration of the exterior, including any and all of the defining
elements and characteristics shall be issued without prior approval by the
Historic Site Preservation Board.
4. That the City Clerk submit the Council Resolution to the County recorder for
recordation within 90 days of the effective date of this resolution.
5. All existing or previously approved alterations shall be considered acceptable.
ADOPTED this 12th day of June, 2007.
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
ABSTENTIONS:
ATTEST: CITY OF PALM SPRINGS, CALIFORNIA
Ken Lyon, Loretta Moffett,
Associate Planner Historic Site Preservation Board Secretary
l' �✓ J
1
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING
CITY COUNCIL
CITY OF PALM SPRINGS, CALIFORNIA
Proposed Designation of 588 South Palm Canyon Drive
as Class 1 Historic Site and Notice of Exemption from CEQA
Applicant: The City of Palm Springs
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the City Council of the City of Palm Springs, California, will hold a
public hearing at its meeting of July 18, 2007, The City Council meeting begins at 6:00 pm., in the
Council Chamber at City Hall, 3200 East Tahquitz Canyon Way, Palm Springs.
The purpose of the hearing is to consider designation of the building located at 588 South Palm
Canyon Drive as a Class 1 Historic Site.
ENVIRONMENTAL DETERMINATION: This request is categorically exempt from review pursuant to
Section 15331 (Historical Resource Restoration/Rehabilitation) of the California Environmental
Quality Act (CEQA), whereas the proposed designation meets the conditions outlined for preservation
of a historic resource. The application is available for public review in the Department of Planning
Services, City Hall, 3200 East Tahquitz Canyon Way, Palm Springs.
REVIEW OF PROJECT INFORMATION: The staff report and other supporting documents regarding
this project are also available for public review at City Hall between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 5:00
p.m. Monday through Friday. Please contact the Office of the City Clerk at (760) 323-8204 if you
would like to schedule an appointment to review these documents.
COMMENT ON THIS APPLICATION: Response to this notice may be made verbally at the Public
Hearing and/or in writing before the hearing. Written comments may be made to the City Council
and/or the City Council by letter (for mail or hand delivery) to:
James Thompson, City Clerk
3200 East Tahquitz Canyon Way
Palm Springs, CA 92262
Any challenge of the proposed project in court may be limited to raising only those issues raised at
the public hearing described in this notice or in written correspondence delivered to the City Clerk at,
or prior to, the City Council hearing. (Government Code Section 65009[b][21). An opportunity will be
given at said hearing for all interested persons to be heard. Questions regarding this case may be
directed to Ken Lyon, Department of Planning Services at (760)323-8245.
Si necesita ayuda con esta carts, porfavor Ilame a la Ciudad de Palm Springs y puede hablar con
Nadine Fieger telefono (760) 323-8245.
James Thompson, City Clerk
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Project Area SUNNY DUNES R❑ NN�8 RD SUNN D�N 5 RD
CITY OF PALM SPRINGS
CASE NO: HSPB-52 DESCRIPTION: Recommendation to designate
588 S. Palm Canyon Drive, "The City National Bank/
APPLICANT: City of Palm Springs Bank of America Building" a Class 1 Historic Site- 52
NEIGHBORHOOD COALITION REPS MODCOM AND MR PETE MORUZZI
Case HSPB 452-Bank of America HISTORIC SITE REP I I I PALM SPRINGS MODERN COMMITTEE
PHN for CC Hearing PO BOX 4738
on 07.18.07 PALM SPRINGS CA 92263.4738
CITY OF PALM SPRINGS CASE HSPB-52
PLANNING SERVICES DEPARTMENT MRS.JOANNE BRUGGEMANS
VERIFICATION NOTICE I I 1 ATTN SECRETARY 506 W. SANTA CATALINA ROAD
PO BOX 2743 PALM SPRINGS, CA 92262
PALM SPRINGS, CA 92263-2743
MS MARGARET PARK
AGUA CALIENTE BAND OF CAHUILLA AGUA CALIENTE BAND OF CAHUILLA
INDIANS I I 1 1 1 1 INDIANS
777 E TAHQUITZ CANYON WAY, STE.3
PALM SPRINGS CA 92262
BANK OF AMERICA
ATTN BILL UNDERWOOD
333 S. HOPE STREET, 14T" FLOOR
SPQNSORS I I I LOS ANGELES, CA 90071
FI�PQ — �t � .0 �e Ct.>_•�, �� ysP6_ �i�. 7 ti CC y_ /P ty i D
J
009601701 009607326 009607908
PITTS IND AVE INC 1� A&J PALMAS LTD PARTNERSHIP A&J PALMAS LTD PARTNERSHIP
490 S IAN AVE 501 S PALM CANYON DR 535 S PALM CANYON DR
P SPRINGS,CA 92262 PALM SPRINGS,CA 92262 PALM SPRINGS,CA 92262
009609512 009610417 009610418
A&J PALMAS LTD PARTNERSHIP A&J PALMAS LTD PARTNERSHIP A&J PALMAS LTD PARTNERSHIP
543 S PALM CANYON DR 555 S PALM CANYON DR 559 S PALM CANYON DR
PALM SPRINGS,CA 92264 PALM SPRINGS,CA 92262 PALM SPRINGS,CA 92262
009610421 508094016 50,121OK
A&I PALMAS LTD PARTNERSHIP PITTS INDIAN AVE INC SIE NEVADA DEV
PALM SPRINGS, CA 92262 PALM SPRINGS,CA 92262 50 M 1NDJ AN CANYON DR
ALSPRINGS.CA 92264
508121002 508121003 50812100 )ell
MITTELMANN GABRIEL IOCOVOZZI DAMIANO LIVING TRUST LE ALPH
520 S INDIAN CANYON DR 550 S INDIAN CANYON DR 560 INDIAN CANYON DR
PALM SPRINGS,CA 92264 PALM SPRINGS,CA 92264 M SPRINGS,CA 92264
508121008 508121009 508121010
NETH DAVID C ATKINS DUSTY J DIMITROV SPIRIDON I
587 S CALLE AJO 575 S CALLE AJO 565 S CALLE AJO
PALM SPRINGS,CA 92264 PALM SPRINGS,CA 92264 PALM SPRINGS,CA 92264
5081210 508121 2 77 5081210
DIM OV ANION SIE A NEVADA DEV1 SIE NEVADA DEV
5_ S CALLS AJO P M SPRINGS,CA 92264 M SPRINGS,CA 92264
ALM SPRINGS,CA 92264
5081210 508122001 508122002
P& KAMINS PAUL B SCOTT TIMOTHY A
59 INDIAN CANYON DR 201 E RAMON RD 514 S CALLE AJO
LM SPRINGS,CA 92264 PALM SPRINGS,CA 92264 PALM SPRINGS,CA 92264
508122003 508122004 508122005
TAYLOR LUCILLE NORTON MARGARET 2006 TRUST BINGHAM RAY D
524 S CALLE AJO 534 S CALLE AJO 542 S CALLE AJO
PALM SPRINGS,CA 92264 PALM SPRINGS,CA 92264 PALM SPRINGS,CA 92264
2200
i MOO GAIL MARIB nn � PUENTE GRAVEL MARTINEZ I-IIGGINS WARD TI-IOMAS
556 CALLE AJO P 566 S CALLE AJO 576 S CALLE AJO
P M SPRINGS,CA 92264 PALM SPRINGS,CA 92264 PALM SPRINGS,CA 92264
508122009 508122010 y6S
2 /`�' �
BAZALAR CARLOS A SHAUGHNESSY ANNE HELENE
582 S CALLE AJO PALM SPRINGS,CA 92264 LM CANYON DR
PALM SPRINGS,CA 92264 RINGS,CA 92264
/7 i5I vz -T-L� 6" 7. /,k. C �
508132041 513213005 513213014
WADE WIL M I GREAT WLSTERN SAVINGS FED SVGS
660 5 P CANYON➢R �� ec LOAN ASSN HMS-PALM SPRINGS
499 S PALM CANYON DR 477 S PALM CANYON DR
PAC PALM SPRINGS, CA 92262
kPGS,CA 92264
PALM SPRINGS,CA 92262
513214005 513214010 513214011
II) RSC OMMUNITY PROP TRUST HERSCU COMMUNITY PROP TRUST I-1ERSCU COMMUNITY PROP TRUST
462 S ALM CANYON DR A 490 S PALM CANYON DR 471 S INDIAN CANYON DR
P M SPRINGS,CA 92262 ! PALM SPRINGS,CA 92262 PALM SPRINGS, CA 92262
513280001 513280004
500 SOUTH PALM CANYON BANK OF ERICA NATL TR& SVGS 513280010
500 S PALM CANYON DR ASSN �p USA 513
PALM SPRINGS,CA 92264 588 ALM CANYON DR Iv� PALM SPRINGS,CA 92262
LM SPRINGS,CA 92264
513280013 513280015 513280016
USA 513 USA 513 USA 513
PALM SPRINGS,CA 92262 PALM SPRINGS,CA 92262 PALM SPRINGS, CA 92262
513280017 513280018 5132900
D) 5 SUN CENTER LLC
USA 513 USA 513 61 S PALM CANYON DR
PALM SPRINGS,CA 92262 PALM SPRINGS, CA 92262 ALM SPRINGS,CA 92264
1.� 11
PROOF OF PUBLICATION This Is space for County Clerkis Filing Stamp
(2015.5.C.C.P) 2F�7 �Lff 12 'A: S 1 u Y
J'r
STATE OF CALIFORNIA
County of Riverside -- -
No.21S1
NOTICE OFPUBLIC HEARING
CITY OF PALMSPRINGS.
