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HomeMy WebLinkAbout1/13/2016 - STAFF REPORTS - 1.A.QALM SA A. °may Q V N •£ yC c� �fMRaIEO � A C'041FORN% CITY COUNCIL STAFF REPORT DATE: January 13, 2016 PUBLIC HEARING SUBJECT: AN APPLICATION BY GARY AND JOAN GAND (OWNERS) IN COLLABORATION WITH THE PALM SPRINGS PRESERVATION FOUNDATION (PSPF), REQUESTING CLASS 1 HISTORIC DESIGNATION FOR "THE THEODORE & CLAIRE MORSE RESIDENCE" LOCATED AT 1197 ABRIGO ROAD, ZONE R-1-C (HSPB #94) AND CEQA DETERMINATION FROM: Department of Planning Services SUMMARY The owners of the Theodore & Claire Morse Residence are seeking Class 1 historic designation for the site. The Morse Residence is a single family home in the Vista Las Palmas neighborhood, designed by architects Palmer & Krisel and built by the Alexander Construction Company in 1960. Its design was significantly enlarged and modified in 1961 by Hal Levitt, a regionally significant architect who designed many custom homes in the Los Angeles area for film and motion picture celebrities including many in the well-known "Trousdale Estates" neighborhood. RECOMMENDATION: 1. Open the public hearing and receive public testimony. 2. Adopt Resolution , "A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PALM SPRINGS, CALIFORNIA DESIGNATING 1197 ABRIGO ROAD (THE THEODORE & CLAIRE MORSE RESIDENCE) CLASS 1 HISTORIC SITE #94; SUBJECT TO CONDITIONS, AND DETERMINE THE PROJECT AS EXEMPT PURSUANT TO CEQA AS A CLASS 31 CATEGORICAL EXEMPTION". BACKGROUND AND SETTING: The historic resources report date stamped March 3, 2015 provides a full description of the subject site. ITEM NO. \f'% The Desert Sun Certificate of Publication, pug 750 N Gene Autry Trail Palm Springs, CA 92262 760-778-45781 Fax 760-778-4731 State of California ss: County of Riverside Advertiser: CITY OF PALM SPRINGSILEGALS Po BOX 2743 PALM SPRINGS CA 92263 Order# 0000958091 I am over the age of 18 years old, a citizen of the United States and not a party to, or have Interest in this matter. I hereby certify that the attached advertisement appeared in said newspaper (set in type not smaller than non pariel) in each and entire issue of saidthereof newspaper and not in any Supplement on the following dates, to wit: Newspaper: The Desert Sun 1/2/2016 I acknowledge that 1 am a principal clerk of the printer of The Desert Sun, printed and published weekly in the City of Palm Springs, County of Riverside, State of California. The Desert Sun was adjudicated a Newspaper of general circulation on March 24, 1988 by the Superior Court of the County of Riverside, State of California Case No. 191236 I declare under penalty of perjury that the foregoing is true and correct. Executed on this 2nd day of JANUARY. 2016 in Palm Springs, Calif nia. Declara ec 1�Y 1 No 0011: Mean to: to CA 92 Any c those Si -11-Ae 11 3c;44w recommendation by the Historic She e residence at 1197 Abrigo Road a oeyenwamh...no swm, ,ms r�sxay W t a a " Crr `oFP4M6Pf VW1s rose to this notice'may be made ng before the hearing. Yfritten letter (for mail or hand delweiy) quit/ Canyon Way, Palm Springs, et may be limited to raising only ribed ip this Notice or in written or prior to, the City Council hear. Ions reggarding this case may be directed to Ken Lyon, RA.'Assati- t 323-8241 uda con esta Carta, portavar (lame a la Ciudad de Palm Springs y con Felipe Prlmera telefono (760} 323-8253. Published: 112)16 City Council Staff Report January 13, 2016 Case HSPB-94; 1197 Abrigo Road - Application for Class 1 historic designation Page 2 of 7 The single family residence at 1197 Abrigo Road is located in one of the many tracts developed in Palm Springs by the Alexander Construction Company in the late 1950's and early 1960's. Although it was designed by the architectural firm of Palmer & Krisel, it bears little resemblance to the other "Alexander" homes in the Vista las Palmas neighborhood. This is because in 1961, the home's first owners, Theodore & Claire Morse, commissioned architect Hal Levitt to design a substantial modification and addition to the home, significantly changing its appearance. Perhaps the most unique characteristic of the home is the interface between the living room and the swimming pool. When the two massive sliding glass pocket doors are open and slid entirely behind the flanking fieldstone walls, the visual integration of indoors and outdoors is literally seamless. Levitt masterfully sets the fieldstone walls at different angles to frame the opening, then "dissolves" the wall plane by bringing the exterior fieldstone cladding inside and applying it on certain interior walls. He then further blurs the line between inside and outside by extending the ceiling plane of the living room out over the swimming pool. Levitt used this "push and pull" of interior and exterior walls, materials and ceiling planes to create a sophisticated and very memorable sense of "indoor -outdoor" living. N F RWA, 0 II THE HOME'S POOL WITH ITS "COLUMN ISLAND", FEATURES A SWIM -UP BAR. WHEN THE LARGE SLIDING GLASS POCKET DOORS ARE OPEN IT IS ALMOST INDISTINGUISHABLE WHERE THE INDOOR STOPS AND THE OUTDOOR BEGINS. City Council Staff Report January 13, 2016 Case HSPB-94; 1197 Abrigo Road - Application for Class 1 historic designation Page 3 of 7 Related Relevant City Actions by HSPB, Planning, Fire, Buildin_a, etc... May 26, & 28, 2015 Site inspection by members of the HSPB and City Staff. June 9, 2015 HSPB voted to recommend Class 1 designation. Neighborhood Meetina None I Ownership Status 2013 1 Purchase by current owner. ANALYSIS: Historic Preservation activities in Palm Springs are regulated under Municipal Code Section 8.05 ("Historic Preservation'). Section 8.05.020 of the Municipal Code provides the definition of a historic site as follows. The historic resources report evaluated the application against this definition, the summary of which is provided below. (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: The Theodore & Claire Morse Residence is significant because of its design and aesthetic effect, as characterized further in the historic resources report and this staff report. 1. That is associated with events that have made a meaningful contribution to the nation, state or community; or Contrary to the historic resources report, staff does not believe the site is associated with events that have made a meaningful contribution to the national state or local community. 2. That is associated with lives of persons who made meaningful contribution to national, state or local history; or The subject site does not meet this criterion. 3. That reflects or exemplifies a particular period of the national, state or local history; or The Theodore & Claire Morse Residence (TCMR) possesses many of the distinctive characteristics, detailing, and styling reflective of the post-war period of development in Palm Springs. During this period, many local developers, hoteliers, homeowners and 0 3 City Council Staff Report January 13, 2016 Case HSPB-94; 1197 Abrigo Road -Application for Class 1 historic designation Page 4 of 7 merchants embraced Modern architecture, adapting it to the desert climate and casual lifestyle. The Morse Residence exemplifies the post-war period in architecture in two ways: (1) it began life as a conventional post-war modernist tract house, constructed of inexpensive mass-produced materials using post and beam construction, and (2) the Levitt -designed addition and reconfiguration gave the home more of a custom-built quality, making use of higher quality materials and infusing it with "Hollywood Regency" - like architectural details, a style that reached its zenith of popularity in the post-war sixties. 4. That embodies the distinctive characteristics of a type, period or method of construction; The original structure of the TCMR was built using inexpensive mass-produced materials and conventional "post and beam" construction, which was common in the 50's and 60's in most of the Alexander Construction Company tract homes built in Palm Springs, as well as the many Eichler homes found throughout California. The Levitt - designed addition appears to be of conventional "stick built" frame and stucco construction with stone veneer. Certain aspects of the design of the home are unique and distinctive (such as the sunken living room, the large sliding glass pocket doors, and the integration of the swimming pool with the living room), and the method of construction allowing a thin roof profile with significantly long spans between columns is significant. 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 home presents the talent of architect Hal Levitt. Levitt was an architect of regional significance, having designed many residential commissions for celebrities in the movie industry in Los Angeles, the Riviera Hotel in Las Vegas and most notably, many homes in Trousdale Estates in Beverly Hills. Levitt's work, while solidly grounded in the Modern period of architecture, exhibits characteristics of the Regency style which was popular during the sixties especially in Los Angles. Other examples of Levitt's work in Palm Springs include the Abe Schwartz residence (below). 