CALIFORNIA
Proposed Des nation of
Sea South Palm Canyyon Drive
as Class 1 His=Sit,
and Notice of Exemption from CEQA
I am a citizen of the United States and a resident of Applicant The city of Palm Springs
the County aforesaid;I am over the age of eighteen NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that lho CIry Council
years,and not a party to or interested in the of the City of Palm Springs California,will hold a
above-entitled matter.I am the principal cleric of a ppublic hearing at Its meeting of July 18,2007.The
p City Counnl�meeling begms at 6,00 pm, in the
printer of the,DESERT SUN PUBLISHING Council Chambor at City Hall 3200 East Tall
Canyon Way, Palm Springs.
COMPANY a newspaper he general circulation, The purpose of the hearingg Is to considor des!g-
printed and published in the city of Palm Springs, nation of the building Ions rid at S88 Soual Palm
County of Riverside,and which newspaper has been Canyon Drrve as a lass 1 Historic Site,
adjudged a newspaper of general circulation by the
Superior Court of the County of Riverside,State of It
wr.ira.i
California under the date of March 24,1988.Case -- ---- --I
-
Number I91236;that the notice,of which the Ld -
annexed is a printed copy(set in type not smaller
than non pariel,has been published in each regular
and entire issue of said newspaper and not in any ' I -i" L.
supplement thereof on the following dates,to wit: _ it L,�T•�-,i,T„!
July 7"',2007 3, l`I-IT'-r
�.-�-.`�.- - —� �JI II ry -I•J__,lilt
All In the year 2007 nrr +.ter. - �,•ryr
ENVIRONMENTAL DETERMINATION:The re-
quest Is categorlcally exempt from revlew pursu,
I certify(or declare)under penalty of perjury that the ant to Station 15331 (Historical Resource Re;lo-
ratlon/Rehebllltatlonl of the California Envlrcnmen-
foregoing le true and Correct. ral Duality Act (CEQA), whereas the pproposed
designation meets the conditions outlined for
presprvatlogr of a Ilistadc resource The appllca-
Dated at Palm Springs,California this---7°i,—day Sion Is avallable for public review In The Oepart-
menr of Planking Services, City Hall, 3200 East
Tahquitz Canyon way, Palm Springs,
01-- July 2007 REVIEW OF PROJECT INrerort and other FFyORMATION:The staff
Thu
Is for pubIJ6
iew
he
Of 8;00 a-M and
�af�� documents req,trdin.j
� �t theMonday III ughrk ate( )Please2 contact4v the.
Would like to so oddulle •n appointment Ia re,,w
-- �� documents.
Si atnrr; j COMMENT ON THIS APPLICATION: Response
to this notice may be made veryally at the Publlc
Hearing and/or in writing before the huanngg Writ-
ten comments may be mach to the City Council
by letter(for mall or hand delivery)to:
James Thompson, City Clerk
/� c/ 3200 East Tali Canyon Way
Ii1 A JD Pym Springs, CA 92262
VVV Any challonge of the proposed protect In court
may be limited to raising only those Issues raised
r at the public hearing de
scrlbed In this notico arm
`L writtennpcorrespondence dollvered to the CI Clerk
at,
Gode to,
hlon 6s0ogfb[21). An opporrrttunity
will be given at said hearing�or all Interested per-
sons may be dlrocted louKen Lyain. Department of
Planning Services at(750)32y-824S.
SI nocesita ayuda can esfa cans,porfavor[lame a
to Ciudad de Palm Springs y puede hablar con
Nadine Fleger telefogo (7to) 323-9245.
Polished;7/7/2D07Jamer omp—,n, Ity
�OF ?A L MIlrorsp'P� e
City of Falmi Springs
e Office of the Ginty Clerk
3200 E. lahyura Canyon Way ' Palau Springs, California 92262
CA Tel,Tel (160) i23-X?04 • me 17(i0) i22-8i32 ° Web: win r.pa n 5lxinrs-ra gnv
/1FOR4
July 6, 2007
Ms. Claudia Salgado
Bureau of Indian Affairs
P. O. Box 2245
Palm Springs, CA 92263
Dear Ms. Salgado:
RE: City Council Meeting --July 18, 2007
Proposed Historic Site —588 South Palm Canyon Drive
The City Council of the City of Palm Springs will be conducting a public hearing relating to the
above referenced on July 18, 2007. Enclosed are six copies of the public hearing notice to be
forwarded to the appropriate Indian landowner(s) within the 400 ft. radius of the project location,
as listed below:
513-280-016 513-280-015
513-280-018 513-280-017
513-280-013 513-800-010
Please feel free to contact me if there are any questions or concerns, 323-8206.
Sincerely,
Kathie Hart, CMC
Chief Deputy City Clerk
/kdh PHN to eiA-sun center 09-1Ma doc
Encl: Public Hearing Notice (6 copies)
Mailing Labels
Post Office Box 2743 0 Patm Springs, California 92263-2743
513280017
USA 513
PALM SPRINGS, CA 92262
N
4
c 513280013
USA 513
U PALM SPRINGS, CA 92262
z
M 513290015
USA 513 513280010
r-� Ca
PALM SPRINGS,CA 92262 USA 513
r a c PALM 3PRINTOS.CA 92262
513280018
USA 513
PALM SPRINGS,CA 92262
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Page 1 of 3
Ken Lyon
From: Ryan,Joe O Doe.o,ryan@bankofamerica.com]
Sent: Friday,April 06,2007 927 AM
To; Ken.Lyon@palmsprings-ca.gov
Cc: Huffington, Anne (US); Oh, David L; Suits, Bill (US); Underwood, Bill (US); Jameson, Rhonda J;
Beckler, Tamara J
Subject: RE: Historic Site Preservation Board's nomination of the 8 of A for Historic Designation (Palm
Springs Main)
Mr. Lyon, thank you for providing further detail on your request. We are pleased to let you know that Bank of
America does support your nomination of the exterior of our Palm Springs Main Banking Center as a historic site.
Bill Underwood, of Jones Lang LaSalle,will be your local contact going forward. His contact information is below.
We look forward to hearing further information after your next Board Meeting.
Thanks again
Joe Ryan
Vice President, Portfolio Manager
Corporate Workplace, Southwest Portfolio
Bank of America
714-792-5940 (p)
714-792-4489 (f)
ioe.o.ryan@bankofamerica.com
Historic Resources Report
On
The City National Bank
588 South Palm Canyon Drive
April 2007
Jade Nelson
Peter Moruzzi
CITY NATIONAL BANK OF PALM SPRINGS (Bank of America),1959
Rudi Baumfeld,architect -Victor Gruen Associates
588 South Palm Canyon Drive
Palm Springs, CA 9226A
"Typical Bank in Palm Springs" read a postcard of the Victor Gruen Associates' City National
Bank. "The MODERN CITY in the Desert," it called Palm Springs, claiming the ultra-modern
bank as "typical of the spectacular modern design of countless new buildings and homes in
America's foremost desert resort."
-Palm Springs Weekend(Chronicle Books)
BACKGROUND
City National Bank of Beverly Hills commissioned the renowned architectural firm Victor
Gruen Associates in 1958 to design a Palm Springs bank. The project, "a new concept of bank
design and structure" was a collaboration of many; Victor Gruen Associates; Beverly hills
architects, planners, and engineers; and Buckeye Construction Company, general contractor
on the building- As "One of the most dramatic Structures to rise in Southern California" in
1959, the bank's design was overseen by Austrian architect Rudi Baumfeld, Gruen's partner-in-
charge of the project, best known for his visionary design of the first two-level shopping mall
in America. Construction on Palm Springs City National Bank began October zo, 1958 and was
completed nearly nine months later by August 1, 1959-
ARCHITECTURE & DESIGN
Respect for and integration of the desert environment is apparent. According to Baumfeld,
"The soft rounded curves and muted color of the exterior are something that we have tried
before..." and in what may very well be a nod to Palm Springs history and culture, "We were
influenced by what we have known about the adobe architecture of the Indians." Among the
unique features of the building is the absence of sharp corners. "The soft-plaster construction
technique was used to create a general feeling of adobe structures so typical of the desert."
"Plaster itself is a very warm material...rarely used in the right way." George Konheim,
president of Buckeye Construction, said that the rounded curves required expert plasterers
and special templates for every new curve-
Triangular in shape, the plan features an open spacious design that derives its light from two
sides made mainly of glass and its floating appearance from the raised terrazzo platform while
the expertly crafted roof structure seems to hover over a main entrance of glass and slender
aluminum mullions, further enhancing its fine detail. Not only is the roof overhang
architecturally splendid, but functionally practical as its true purpose is to eliminate the sun's
glare from the building's interior.
According to Architectural Historian Alan Ness, the influence of Le Corbusier's Ronchamp
chapel, built five years earlier in France, was no coincidence. Baumfeld had visited Ronchamp
and had been so greatly impressed by its free expressionist design and soaring forms that he
incorporated its themes into a more "colorful, brighter, more democratic roadside version of
one of the brooding and mysterious monuments of mid-century modernism." "It is Ronchamp
opened to the light of day and daily life with walls of glass. In its confident commercialism and
roadside site, the bank reflects its California culture."
The bank's outside showpiece, now gone, was an exhilarating champagne glass-shaped
fountain between the parking area and the building. Standing gracefully at sixteen feet in
diameter, the fountain bowl was covered with Byzantine glass mosaic tile and featured dancing
water sprays that were illuminated at night by colored lights. Custom designed decorative
aluminum screens to filter sunlight on the west elevation no longer remain, but the pierced
screen of sculpted concrete on the east fagade is intact. Perhaps the most striking and
memorable design element is the sky blue mosaic tile found surfacing the building's
supporting columns. A City National Bank trademark, the blue glass tile was featured on each
of their buildings but its color ironically came to be known as "Rudi's blue," a shade of azure
also said to be found on every building he ever designed. Not to mention it flawlessly matches
the color of a clear blue Palm Springs sky.
SUMMARY
Victor Gruen Associates designed several City National Bank buildings but none as
magnificent as the Palm Springs branch, the result of a rare occurrence that brilliantly meshed
the client's budget with their desire for a building that would stand out in a town becoming
known for Modern design. Capturing the "stylish optimism of Modernism" and influenced by
Le Corbusier, a saint of Modern architecture, this bank building paved the way for and
undoubtedly inspired its immediate followers, Santa Fe Federal Savings and Loan in ig6o and
Coachella Valley Savings Bank (Washington Mutual) in 1961. A startling departure from the
small village structures, this building with its innovative design, imported materials and the
most luxurious finishes for its time, was heralded upon completion as "the most beautiful bank
in America" and continues to shine like the jewel that it is - in our city.
�A
Dramatic Palm Springs
Structure is Result
Of Gruen-Buckeye Teamwork
Reprinted From SOUTHWEST BUILDER and CONTRACTOR Issue of OCTOBER 23, 1959
e11 1?12
I;I
i
tic'
t F
a yyil+.- it
L
Dramatic Palm Springs Structure is
Result of Gruen - Buckeye Teamwork
ONE OF THri MOST ch'amalic slrnc-
i�' `'4"'I Lures to rise in Southern Calrlotuid this
� ��.�•',� year is the Palm Springs headquaitcrs
of the City NaLional Bank of Buvcrty
Hill
s.
A new cnnct-pt of bank design and
slaichue, ideally -suited to its desm•L sur-
i,'9t`r .rounding>, was elleeLed by the close
I wllaboiarion hehv-en Victor Green As.
,-L sociates, Beverly Hills architects, Plan-
� ;'%';"17 Hers and engineers and the Buckeye Con-
++ 4 p'n' structinn Company, Beverly I-bjls, Lite
pneral eonLracLor on the building,
r� As has been prcvionsly demonsLratcd
by there Iwo Firms, an inLegrulcd ap-
' r proach by builder and m•chlleot from
the carllcst stages of LL^: project has
Paid dividends. A building has fesulLcd
lot meoLing a specific uund which is
higlily functional, economic in constrno-
k tine, and which was completed in the
shorLusL possible time. Thu P,iltn Springs
hank is the fourLh such joint projecL by
Gruen and Buckeye.
Y y yn, try n.
Wtl^, Perhaps the most nnignc Fcnhlrc of
Ak 1 Lite bank design is that there are no
sharp corners in the en Lirc building. Thu
• ". r 1X soft-plaster consLruchon teclniignc: was
used Lo ere tic a general Frcling of adohu
sLrncLures so Lypical of the descrL.
.,.'4 .1 cop photo is west elevofion of blink zhowinq
u, �. '•1 friongulor building with blue glass mowic we
wall of right surrenndlng bank voult. Left plc
'�'� oc�nntuote: decorative olummum ;,rn,n wh;,h
r•y4",w i.' '� ',,',A�' p,-Wts >gclnst sun. Planters ore whit, mnrbl
"The soft, rounded curveb and muted
coloring of the exterior am something ,_ry:�y'e ; •;:-.' ' 'ten�„ '�
that we have tried before—on Magnin s x: "' \'
xy�`
stare in Las Vegas,'said Andy Baumfeld,
Victor Gruen Associates partner-in-charge
of the building. "we were influenced
by what we have known about the adobe.architecture of the Tndians.
"Plaster iLself is a very warns material. m-
iL's rarely used in the right way, but fbelieve M°-•+ J`Y
belie es it's one of the few materials that T.T n71 �` nnne,Ne tees• ° °y
George Konhcim, president of the •' °'""'T '� o rc=-' = °�.....
Buckeye Construction Companv, said �'1l �I °C•i
that the rounded curves require expert
plasterers and special templates for every "n
now curve. '
Already called "the most beautiful rf '^•y' r Ch ° —I „ �, L ncn_nna
haul:in America," the new City National ` , _ ,--I •" `� _o- —
Bank branch features an open and float- - __ • rii {� 1, II t', _I_ _ -L_i -1 -;f]r. A i
ing type of design. Generally triangular
in bbapc, it occupies Lhe apex of a much
larger triangular site rammed by Ramon
Road, hndnan Avenue, and Palm Canyon
Drive. Main entrance opens onto a well- appears to floaL out over an entrance of The wall facing Indian Avenue fen•
landscaped parking area. glass and slender alummum mullions. Lures a pierced screen of sculptured con-
The building derives iLs opennebi from The vault at the extreme comer of Crete and couples beauty with the fmne-
two sides that are entirely of glass; and the bank is a massive curved wall of the tional advantage of admitting light and
its floating appearance from both the building and is faced with the traditional air into the emplovocs lounge on the
raised terrazzo platform from which it blue glass mosaic tile that has become mezzanine floor of the building-
rises and the molded roof structure:which a City National Hank trademark. The glass will along the western eleva-
FLOOR plan of bank is sketched above, Below is main entrance showing gloss area. Exterior terrarxo floors continue throughout interior. The
square aluminum tubing hors which provide verticol sparing for massive windows upper fell in mezzanine overlook ilia entire main banking [face.
- -
1011
41
l "
.w.
a -
. , .
71
The roof overhang, in addition to its
i architectural beauty, has the functional
r r pm•posa of eliminaLiog are from the
' �,.,• Ww.. le,.I xiiW'hh 1, _,.i .
, , , p• interior of the air conditioned building.
Applouch to the bank is either from
fir. T"�-v ICI the 100 car parking lot or by a brief:
wall: drat bisects the site. The entire
area has been tastefully landscaped in
(' 1 keeping with desert horteuiture. Palm
.fW�.• 1� trees surround the building itself, while
! '1 :�,,.,,� r , • .•35-foot olive trees chide and beautify
if
4
7 _ _
LOOKING Nodhwost through main entrance shows white acoustical plasderrccoding wish recessed - •r." . °:
incandescent lights. Special hanging lighting fixture uses attractive pear-shaped vaalni globes. yµ,
Lion facing Palm Canyon Drive is Mn- built-in walnut fixtures. Tellers' counters
bined with an intricate metal screen to are; topped with marble. Near the en-
control afternoon sun and light reflex trance there is a lounge area for cars-
Lions. tamers and a drinking fountain, while a
a ills are finished with a completely unique scale on which cus- .
All opaque w. f p Y 9 �., -_ �.�`
latex membrane film that gives a velvet- tamers may weigh themselves free, has 4.fyts, ter' „. .,rn.
smooth finish and at the same time con- boon built into the wall as a component
LrOIS the appearance of cracks that are part of the building. The banking floorreY
typical when plaster walls expand and is approximately 6700 square feet, while
FREE and
pre scales are texture of rh• hutid-
contract. the mezzanine adds another 3000 square
Ing and probably first dint that a stoic of this
The terrazzo platform, continuing in- £net, fora Wtal of 9700 square feet of type has been designed into the building plan,
side the building, contrasts richly with working area.
BLUE glass mosaic the wall around voull has sf-inioss steel vxulf doors. Railing is stainless the parkin., area. A distinctive featuro
steel with marble cap, connnuing marble surfoet which surrounds banking area. Bluc glass of the landscaping is a rare Sago palm
mosaic file has become symbol of City National Bank. Fiberglass drapes operate by push button. tree set in a marble box at the entrance
to the bank. This unique five-Lingered
palm is prized for its unusual shape and
i.; one of the few to be found in South-
ern California.
The showpiece of Lbc bank is a charn-
`ffi' V" paigrne glass-shaped fountain between
tine parking area and the bank on the
+I terrazzo entrance platform. Sixteen feet
it 'L,,r� inn di,imetei, the entire fountain bowl is
i� aI covered with Bvzantine glass mosaic tile.
I�.rfl '��i �L p The fountain features dancing waters,
ol� , ' r k with throe sprays of waver splashing in
r ii .t unique pattern. It is illuminated it
night with brilliant colored spotlights.
,� Buckeye st.irted construction on Oc-
a, Y1 Luber 20, 1958, and finished about nine
I
r� , 1" months later on August 1, 1939.
Many malcilals in the building have
been Imported, such as Lie Italian glass
w"`•. ,y Y mosaic tale. In addition, the president's
office includes teakwood paneling and
drapery of Rhodesian lion hair, German
%late floor section to hold the desk, fapa-
ar+ nose ,grass cloth will covering, and
f French file.
Description
City National Bank of Palm Springs (now Bank of America),
588 South Palm Canyon
Construction began on October 20, 1958 and finished nine months later on August 1, 1959.