04 City Council Staff Report January 13, 2016 Case HSPB-94; 1197 Abrigo Road - Application for Class 1 historic designation Page 5 of 7 Levitt's work can often be distinguished from that of other architects practicing in that period by his grandly -scaled exuberant spatial sequences, eclectic "Regency styled" decorative interiors, and a masterful interplay between indoor and outdoor living. Levitt had the good fortune of receiving many commissions from wealthy patrons, which allowed him greater opportunities to experiment with high quality materials, custom millwork and finishes, and expansive covered terraces and loggias with over -sized sliding glass pocket doors, and interesting angles. The Morse residence possesses these characteristics. 6. That represents a significant and distinguishable entity whose components may lack individual distinction; The subject property does not meet this condition. 7. That has yielded or may be likely to yield information important to national, state or local history or prehistory. The historic resources report does not identify any archaeological or pre -historical relevancy to this site. Designation of Historic Sites. Only the City Council is authorized to designate historic sites. When the Historic Site Preservation Board determines that Class 1 historic designation of a certain site or district would further the purpose of the Historic Preservation Ordinance, the Board may initiate studies, surveys and investigations it deems necessary to adequately gather information in consideration of such a recommendation to the City Council. Conditions that apply 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 a 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 marker explaining the historic nature of the site will be installed at the site in a location viewable from the public way. 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. Definina Dhvsical characteristics that contribute to the historic significance of the site: The physical character -defining historic features of this site include the following: V5 City Council Staff Report January 13, 2016 Case HSPB-94, 1197 Abrigo Road - Application for Class 1 historic designation Page 6 of 7 1. The concrete "Empress" screenblock wall on the front fagade of the home. 2. The oversized glass sliding pocket doors on the west fagade between the living room and the swimming pool. 3. The angular swimming pool that abuts the exterior living room wall, including the "island column". 4. The fieldstone walls on the exterior and interior of the home.' 5. The extended roofline spanning over the swimming pool. 6. The terrazzo walkways at the front of the house (excluding the "Fritztile" terrazzo - looking tiles on the driveway). 7. The "Shadowal" concrete block perimeter wall along the north property line. REQUIRED FINDINGS In considering a recommendation for Class 1 historic designation, pursuant to Municipal Code Section 8.05.160, the Board and the City Council shall find that the purposes of the Historic Preservation chapter are furthered by designation of such property as a historic site or district. The purpose of the Historic Preservation chapter of the Municipal Code is outlined in PSMC 8.05.010: This chapter is adopted pursuant to the authority of (California) Government Code Section 37361 for the purpose of preserving areas and specific buildings of the city which reflect elements of its cultural, social, economic, political, architectural and archaeological history. This chapter is intended to stabilize and improve buildings, structures or areas which are considered to be of historical, architectural, archaeological or ecological value, to foster civic beauty, to strengthen the local economy and to promote the use of specific buildings for the education and welfare of the citizens. Class 1 designation of the Morse Residence would further the purpose of the historic preservation ordinance because it reflects elements of the City's architectural, social, and cultural history as follows: Criterion 3: it reflects the Modem period in architecture and design that was popular in the post-war period in Palm Springs and the elsewhere in the nation. Criterion 4: It reflects a method of construction that is significant. Criterion 5: It presents the