The architects, Victor Gruen and Associates, were known primarily for shopping centers and
other commercial buildings with architectural offices nationwide- (see Victor Gruen biography
attached).
Originally built as a branch of Beverly ITills-based City National Bank,the Palm Springs
design is organic and expressionist using a sweeping curved roof supported on sculptural walls
reminiscent of Le Corbusier's Ronchamp chapel,built five years previously in France.
Significantly,Rudi Baumfeld, chief of design for Gruen's Los Angeles office, had recently
visited Ronchamp and greatly admired it.
Generally triangular in shape, it occupies the apex of a much larger triangular site rimmed by
Ramon Road, Indian Avenue,and Palm Canyon Drive- The banking floor is approximately
6700 square feet,while the mezzanine adds another 3000 square feet,for a total of 9700 square
feet of working area.
A long, tall wall stretches along Indian Canyon, supporting the irregularly shaped upswept
roof- A secondary supporting point of the building is a thick hollow column covered in
brilliant sky blue mosaic tile. White stucco covers other walls. The building derives its
openness from the north and west sides that are entirely of glass- Slender aluminum mullions
bisect its glass front entrance atop a raised terrazzo platform. The wall facing Indian Avenue
features a pierced screen of sculptured concrete that admits light and air into the employees
lounge on the mezzanine floor of the building.
The bank is raised above the parking lot, originally with a floating appearance before ADA-
required ramps anchored the building to the site. Original terrazzo planters are gone- Inside,
the two-story banking room is spacious and airy- The vault at the extreme southern comer of
the bank is a massive curved wall faced with the traditional blue glass mosaic file that was a
City National Bank trademark. The acoustical plaster ceiling is punctuated with recessed
lights- Retractable sun-deflecting screens replaced original curtains across the west window.
An original intricate metal screen meant to control afternoon sun and reflected light is also
gone-
Although several original custom chandeliers are gone, a remaining chandelier with pear-
shaped Venini globes was moved to a ground floor office and is visible from Palm Canyon
Drive. The original ground floor area dividers were removed long ago, today desks, kiosks and
other furniture sit in an open floor plan.
Imported materials included white marble and walnut teller cage fixtures,terrazzo floors,
teakwood paneling,Rhodesian lion hair draperies,Italian chandeliers, German slate flooring,
Japanese grass cloth wall coverings and blue mosaic tile. Today only the terrazzo floors,
previously mentioned chandelier and mosaic file remain. c7,
1
According to an article in Southwest Builder and CQn=. or from October 23, 1959, "Perhaps
the most unique feature of the bank design is that there are no sharp corners in the entire
building. The soft plaster construction technique was used to create a general feeling of adobe
structures so typical of the desert. `We were influenced by what we have known about the
adobe architecture of the Indians,' said Rudi Baumfeld, Victor Gruen Associates partner in
charge of the building."
'yTlr�ir-rw
Statement of Historic Significance
City National Bank of Palm Springs (now Bank of America),
588 South Palm Canyon
The following statement of historic significance clearly demonstrates the qualifications of the
1959 City National Bank for Class One historic Designation in the City of Palm Springs.
According to Alan Hess, architectural critic and co-author of"Palm Springs Weekend—
Architecture in a Mid-Century Oasis" (2001, Chronicle Press, pp. 125-131), City National
Bank by Victor Gruen and Associates, "is one of Palm Springs' most luxurious buildings. This
amorphous structure exalted financial architecture to the sacred; it's literally modeled on a
chapel by one of the saints of Modern architecture,Le Corbusier. [This bank] is a spectacular
structure for a commercial district that uses Modernism to grab attention and make an
unmistakable and lasting monument."
Rudi Baumfeld, the chief designer of the bank, was a native of Austria along with his mentor,
architect Victor Gruen. Interestingly, in Palm Springs he joined the Swiss architect Albert
Frey and fellow Austrian Neutra in contributing to the town's architecture.
This was the most elaborate and sumptuous of the several City National Bank branches that the
Gruen office designed. The large budget of this branch offered an opportunity to experiment
with forms, features and finishes quite unusual for a bank of this period.
Says Hess, `Baumfeld's echo of Ronchamp's soaring forms evokes a colorful,brighter, more
democratic roadside version of one of the brooding and mysterious monuments of mid-century
Modernism_ It is Ronchamp opened to the light of day and daily life with walls of glass_ In its
confident commercialism and roadside site, the bank reflects its California culture."
The building's strategic location at the apex of Palm Springs' two main boulevards encouraged
a monumental, sculptural design which attracted the attention of automobile traffic. Glass
walls on the north and west revealed a bright, airy, inviting interior rich with color.
Hess continues, "In an abstract manner the soft plaster is an echo of the adobe forms of the
Southwest. Rudi Baumfeld embraced the adobe image: `The soft,rounded curves and muted
coloring of the exterior are something that we have tried before—on Magnin's store in Las
Vegas.",
Southwest Builder and Contractor_ October 23, 1959 emphasized its uniqueness,"Anew
concept of bank design and structure, ideally suited to its desert surroundings." Vintage 1960
promotional literature said of the structure: "Breathtaking beauty and financial strength go
hand in hand. The sculptured effect of this freestyle design in bank architecture has achieved
international acclaim_ [It is] already called `the most beautifid bank in America'."
In summary, City National Sank exemplifies the postwar modem aesthetic of Palm Springs
and is certainly one of the most distinctive, monumental, and expressive modern buildings in
@3�^�?
the City_ In fact, it is one of the most unusual, organic modern banks constructed anywhere in
Southern California. City National Bank epitomizes elegant desert modernism during the
height of Palm Springs greatest wealth and fame and fully deserves recognition as a Class One
Historic Site.
4
R.eaumfeld,84,Dies;Architect and Planner-New York Times 04/09/2007 10:44 PM
( beNhoRorkClmc`a
nyL;rncs.CCm
Martin 7,1988
R. Baumfeld, 84, Dies; Architect and Planner
LEAD: Ruch Raumfeld,an architect who designed the First two-level enclosed shopping mall built in the United States, Southdale in
MirmeVolis,died of congestive heart failure on Feb.20 in Los Angeles_ He was 84 years old
Rudi Baumfeld,an architect who designed the First two-level enclosed shopping mall built in the United States,Southdale in
Minneapolis,died of congestive heart failure on Feb_20 in Los Angeles.FIe was 84 years old_
Mr. Baumfeld came to the United States from his native Austria in 1940 after diasigring buildings in several Enrupean countries. He
joined with Victor Gruen,the architect and planner,in 1943 and was an original partner in Victor Cxr=Associates when it was
formed in 1951.FIe headed several departments of the fnm,inludiog design,interior design,graphics,merchandising and store layout-
Many of his projects were in the Los Angeles area where he lived,among them the South Coast Plata and Costa Mesa centers,the
Wilsbire Tenuce apartments and the Tishman 615 Building,whose 22 stories made it the first erected over the long-e�sting 13-story
Los Angeles height limit He designed more them a dozen Joseph Magun stores in Western states.
After his retirement from Gruen Associates in 1968 he continued as a consultant to the firm until his deatli.
I3e is survived by his wife,the former Marianne Perles.
..._ork L JC _ .. I Contact "S` I US L_Beck to Ton
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St ru Ct a re un Ibr Palm Ca❑u11I ,tde anod to r s u[I el h e>„un pie of
Late Alt OP r'ne Ily Paul 11IIIi.m1, and Jones. The 6a nl:'s tall f ins
a lot Ilse alei,al b, it Lip ape I'e,I uidl AI Ss ❑ud uggled to the -
1 t
tK
Wall] ercau•d a ri+'id and t irL 1lul141r11 Eium anchored
tall au=Jed block 1Ltrh BulEoch'- a hind, snut6; Li furtllel - -
tinderscured III Re +'ill age's .I uvressive!}• l Ill I Iurg rhat:ncter li+inv
n 1
side 6., side wills den Older S[tantsL =Lops.
➢ ANK5
In die 1950s. all crra before 1Clls and intense secui'iry. bank
h[Idthlhl SLN pdaF['ll a ]'oIe in a t'nlltltlltlli[I ;IS a IIIHJOr r1lUrltt- Polrn Canyon Driv0e`m S"J"f, Co fornia
MaIL. r'adiatinI •nlidny, ronlidence and prosperiq• Before
llot'It] 1J,u' I]., 46rc would often bate lee It 3❑ Roman m- Gruel.
o11']c lftet [be w:t r, co l it I lei cial ALL wrica enibr'aced illo del❑isu nndes of tall, raperin, columns model laizing dtnm• of etas=_ical Palm Springs'Old West
and ale]aieCl' "sell 69nl. drsien 10 Prornore due priivaG}' and Iemp[es lCiElram; ore precasi T-beams cautileuared up I'rnm contrasts with the s Is ek fac ade
lr�n inmcy of l•Indc rn a cl a I er l u re Il re,,uy to n d rd I',nc rna' 1'I on slab They ale, ezlend rinn•n unn of the Hank of America building
�n•w nn 11'ddiatn.' three hauls buildings in Pn nl 5[lriuw die futuudwien. To SurnL16en dtc• col LllntS lied. In IFte slab, on Palm Canyon and Tacheva
'60.. a leli rsltrap, ['ar i Crl. each Weil handle,) and ,h,l iucri>ch r•rl r.rd fillets at e added. euhanein, the Nnl i[a rile m by A.Quincy Jones and Paul
1fu III pro M-1111a111a' ILeadtlual Iers Ihr the ][J56 r'oar6e[la Valle} \a;nle%C1 n. ll'IIIIe \rernrtel'• c,lunlns are [alnerrl auld ,rulII Wrlltams.The Hollyo-rood
3anL o❑ Pa[m Cart}ou Urnl• soh rd the pivhlrm of [Val lriuI ell hl,c Sl nett. on mp I[Iel II an app:a'C III ela,I iriq ll'il Liam ale segued helped lure tourists to
and sun bt pnautp must of [br pal lulls under the Luidrliu� 17:uter' the carrell srrunn t, a fuu,'rtunal beau• benteen the desert in the fiat Les.
and hliuug Ilt,• Inn-,Iur} bald ina fluor m ILe seconJ letrl. A ,•nlunuls Ili setsmlc ,lal6llitp Note the building's serrated
gr*nlnrl-fluid Flas, lobin ufl' Ibe tall.ntr lot di, da , t1Le ki
1 f } 1 au'er Lili l'irtnl' Gruen I [lnnrhanut-uuspned (:it} 1 tsao-story fins,a hallmark
ban l,`s tatd[ as ,u dn'u3 aou• and lu VICE oual item No l iu n,ll Hit u1, it rr[It, du• flower and mi-hl of 1•loder ui sal seea of Late l{oderne des ugn.
l Jae f:w lcllel I 1'al dry Baal. ., tin ct es, allnw ed a [I) build Ell luuEh [lip lens of CalIN"Elio coiunn•rr i al cull at .vas SI I'Ortglt The original building
.t ,econd hradq Lai teta gt ]960. id Lich ll iNtaIns also rlrsi'nerl Jell in rLe descrr. Though the size and rlaboratencss of dlese has been altered.
.Is Ha even more inlp Osin sit ie um a umeut reflgcunc the I ou•- 3a 111's is due al palm Sf II'ing,"pl nsperily. the Itae of Itlode.Ilisnl
iRig pnosperi1 of rLe City. A told porch ivl dl upward-tapering IS a reflecting of due times. These are unt mere[y imi t a l to us of
cohuun, laces the su'eel; the ear ire builrIIn� Seel its Lo fl"It nn Mod ern nlu3uuaunts. Tltee a t r allapted m the dererl. and duce
a loop, row of nnpressivelt bubblin. fonnrains. par l ici Vale ut the cud Lure of tl'lodernis Ell in which Pa It SpriI
True buibliug rrhae, due mono Ili e❑❑di ty of Oscar played ata 011voulld rnfe.
IfJ \[Cn1nV el's Supreme Court and Alv.uarlu Palace Luiithnp gt Williams' 196(, Santa Fe &viiip and Loan is a
Flat-Brasilia, deigned berilern 1956 and 196G. Boih ttse alltnt- r'onfrd, steel Prangs bLiddil Lg ariapted to rise desert site It is a
S�
I
i
Il t mu d ern I3p 1 �3
simple, square, glass pa%dion vaicln wide eaves acing its Sun- .,, 1�,'� L• 4L V.t lr It 1�.�V L PJ L+ 1}
sltndes. The glass walls are SU denitly vvuhm Lbe lnd[ding s vol- \
n due. al hnri ng visibi Gn• front the sn ecL desired by commercial '•
ckicnts, :nut die son pra[ecuon dw desert tetluirea At a nminr _
co tier of Pal rn Canyon dI, glas, opens up the inlet nn of clip
building as pan or the puhlic space. A sp Stem of'.+I[dung metal - - -
filigiee screeti panels acts as fur[hersharle i❑ cite earl} and late
daydine, mul as a decorative elrtnenr. Coning out clnc strong
star, i[ ul[ons a ha[anced areflectiee halo. The prooudioa floor
slab, oatchntg the ru of slab; nmles Lite mnr-slur% structure
appeal to flaaL above its Site. Paned widt 11illiaun Petetra and
Cl tarles LudOffi]l'_ con LCm po rary Rnbi oxa u'n dell at❑n rot store
to its t+'est. the tiro buildings 1',rm a sarong Mode;[ eommet- ' _ -,�• N _ - �_- ,
vial metier. BnLh have writ p-a ranud glq S wall• both ex pies, n
11 snnple steel atrnn a r. both have node eaves.
Though the b:unk's prupamdrtc ,tyka t,as Bunted in it_ 1
fg�
uutuhet of rno'&•s. the departioeut amrr•_ vru6 a rude back al °. � � �, :` ;`+ _: 1;+'-` •� �' . 'i
,; l ,,t l
doors; at is siwed oil u su•pprd plindt Tlie wide s1 tar ra1 rav e� ` .II �. —:; _� �i
_ •5 �° _ �_
ate n 1 ilk by a r.,is nr t npei ed % r su can Lila et, 'i be Octr is p- it
l .",-•''� , _`.'�
pnrled tin a series of steel in he cult ut n as. st re tilt heal cr] by weh, - :� I', 1 i -
,JI ii f . ,�
Lltai rapes from cluu m)vide ut thus. wideSt a [he inIddle ultrte k E' v1 I '
rhea arc ands[ needed to ,trengtheu the thin column. The
' -
colwims air puIled out from cite glass %call. The building com- Saks Fifth Avenue joined
pares rav�orahh vaiih [he escellen[ IfjjC Robinsou's m ' '�'" "F•'= � - -���_- M5111sen's,I.Magnin's,
Y^ i
Pasadena aksu n be PCCC 'a and Luckmnu + � - .$ = - Hullock's and llesmond's in
F _
Palm Springs to cater to
City N a l i o n a l Bank t _ `}' ,A wealthy vacationers.Stylishly
fhe desert h13IdSeape'S ahsuactimns support a earietl of modern with its broad hon-
Moderan at cl it sect a rc s.V the flat hn r i zoo nod big cloudless Sky zontal canopy and glass-front
suggest nli aimalisl Lt. the weird shapes and rounded forms acen wall,its modernizedvigas—
in clue great bo ul dots of)tisl uta 11 ce National flat nnnent in the the ends o[roof beams
Ili-Ell desert an [tour from Palm Spruags. suggest die e.%pres- jut ting out of the wall intradi-
snouisni reflected ua the rounded lbrm, nl lirtne Gruen tional Southwest architec-
�•, Associate: C:iiy \ntiooal Bank opened in 1ugn•i iu j[J tore—linked the shop to the
A[ a tithe when the lla tit u•uu dater I knue Sat align} historical desert.
v r�
c01
i
t e m o E s r n - 3 e IRS
Bach s nrel viweuu al p[oe ra ILL. led h% nnu al i s[ ]{d lard Sheri s. Corhusiatt design than wits[ of Ptrt', work in [he desert.
wns cMdra a Standard in Sou[heru Galifonkw lot Modern P res,io ni SL lotrim, IJm pia Lit up,t+ept ruor. die ae}'uu nruLrca
deli en imst r pmLa Li it art an(1 ar n it nt eu[. bictor Gruen cc at p osit m u, du• and sit ely eXasae rated CO I er col anus wined
Aswr in Le, created a CI smut h:mk build in. [o march Client all Lill an eNpt exinu of sit ppo rt nod hollowed mu [u coma• a
1 h"Iy en It rcasi0u ist design. it used a s%%eepo[g ru rec rl roof' swal let r.}La pep-like interior spare Lit du; greater onhu n w.
-,upporied mt sculptaual 111cia and Litho in a inanoet renunis- \to[nh[r ore rd[c Rat to C ions on the high at t nt o(lel made h% Rohinsons department store
Len[ nl'Le C'nrhu cErt'I R Ill ch it i nip II WIWI. built f•i u• penis It r'e- a ill Ilr[1 Son hero ('alifortia contnteiridl Iesioner. Same ary at 333 South Palm Canyon by
i
i nu sl} Lit pi ante. ecouanuic nete=,ices: [he inau»w[, die ,tktr'rU, rand and steel., Pereira and Luckman repre-
The similarity wits not Lhatre Rttdt liamnfeld ehiel' of net concrrtr .1 he I'It»ht, of line in the ronl'line Thai Lc- sents yet another variation on
de]Ipn for I,rucn" Lo• Inaelrs Oflicr, had visncd Rctnchan[p f_k*[hu>ier wit, perntiued acre wudil'i rap ,uul reducer[ nitwit- mtdcenEury Modernism in
.utd _great It admired it report, hi,collea uc [it Gruen. WAImw pleXul iu the rmnmercial enn•u'onoiLun 13un the prevuce of the :real-preserved strut Lure.