work of Hal Levitt, an architect of regional significance whose work possesses high artistic value. ' Although the interior of privately owned sites are not subject to HSPB review, the interior rock walls that match the exterior rock walls are integral in creating the visual seamlessness between inside and outside areas around the pool. City Council Staff Report January 13, 2016 Case HSPB-94; 1197 Abrigo Road - Application for Class 1 historic designation Page 7 of 7 CONCLUSION The Morse Residence meets the definition of a historic site as outlined in the Municipal Code under Criterion 3, 4 and 5; reflecting the post-war period of architectural design and construction and presenting the work of Hal Levitt, an architect of regional significance. Its designation as a Class 1 historic site will further the purpose of the Historic Preservation Ordinance. 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 (Class 31 Categorical Exemption). NOTIFICATION Pursuant to section 8.05.140 of the Municipal Code of Palm Springs, All property owners within five hundred (500) 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 not received any inquiries on this matter. ffinngg, AIC Marcus L. Fuller, MPA, P.E., P.L.S. Director of Planning Services Assistant City Manager/City Engineer David H. Ready, Esq., P443r' City Manager Attachments: 1. Vicinity Map 2. Draft Resolution 3. HSPB minutes excerpt dated June 9, 2015 4. Historic Resources Survey, Application, letter of support from the owner, and related documents. 07 0 Department of Planning Services Vicinity Map ii tip' I LU > VIAVADERA { -tit -& 1z cc Legend M site O 500 Feet Radius 10 10 A I F CITY OF PALM SPRINGS --d ;0 LU M RESOLUTION NO. A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PALM SPRINGS, CALIFORNIA DESIGNATING 1197 ABRIGO ROAD (THE THEODORE & CLAIRE MORSE RESIDENCE) CLASS 1 HISTORIC SITE #94; SUBJECT TO CONDITIONS, AND DETERMINE THE PROJECT AS EXEMPT PURSUANT TO CEQA AS A CLASS 31 CATEGORICAL EXEMPTION THE CITY COUNCIL FINDS AND DETERMINES AS FOLLOWS A. Gary & Joan Gand, ("Applicant and owner") in collaboration with the Palm Springs Preservation Foundation (PSPF) have filed an application with the City pursuant to Article III of Section 8.05 ("Procedure for Designation of Historic Sites or Historic Districts") of the Palm Springs Municipal Code requesting Class 1 historic site designation for the parcel located at 1197 Abrigo Road (APN 505-092-007). The application included a historic resources report prepared by the Palm Springs Preservation Foundation (PSPF) dated March 3, 2015. B. On May 26 & 28, 2015, members of the Historic Site Preservation Board (HSPB) and city staff conducted site inspections to familiarize themselves with the subject site. C. On June 9, 2015, a noticed public hearing to consider Case HSPB 94 was held by the HSPB in accordance with applicable law. D. The proposed historic site designation is considered a "project' pursuant to the terms of the California Environmental Quality Act ("CEQA"), and has been determined to be Categorically Exempt as a Class 31 exemption ("historic resources restoration /rehabilitation) pursuant to Section 15331 of the CEQA Guidelines. E. The HSPB carefully reviewed and considered all of the evidence presented in connection with the hearing on the project, including, but not limited to, the staff report, and all written and oral testimony presented and voted 7-0 to recommend Class 1 historic site designation for the Theodore & Claire Morse Residence at 1197 Abrigo Road to the City Council. F. On January 13, 2016, a noticed public hearing to consider Case HSPB 94 was held by the City Council in accordance with applicable law. G. The City Council carefully reviewed and considered all of the evidence presented in connection with the hearing on the project, including, but not limited to, the staff report, and all written and oral testimony presented. City Council Resolution January 13, 2016 Case HSPB 94; 1197 Abrigo Road "The Theodore & Claire Morse Residence" Page 2 of 5 THE CITY COUNCIL RESOLVES: SECTION 1. The subject parcel is eligible for consideration as a historic site because it conforms to the following criteria established in Palm Springs Municipal Code (PSMC) Section 8.05.020 ("Definitions') (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: The Theodore & Claire Morse Residence is significant because of its design and aesthetic effect. Criterion 3: That reflects or exemplifies a particular period of