Kr se 1. Pat[ or tlne 4 11,13J nit 01 turn rnercial dr�ivu include• dutonmhih• i1 rn.urili•sterl Will uEa,teLl'itlll ,hape, [he hudrhuu Slender sculpturally tap Bring
utcot Flo rat ink inta,es anal dwaLe, ill dn• pupulai cidnn e, ,hat Lind it,sin ing. The slns• Rr Lill:, on the not th and i% ,i open to the columns support abroad roof
is usual[} iuteresti»�It)Harr is bus. the rnndi[imt_. and lrrnz�rnm (ieu .nut the Iinht The uw•i tot Imr antes not a nt}'�te ri ORES with a xigx ag facia.Se t behind
alu•i and adapt dta.,e unaers. ,ins( .is 1l mtanxrn : budrl iugs chapel 01 crdnrrd fish[ hat an ail r pith[ie ,parr n1' art. st alp- the screen of columns,a wall of
were Lent Ales ICEinn ley_ [Ile use or nelimou: tntaacry for Li banl( lump chit ndehei, avid r01or. Though Lint .Lin ewcc copy of glass co ntrasts with a long
was ❑ppraprinLe. Row lining, not intended to he_ 3[ is in the adaptation and wall of sculpted cone ret a hlo Elk
Baluttl'eld,, edto of Ronch.unp s =_oat ink foenLs ero[,es a d1auees [hLiL the ripe pan tsc ends the of i-inal. [t is onlp a It a,s- counterbalancing the raised
mint lit[, ht i._.hter., nu»<• deniorrarir roar[stde et;ion of our al' able Rnoi h.uup but it is an rxrellen[ ('m• Vatimtal Bank pavilion.[]sing simple concrete
the bt 0ndi 1111 and nnr,terin[IS nnm nmett[1 op nLulren Lin ry It h ;3 R+a rl,i uo runt tile nuLiI ,lc•,wit that rah r, an odd. tri- blocks lit fora patterns in the
M,deru[sm It is RonchamP opr•urd to [he It,ht of day :u641 anaidar 'it'. awl ln• a huildin« and put'Lm" Io[ to it. A loin wall allows the sunlight to
(ludo lift• satlE +•adl, of `la.,. In iEl courideut ('nwwet'LI:EIP+R) all ..•,dl •[rr LL he, Ll[n n»one ,ii le on in([ian (:anpou. ,uppor[tng, change its texture throughout
and ro ad'i do site. I u• hhul. ref Ier•[_ its Gal tfln I ia cnlnu e. 1111 iri e�=u Lit It 91iape(I roof' deep and up.,R+•ep[ around in the day.Half of the original
131u311 WCI too[c ad et n[aee of[he next Eetw sti gcslions Le Nita e edge. The third cuppor[inL� Min( 111' [Ile huil(hna u a department store is currently
Co rhusicr of"IcrriI a[ Ro nc ha LiEp Lion t rr a[ed a iuo u• mn nra r(Ily IIuA holIou rolttnu[ ctx,ri e(I I I I iIliMIL slat hl Lie nu(caic tile- a occupied by Crown Books.
I
J
r !
U�
On triangle of commercial wa, lcnrnt u in Lit, office as`Audi's blink' a shade Lill'azure drat
properly behaeere Palm Canyon, could he found •umcn•herc. rep[ rills] d fr tend,Lill ant built iog
Indian Canyon and Ramon sits he deston ed. Glas, ri 11.. ut het wren (I w,P ltooe.I i e u,.inu pi[lit ra.
one of Palm Springs most luxu- The or not nice trnl program tl 4'pulcn[. :1 Cfern or fold
rious buildings:City National altodi zed npcowotk Iilifrce—acreu u•d Wi[h ,ad l Lied wood
Bank Designs d by Viclor Gruen [n Lac •—pi u[rc i, [hc. wes wrn t=lass „all. Willie sn[rrn col cr,
Associates of Beverly Hills and other malls In Lin ab=_u'.[r[ atduner Lite nor[ plaster [s an echo
opening in 1959,this amo r- nl'dte a iohe fie rots or iiie Sou[In,es[ Ruch ]i d ton fr]d emhrn a•d
phous structure exalted finan- the adobe image: -Tlir _=oft, iuunded curers and wu[erl rulor-
cial archttec Lure to the sacred; ioL, nr thr rx[ri int arc. sn in ei hiug Thai ,+r ltavc. Iried helure—
it's literally Modeled ona on 1lneitin's sin re i❑ Lan Vcsas. ' 6e ,rro[e "lie r,ere u[Iltr-
c[Lapel by one of the saints of en fret ht ,hai we have know n about the at uhe at chi wct at
H adorn archd ecture.Le nl [lip hu Ban,'
Curbu s ler.Still ma sUy intact, rliesn words G[il to a[fly explain such n building. a Spec-
the Its t of its tmp orted materr to c i dnr s[ruciure for a coin me rn nl d[stl ict char urea 1ladertu sotbF
a]s mclu fled whit a marb le and In erah atwinien aarl eaLike do itnnuatdl'ahlr and ntnu-
walnut tellercage fixtures, omen[. ]r .,reins au ituGlcelz c%pres=imti•[ic detitgn ]hr the
terrazzo Loins,teakemodpan- Grue❑ LiI'I'i rc a[ lit iint e. know n for i[s Am n•c 6 uv %,Lit I. in the
Piing,Rhodesian lion hair dc.rrl op Lit a Lit of rite sbopphig mall mt a imti o Fin I)as]S. Tr[ [;ruen
draperies,Italian chandeliers, had hegu❑ it dnzrn prm.; hr[nrr inn li n series or st uall do,w[- La
German Slate flooring, � unru t CIO il .hops [hat cl'fi•r[i,rh• used arrhilw9in-al drama Lisa
Japanese gra ss cloth well means [a sell
coverings and French blue 10 such a teutple, Lill car-mnhile Ckizcu is [Itr acnl}ne. _
mosaic t[le.Additional ameni- The haul is caned abrnr die p,uhin' lo[ Lin n classtral It6n[11
ties were pu sh-button fiber- j in col pot n[t u- [cr razzo pia uu•ra, sip ps and n purilving, ahun- ` -
- glass drapes and abuilt-in i dant faunlain, lmide., [hc nro-s(ory hauling* ronnt is nitarimts ai
floor scale for cost omers. acid air}', us werhe-shaped ,pace nr[icnlawd hr• wcll-scaled,
I �
artfully rntnpuacd pat i.v cursing Neal Is vul nrnvnco[a] details.
The broad ceiliol,s nerntsucal plaster pAnne lu,P, scalr wnh [he
[rgulut pre nrw Ai ult ul' 3cr aser 1 ligl us: n hecum es a si ug a l.0
client', dc�irr lot a building dint unuld ;mud our in a anti
].noie❑ Poi Aladel❑ dpsi¢u caurbiued B:unnlcicl tool. arhanitge
of[lie oltltnruuuc%.
- - - , " .I`. k uas a slat dine cltnnge from ill, one- and Luo-sport.
Filed roar il]nge of the ]sw, snrtrhina alnno P.Jin C•amon
nnl�� a few ]lark= on either side of T,�dtgmtz. TE,ae earl been
n clmrmiu„ cozy rdlarre 1utli nernbburboods rinse in, and
plenty of spare aiaunrl ibe bOIIWS Canhcr our. Now Palm
Sinings woe a Modern Village.
ALPHA OETh 11ARN ET
'1
ITru ' - - The qas sMiou, the cone[ aid The auherwailcce aie iconic
California roadside hui[diug nPI,- and Albert Fee% designed
etarnplcs of al ill ee.
Fret enjoyed lk"sv types as its 1,96O Npha Beta super-
- mat ket shows: be designed odic ro for Uphn Beta is Santo .Ana,
Bea unwnt. C[at uInora and Iidia In Palm Sp in gs. too vrinLre
- - for uin Fat rr shoo•, slnrad con inlet a luxe bntterCh tool In
be ni Pei a ..rind[ rut u'i$.u'II lends m a le.. .am Iles retail spares.
Along [lie enure ]uu« Montane—and deadmg EterP,•nrltcul.0 l�
con inm die purLiia Im—a mend Canolh} urth m zrgzag�an�
For the Modern city of the plane like dw ski. Ctntnins suetch across die )re-4 wino, cot magi ed a ICE a ioaC Pr nettles shacEc. Colorful rnosair lilts
car,City)National Rank prow CusLmn-designed chandeliers with peat-shaper[ 1'enini glnbps nmrk tbp, entries. ]aflurncerl h}' Lloyd %ight's litrc.rVine
Rank of America]built lavish 1•I091 in ids, airy space. maikei of 1915 and its artful use or coiruuawd metal and steel
mo no meat at a major intersec- B.Fa ld. a natize al" Ausu im as was his school friend supports, Frey updated them in ibis car-culnne design.
tion.The original Victor Gruen Victor Gruen, enitgrated to the Iluited States in I938 after
Associates rendering Iopposit el, IIider cool. Ausi ria, arriving in Los Angeles by I94O. He con- T R A N WAY GAS G T A T 10 N
captures the stylish optimism tinned his work m au aichitecL in Caliktrino. where be rrloiuecl The +erVice station Frey built ou ter nordt rally co unto
of Modernism in design infite Gruen. la Palish Springs he joined the Swiss Prey and fellow slhorred that I I P ]Val net] nn iclh rro in Cal i I ruin roadside atclu-
C Priced by Le Corbusiers chapel Au=Irian Nenrua in cvuiributirrg To [lie touv's irchotectnhe.But le et a re. Freya 1gG3 Tram yr ay as station is not The iaOST dah-
i
at Ronchamp,France. Ii Le Fi ep, Ba am veld adalxed his design to Califo rn r a., and Pat- ing., nm the MO51 sculprtu.nl, um- the moat in[lucitial service
titularly to the cmrnueicial landscape. station or its era It rs, bumeret., an cXcpllent eXnnhple of The
f60 Gruen office designed sel pull City rhational Ball, I%Pr. More succe�slul aF addtessiva die ronditiou-,ed't1Le Coll-
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Tull a new landmark in Palm Springs, the magnificent
City National Bank building with its sculptured design and
traditional mosaic blue overtones. 6eautlful surroundings, indeed, but the
same convenient, neighborly banking, that has made so many friends,
still prevails. Whether you wish to open a personal or commercial
checking account, start a savings program, borrow for any purpose
y or seek other banking services, be assured of complete satisfaclion at City National.
Courtesy customer parking for over 100 cars
CITY( BAN K
588 5o. Palm Canyon Drive at Indian Avenue - FAirview 4.3181
Offices in Beverly Hills, Venice, La Mirada and Palm Springs
MEMBER FEDERAL PCFOeIT,NSURANG=CORPORATION
i
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CITY OF PALM SPRINGS
HISTORIC SITE PRESERVATION BOARD MEETING
Minutes of Meeting -Tuesday, December 12, 2006 at 10:00 a.m.
Large Conference Room, City Hall, 3200 East Tahquitz Canyon Way
Palm Springs, California 92262
FY 2006-2007
Present Present Excused Absences
ROLL CALL This Meeting Year-to-Date To-Date
Sidney Williams, Chairperson X 7 0
Jade Nelson, Vice Chair X 5 2
James Hayton X 6 1
John Williams X 7 0
Harold "Bud" Riley X 8 0
Brian Strahl X 5 0
STAFF PRESENT.-
Craig Ewing, Director of Planning Loretta Moffett, Administrative Assistant
Ken Lyon, Associate Planner
. . ay .
1. The HSPB Special meeting was called to order at 8:16 a.m. on December 12, 2006 by Chair Sidney
Williams.
2. ROW- CALL: Present: S. Williams, J. Williams, J. Nelson, B, Riley, B. Strahl, J. Hayton
Absent: None
(2) City National Bank/Bank of America 588 South Palm Canyon Drive (1959)
PUBLIC COMMENTS:
Peter Moruzzi, ModCom, explained that the designer, Rudi Baumfeld of Victor Gruen Assoc. LA,
had just returned from visiting a monastery called Ronchamps in France and took that
inspiration and applied it to this building, which is why it has such an unusual shape and is
asymmetrical, has the curves, why its nothing like anything in Palm Springs and virtually any
place else. The architects are notable because they pioneered the concept of the shopping
center. It has Italian mosaic tile, original interior features such as the built-in clock. Highly
original in terms of integrity, has received awards for its integrity. ModCom supports this
designation.
Robert Imber supported Mr. Moruzzi's and ModCom's recommendations and added that this
building is representative of a lot of significant things important to the purview and mandate of
architectural history and the continuum of real architecture and true design.
PUBLIC COMMENTS CLOSED.
M/S/C (J, Nelson/J.Williams) to initiate the process to designate the City National Bank I
Bank of America building at 588 South Palm Canyon Drive as a Class 1 Historic Site.
6 Yes, 0 No, 0 Absent, 0 Abstentions.
Director Ewing stated that the record should reflect that this motion, the previous motion, and
any motions today on this line were offered under Historic Preservation Ordinance Section
8,05.166 Initiation of Proceedings.
- _s
HISTORIC SITEPRESERV .77ONBCARD
City ofPaGn Springs_Planaing cervices Department
PO Box 2743,Palm Springs, CA 92263 -- 760-323-8270
Tramway Gas Stat(on—HSPB#33
Photo munssy 0 Omar Ghulam
December 5, 2006
President
Bank of America National Trust
101 North Tryon Street
Charlotte, NC 28255
RE: Property at: 588 South Palm Canyon Drive - Bank of America Building
Dear Property Owner or Project Manager:
The Historic Preservation Site Board has identified the following properties as being of significant
historic importance, and wish to notify you that your property referenced above will be discussed
for potential historic designation at HSPB's December 12, 2006. The meeting starts at 8:15 a.m-
in the large conference room at City Hall, 3200 East Tahquitz Canyon Way, Palm Springs, CA-
I. Town and Country Center, 174 North Palm Canyon Drive
2. City National Bank/Bank of America, 588 South Palm Canyon Drive
3. Washington Mutual Bank/Coachella Valley S &L, 499 South Palm Canyon Drive
4. Santa Fe Federal Bank Building, 300 South Palm Canyon Drive
5- Oasis Commercial Building, 101-121 South Palm Canyon Drive
6. Invemada, 657 North Via Miraleste
A copy of the Agenda for that meeting is attached. If you wish to be present during the discussion
Of your property, you may address the Board during the Public Comment portion of the meeting or
at the time your property is being discussed. If you are unable to attend, but wish to make your
comments known, please fax your statement to my attention at 760-322.8360. You may also call
me at any time during the week day at 760-323.8245, M. 8786, or e-mail to
Ken.Lyon@pahasprings-ca.gov.
Thank you for your attention and cooperation.
Sincerely,
Ken Lyon
Associate Planner
cc: Branch Manager, Bank of America, 588 South Palm Canyon Drive, Palm Springs, CA 92262
• Attachment:
1. HSPB Meeting Agenda
2. Historic Survey Information Sheet
C'+M
DATE SUBMITTI D �d%
CASE NO. J °
(To be assigned)
Pro oEV
CITY OF PALM SPRINGS
Department of Planning &Building
Historic Site Designation
TO THE APPLICANT:
Your cooperation in completing this application and supplying the information requested will
expedite City review of your application pursuant to local procedure. Applications submitted will
not be considered complete until all submittal requirements are met. Staff may require additional
information depending upon the specific project needs.
Please submit this an lication and sub uent materialth to e D artment of Planning &Building,
NAME OF APPLICANT 16 L&/C ST,E 0 al6S6-Aff % 13CAQ6 A, rgaF IA414
pernlG--s
Check One: ❑ Owner ❑ Lessee
p ❑ Authorized Agent
Applicant's Address: -Z 061 E• J eAX1CQrZ/%Z-1 C��f¢//,V ye1V zUA y
L.�'YJ �iP�lN(oS Lam} 7aZa�oo�
Telephone Number: _(A-0) 7-
Site Address: S� �OLt bv�_ 114 JLb i2t V E.
Construction Date: pp ❑ Estimated ❑ Factual
i �
Architect: _u� ) f �J U M F E O) UJC Tv(,� (;12u r N l4 5s ae-
Builder:
Present Owner: 6A] q k lIi F AiM 6:112 tC u4 7�f�i i�4 � �t�5 T 4' S'A u I N G
Original Owner: —Lrq ly4- L 3 Atq hC
HSD
Revised 8/98 4
0,,-,,r,O
Important Owners:
Other Historic Associations:
Common Name :Rp H K, OF Ad �- I C Historic Name: `! — R T/Ly,6 L 8,j A(K
Assessor's Parcel Number: 67a r - 986 - Oe
Zone: eg Lc_el Land Use: lam-' gMEL C/
Is this project on :fee land or Indian trust land []? (Check One)
0 eel
HSD
Revised 8/98 5
Please check the appropriate boxes:
ARCHITECTURAL STYLE
❑ Vernacular Adobe 1800-1950 ❑ Bungalow 1895-1930
❑ Vernacular Wood Frame 1850-1950 ❑ Prairie Style 1905-1930
❑ Vernacular Brick 1850-1950 ❑ Pueblo Revival 1905-1940
❑ Vernacular Ranch House 1850-1950 ❑ Mediterranean/Spanish Rv. 1915-194o
❑ Vernacular (other) 1850-1950 ❑ Moderne/Art Deco 1920-1940
❑ Gothic Revival 1850-1910 1� International Style 1925-1950
❑ Italiante 1860-1880 ❑ California Style Post-1945
❑ French Second Empire 1960-1890 ❑ Commercial
❑ Mission Revival 1890-1920 Other:
❑ Craftsman Bungalow 1895-1920 Ink h 1-/J l"01�1 n4 e f L o r e
PRIMARY BUTLDING MATERIAL ROOF TYPE
❑ Wood Frame ❑ Gable ❑ Other:
❑ Log ❑ Hip
❑ Adobe Brick ❑ Half-Hipped
❑ Brick ❑ Gablet
❑ Stone ❑ Shed
❑ stucco ❑ Gambrel
Concrete Flat
Metal ❑ Mansard
Other: Hipped Gable
Are there any significant decorative elements? ❑ Yes ❑ No
If yes, briefly describe:
s 2 SY RONCn�Mif C�7X�gL( /A/ F7 24aVZ�t-- 9LI
orN;til �� iN72N 5;\ � 0PPr4W 19—?