the national, state or local history; or The Theodore & Claire Morse Residence (TCMR) possesses many of the distinctive characteristics, detailing, and styling reflective of the post-war period of development in Palm Springs. During this period, many local developers, hoteliers, homeowners and merchants embraced Modern architecture, adapting it to the desert climate and casual lifestyle. The Morse Residence exemplifies the post-war period in architecture in two ways: (1) it began life as a conventional post-war modernist tract house, constructed of inexpensive mass-produced materials using post and beam construction, and (2) the Levitt -designed addition and reconfiguration gave the home a custom-built quality, making use of higher quality materials and infusing it with "Hollywood Regency" -like architectural details, a style that reached its zenith of popularity in the post-war sixties. Criterion 4: That embodies the distinctive characteristics of a type, period or method of construction; The original structure of the TCMR was built using inexpensive mass-produced materials and conventional "post and beam" construction, which was common in the 50's and 60's in most of the Alexander Construction Company tract homes built in Palm Springs, as well as the many Eichler homes found throughout California. The Levitt -designed addition appears to be of conventional "stick built" frame and stucco construction with stone veneer. Certain aspects of the design of the home are unique and distinctive (such as the sunken living room, the large sliding glass pocket doors, and the integration of the swimming pool with the living room), and the method of construction allowing a thin roof profile with significantly long spans between columns is significant. Criterion 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; 1.0 City Council Resolution January 13, 2016 Case HSPB 94; 1197 Abrigo Road "The Theodore & Claire Morse Residence" Page 3 of 5 The home presents the talent of architect Hal Levitt. Levitt was an architect of regional significance, having designed many residential commissions for celebrities in the movie industry in Los Angeles, the Riviera Hotel in Los Vegas and most notably, many homes in Trousdale Estates in Beverly Hills. Levitt's work, while solidly grounded in the Modern period of architecture, exhibits characteristics of the Regency style which was popular during the sixties especially in Los Angles. Levitt's work can often be distinguished from that of other architects practicing in that period by his grandly -scaled exuberant spatial sequences, eclectic "Regency styled" decorative interiors, and a masterful interplay between indoor and outdoor living. Levitt had the good fortune of receiving many commissions from wealthy patrons, which allowed him greater opportunities to experiment with high quality materials, custom millwork and finishes, and expansive covered terraces and loggias with over -sized sliding glass pocket doors, and interesting angles. The Morse residence possesses these characteristics. SECTION 2. DEFINING HISTORIC CHARACTERISTICS: The physical character - defining historic features of this site include the following: 1. The concrete "Empress" screenblock wall on the front fagade of the home. 2. The oversized glass sliding pocket doors on the west fagade between the living room and the swimming pool. 3. The angular swimming pool that abuts the exterior living room wall, including the "island column". 4. The fieldstone walls on the exterior and interior of the home.' 5. The extended roofline spanning over the swimming pool. 6. The terrazzo walkways at the front of the house (excluding the "Fritztile" terrazzo - looking tiles on the driveway). 7. The "Shadowal" concrete block perimeter wall along the north property line. SECTION 3: FINDINGS. Pursuant to PSMC 8.05.160 ("Findings and Decisions — Resolution"), the HSPB and City Council must make findings in support of the historic site designation as follows: "If the city council shall find that the purposes of this chapter are furthered by designation of property as an historic site or district, such findings shall be stated in a resolution designating such property within such historic site or district. " The purpose of the Historic Preservation Chapter of the Palm Springs Municipal Code is outlined in PSMC Section 8.05.010 as follows: ' Although the interior of privately owned sites are not subject to Class 1 designation, the interior rock walls