HSD
Revised 8/98 �
RELATED FEATURES SURROUNDINGS
❑ Barn ❑ Open Land
❑ Carriage House ❑ Scattered Buildings
❑ Garage ❑ Densely Built-up
❑ Shed ALTERATIONS
❑ Outhouse ❑ Major
❑ Windmill ❑ Minor
❑ Water Tower ❑ Unaltered
❑ Tankhouse If altered, briefly describe:
❑ Hitching Post
❑ Fence
❑ Wall
❑ Unusual Curb
❑ Unusual Sidewalk PRESENT CONDTTION
❑ Formal Gardens TKExcellent
❑ Unusual Trees ❑ Good
❑ Expansive Lawns ❑ Fair
❑ Other: ❑ Deteriorated
❑ Destroyed
USE OF BUILDING
Q
Current Use:
Original Use:
Please list any sources used to complete this application:
tC5¢ (Cr
HSD
Revised 8/98 7
,Stat"eofsCaliforniaiL-,Ther Resources,A ac r- rime 1k':=ors,:,;.' , '• - `' - _9� ,y:' R ry' Ir
O' RTME14T OF EPAARKSAND RECREATION' °N'.. - -
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i'- ARYRECORDT ;a
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Page 1 of 3 Resource Name or#: (Assigned by recorder) Bank of America
PI.Other Identifier: originally built as City National Bank
P2.Location: [I Not for Publication X Unrestricted a.County Riverside
and(P21b and Plc or P2d.Attach a Location Map as necessary.)
b.USGS 7.5'Ouad Palm Springs Date 1996 _ T _; R 1/4 of 1/4 of Sec B.M.
c. Address 588 South Palm Canyon Drive Clty Palm Springs Zip 92262 _
d. UTM: (Give more than one for large and/or linear resources) Zone 1 f mI-/ mN
e.Other Looational Data: (e.g„parcel tl,directions to resource,elevation,etc.,as appropriate)
City of Palm Springs Section 22
Parcel No. 513 280 004
P3a.Description: (Desonbe resource and Its major elements.Include design,matenals,cnndilion,alterations,size,setting,and boundaries)
Originally designed by Rudi Baumfeld, chief of design for the Los Angeles office of Victor Gruen Associates, and constructed in 1959
as the City National Bank building, this monumental building is spectacularly sited at the intersection of South Palm Canyon Drive
and South Indian Canyon Drive, serving as a visual landmark for Palm Springs. The building has an irregular square-ish plan with
curving exterior walls and Ronchamp roofline based on Le Corbusier's 1954 design of the Notre Dame du Haut Chapel. The curving
roofline features a wide overhang that extends beyond the exterior walls- The south elevation features a curved exterior wall
covered in aqua blue mosaic tiles with a raised concrete path curving around the fagade and leading to the bank lobby entrance on
the north elevation. The west fagade is comprised of deeply recessed, metal-framed window walls,with a wide curving pillar at the
northwest building corner. The north elevation features similar metal-framed window wall sections surrounding the central bank
lobby entrance featuring two double-entry doors. An ATM is set into a wide curving pillar at the northeast corner and features a
rounded awning with a blue mosaic tile frieze. The south elevation features a linear wall that is devoid of architectural ornament
except for three openings at the southeast corner which feature blue mosaic tiles. Expansive parking fills the north side of the lot. A
drive-through ATM station with a similar Ronchamp roofline is present at the northern edge of the lot. Overall,the building appears
to be in good condition, and is an excellent example of Modern commercial architecture in Palm Springs.
3b_Resource Attributes: HP5. 1-3 story Commercial Building
P4.Resources Present: Z Building ❑Structure ❑Object ❑Site I I District ❑Element of District ❑Other(Isolates,etc.)
P5a. Photo Or Drawing(Photo required for buildings,structures,and objects.) P5b. Description of Photo:(View,date,accession 4)
View North
,,,b�• ,_,�. .r,l, .ti, August2003
'^, _ (,�' PG. Date Constructed/Age and Sources:
Historic ❑Prehistoric ❑Both
.,II _ WJ. l.- ,��i���1 .. . c. 1959
'Arpyai\Y !r rr I'I _ ni r . : J
:'r .r�l P7.Owner and Address:
I BofA Natl Trust&Svgs c/o Burr Wolff
LP
PO Box 2818
P8. Recorded by:
, Maley/Petrin�nsleyNVatson
_ s� � r;• _ Architectural Resources Group
Pier 9, The Embarcadcro
San Francisco, CA 94111
P9. Date Recorded: August 2003
,• ,,,:Y:v.�;� ,..._.H_t,;.�,,;�,„�',c�• P10.SurveyType(Describe)
6 '• '"-;,.'; ,�� „•„s.� ';;,.�tr� .__.�;�v^+rr._ �'i•�'r",.'`. _ Reconnaissance Survey
P11.Report Citation:(Cite survey report and other sources,or enter"none.")
Architectural Resources Group, City of Palm Springs Historic Resources Survey Summary Report,2004.
tachments:
❑None ®Continuation Sheet ❑District Record Ll Rock Art Record r]Other(List)
❑Location Map ® Building, Structure,and Object Record ❑Linear Feature Record ❑Artifact Record
❑Sketch Map ❑Archaeological Record ❑Milling Station Record ❑Photograph Record
DPR 523A(1195)
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ige 2 of 3— NRHP Status Code 5S3
Resource Name or#:(Assigned by recorder) Bank ofAmerica
B1, Historic Name: City National Bank
62.Common Name: Bank of America
133. original Use; Bank B4. Present Use: Hank
B5.Architectural Style-_Modern
136.Construction History:_(Construction date,alterations,and date of alterations)
This building was constructed in 1959.
B7.Moved? Z No [j Yes Cj Unknown Date: Original Location:
B8. Related Features:
Building is set in a distinctive location at the"wye"of two main thoroughfares.
B9a.Archltect; RudiBaumfeld of Victor Gruen Associates b. Builder, Unknown
B10.Significance: Theme commercial anchitecturefdovelopment Area Palm Springs
Period of Significance 1960s-1970s Property Type commercial building Applicable Criteria A, C(G)
(Discuss importance in terms-0mistorical or architectural context as defined by theme,period,and geographic scope.Also address integrity.)
For centuries the habitat of the Agua Caliente band of Cahuilla Indians, Palm Springs,site of natural hot springs and sunny desert
climate, drew its first non-Indian visitors in the late 19th century. For reasons of improved health and recuperation,the first sealers
established early hotels and inns. Not until 1938 did the village of Palm Springs incorporate, setting out a gridded street plan and
zoning controls. By then Palm Springs had already acquired an identity as a winter retreat for Hollywood stars and the wealthy, as
evidenced by the exclusive older neighborhoods of Old Las Palmas,the Movie Colony, Little Tuscany, and the Tennis Club quarter,
initially built for winter residents. Defined by elegant, grand architecture in predominantly Spanish and Mediterranean styles, these
and other neighborhoods were later filled in with mid-century Modern homes by the end of the 1960s.
During toe pose-WW11 era,the City of Palm Springs prospered, relying on tourism, resorts,and the appeal of golf, tennis, polo, and
other sports to fuel the economy. During the Palm Springs heyday, tourists and Hollywood discovered the desert oasis and
full-scale hotels,smaller inns, nightclubs and restaurants prospered. Concurrently, from the 1940s through the 1960s, Palm Springs
was transformed into an increasingly urban environment, building schools, hospitals and an airport and other civic amenities. The
commercial core of the City, long concentrated along the main thoroughfares of Palm Canyon Drive and Indian Canyon Drive,
flourished. Expanding residential development began in the early 1960s when large tracts of popular, reasonably priced,
Modemist-style homes were constructed by Jack Meiselman and later, George and Robert Alexander throughout Palm Springs.
Tract subdivision development was followed by the establishment of condominiums, initially as second-homes in the 1960s, (See
Continuation Sheet)
B1 1.Additional Resource Attributes HP6- 1-3 story Commercial Building
812.References:
Architectural Resources Group, City of Palm Springs Historic (Sketch Map with north arrow required.)
Resources Survey Summary Report,2004. (report contains full
bibliography)
31�UIA
B13. Remarks "9
r 1 L!
-uy :�
OW �7-11
� 2.
Maley/PetrinMnsley[Watson 4
614.Evaluator:
Architectural Resources Group
V
Date of Evaluation: August 2003
(This space reserved for official comments.)
Lot d
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ige 3 of 3 Resource Name or 0:(Assigned by recorder) Hank of Am
erica y
Recorded by Maley/PetrinMnsley/WatsorArch. Resources Group Date August 2003 ®Continuation . 1 Update
810, Significance Continued
Prominently sited at the fork of South Indian Canyon and South Palm Canyon,the Bank of America building serves as an icon of
modem architecture in Palm Springs. The bank building reflects the context of commercial development in this area in the 1950s
and 1960s. The building was built in 1959- The structure retains a high degree of integrity and maintains almost all of its historic
fabric;the location,design, materials,workmanship,feeling,and association appear to remain unchanged since the building was
constructed. The setting,at this high-profile location, is intact and conveys the original feeling and design intent.
The bank building at 588 South Palm Canyon appears to meet the level of significance necessary for individual National Register of
Historic Places or California Register of Historical Resources eligibility at the local level. An interesting example of bank
architecture,the building represents the overall commercial development of downtown Palm Springs from the 1920s to the 1960s,
contributes to the character and scale of the main commercial street,and serves as an unofficial landmark of Palm Springs.
Further,the building is the work of master architect, Rudi Baunni chief of design for the Los Angeles office of Victor Gruen
Associates,thus has an elevated level of significance for its association with a prolific local architect of national prominence.This is
an exceptional example of its type,period, or method of construction.
Because of the building's visual quality, history, intact setting, and high integrity, and as an outstanding example of commercial
architecture,the building represents the overall commercial development of downtown Palm Springs during the post-war era and
contributes to the mid-century modernist character so strongly identified with Palm Springs.
This property is nearing 50 years of age. According to National Register Bulletin 15, properties that have achieved significance
within the last 50 years, must meet Criteria G. This consideration of exceptional importance guards against the listing of properties
of passing contemporary interest. As stated above, this property appears to meet the level of significance necessary for individual
National Register of Historic Places or California Register of Historical Resources eligibility at the local level and is typical of the
pattern of commercial development downtown that occurred in the City of Palm Springs in the 1960s and 1970s and is an
outstanding example of the pattern of buildings within this context.
0,' '66