that match the exterior rock walls are integral in creating the visual seamlessness between inside and outside areas around the pool I City Council Resolution January 13, 2016 Case HSPB 94; 1197 Abrigo Road "The Theodore & Claire Morse Residence" Page 4 of 5 "This chapter is adopted pursuant to the authority of Government Code Section 37361 for the purpose of preserving areas and specific buildings of the city which reflect elements of its cultural, social, economic, political, architectural and archaeological history. This chapter is intended to stabilize and improve buildings, structures or areas which are considered to be of historical, architectural, archaeological or ecological value, to foster civic beauty, to strengthen the local economy and to promote the use of specific buildings for the education and welfare of the citizens." Class 1 historic site designation of the Morse Residence would further the purpose of the historic preservation ordinance because it reflects elements of the City's architectural, social, and cultural history as denoted in Criterion 3 (reflecting the Modern period in architecture and design) and Criterion 5 (It presents the work of Hal Levitt, an architect of regional significance whose work possesses high artistic value.) SECTION 4: 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 (Class 31 Categorical Exemption). SECTION 5. The City Council hereby designates the parcel at 1197 Abrigo Road (APN 505-092-007) "The Theodore & Claire Morse Residence" Class 1 Historic Site #HSPB 94, subject to the following conditions: 1. The property owner shall permit the City to place a historic marker of the City's choosing at the site. The 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 plaque is lost, stolen, or otherwise removed from the property. 2. All future modifications of the existing structures, as well as, any new buildings proposed on the site shall require HSPB review pursuant Municipal Code Ordinance 8.05.180. 3. All requirements of the Palm Springs Zoning Code shall be met. 4. Any alterations or modifications to the exterior approved prior to the designation of this site by the City Council shall be considered legal, non -conforming only as to Section 8.05 of the Palm Springs Municipal Code. 12 City Council Resolution January 13, 2016 Case HSPB 94; 1197 Abrigo Road 'The Theodore & Claire Morse Residence" Page 5 of 5 SECTION 6. The City Clerk is directed to submit the Resolution to the County recorder for recordation within 90 days. ADOPTED this 13th day of January, 2016. David H. Ready, Esq., Ph.D. 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, California, do hereby certify that Ordinance No. is a full, true, and correct copy, and was introduced at a regular meeting of the Palm Springs City Council on and adopted at a regular meeting of the City Council held on by the following vote: AYES: NOES: ABSENT: ABSTAIN: James Thompson, City Clerk City of Palm Springs, California Historic Site Preservation Board Minutes June 9,2015 Page5of7 IVUS)C (LaVoie ! Uixon) i-u to initiate a 'ieu-aay stay m Gemoll lo.l ... . ,. PSMC 8.05.170, to allow the board time for necessary studies, hearings and termination whether such site should be designated as an historic site. 3.E. AN LICATION BY NEAL WILSON, OWNER TO DEMOLISH ALL STRUC ES ON A CLASS 3 HISTORIC SITE LOCATED AT 2715 ANZA TRAIL, ZO -1-B (CASE 3.3879). Staff planner Lyon marized the staff report. LINDA REES, project ager for the owner, noted the structure is very deteriorated and the owner s s its demolition. Member Hays argued about incre ntal change over time of loss of individual building to demolition. He noted th he subject building reflects a certain modest type of vernacular building from ertain period and should be given serious consideration to not demolish. M/SIC (Hays ! Ploss) to place a stay of demolitio o allow time to study the merits of the structure for possible historic designs (2-5) (La Voie, Williamson, Dixon, Burkett, and Johns opposed) motion fai Member La Voie noted original structure is sufficiently compromi d so as not to be able to convey historic significance. The board took no further a nand thus staff will process an approval of the demolition request. 4. HUbLIU HLAKIINU6: 4.A. AN APPLICATION BY GARY & JOAN GAND FOR CLASS 1 HISTORIC DESIGNATION OF 1197 ABRIGO ROAD "THE THEODORE & CLAIRE MORSE RESIDENCE", ZONE R-1 C (CASE HSPB#94). Staff Planner LYON summarized the staff report. Chair JOHNS opened the public hearing. JIM HARLAN, representing the owner summarized the application. Member PLOSS asked if the natural rock front wall was always painted white. (Mr. Harlan noted early photos did show the wall painted white). ROBERT MOON, neighbor to the subject site spoke in favor of the proposed designation. Chair JOHNS closed the public hearing. 14 Hlslolic Site Preservation Board Minutes June 9, 2015 Page 6 off Member LA VOIE noted doors are fully pocketed, stone walls full height, no dropped header are all factors that argue that the construction typology is unique. MISIC (Ploss I La Voie) (7-0) to adopt Resolution No. HSPB 94, 'A RESOLUTION OF THE HISTORIC SITE PRESERVATION BOARD OF THE CITY OF PALM SPRINGS, CALIFORNIA RECOMMENDING THAT THE CITY COUNCIL DESIGNATE 1197 ABRIGO ROAD, "THE THEODORE & CLAIRE MORSE RESIDENCE", CLASS 1 HISTORIC SITE #94, SUBJECT TO CONDITIONS." 4. rwra o�. ruv rtrrui, �?iSA'�7ii���rl Li4� J11Ar bUr: I 1-u.r� REQUESTING CLASS 1 HISTORIC DESIGNATION FOR "THE VILLAGE ANOR" (A.K.A. "ORBIT IN") LOCATED AT 562 WEST ARENAS ROAD, IN R-2(CASE HSPB#95) (KL) LYON summarized the staff report. Chair JOPV(IS opened the public hearing. JADE THO NELSON, representing the owner spoke in support of the nomination. Member PLOSS s ke in support of the nomination but objected to the integration of the re tly added security gate. (Mr. NELSON explained the security requiremeht tha ecessitated the addition of the gate.) Member LA VOIE notes the r erence to Mr. Burns as "architectural designer" in the applicant's historic resourcekreport may not be appropriate given that Mr. Burns was not licensed architect. (MISIC) (La Voie I Floss) (7-0) toNQdopt Resolution No. HSPB 95, "A RESOLUTION OF THE HISTORIC SlllkPRESERVATION BOARD OF THE CITY OF PALM SPRINGS, CALIFORNIA RkCOMMENDING THAT THE CITY COUNCIL DESIGNATE 562 WEST ARENAS OAD, "THE VILLAGE MANOR" CLASS 1 HISTORIC SITE#95. SUBJECT TO CO ITIONS." 5. DISCUSSIONS: S.A. 2015/16 ANNUAL WORK PLAN Staff Planner LYON summarized the purpose and outline for the Plan. Member PLOSo suggested a suocul1111 MLL - « 6"n���P=r vor� 5116 Work R is Q pPLM SA O Pi u w IFOVt CITY OF PALM SPRINGS Department of Planning Services Office Use Only Date: 2 / 3 I t5 Case No. n -1_/� �1� HSPB No' %��j�/ Planner: C (f— HISTORIC SITE DESIGNATION APPLICATION TO THE APPL)CANT:, Your cooperation in completing this application and supplying the information requested will expedite City review of your application. Application submitted will not be considered until all submittal requirements are met. Staff may require additional information depending upon the specific project. Please submit this completed application and any subsequent material to the Department of Planning Services. This form is to be used to nominate individual properties for Class 1 or 2 historic designations, or to nominate the formation of historic districts. Applicants are encouraged to review two bulletins from the US Department of Interior for additional information: "How to Complete the National Register of Historic Places Registration Form" (National Register Bulletin 16A / http://www.nps.gov/history/nr/publications/bulletins/nrbl6a/); and • "How to Apply the National Register Criteria for Evaluation" (National Register Bulletin 15; hftp://www.nps.gov/history/nr/publications/builetins/nrbl5/). Complete each item by marking "x" in the appropriate box or by entering the information requested. It any item does not apply to the property being documented, enter "N/A" for "not applicable." For functions, architectural classification, materials, and areas of significance, enter only categories and subcategories from the instructions in the Bulletins. 1. Property Information Historic name: Theodore & Claire Morse Residence Other names: Not applicable Address: 1197 Abrigo Road, Palm Springs, CA 92262 Assessor Parcel Number: 505092007-2 Owner's Name: Gary & Joan Gand Owner's Address: 1197 Abrigo Road City: Palm Springs State: CA Zip: 92262 Telephone: (847) 370-4263 Fax number: Not applicable E-mail address: ggand@gand.com HSPB 0303.15 MAR 0 3 2015 P1,ANNINUA&:HVICES DEPARTMENT X13 2. Classifications Ownership of Property. Fill as many boxes as apply. ■ Private ❑ Public - Local ❑ Public - State ❑ Public - Federal Category of Property. Fill only one box. ■ Building (Note can include site) ❑ District ❑ Site (Exclusive of Structures) ❑ Structure ❑ Object Number of Resources within Property. TOTAL must include at least One (1) in Contributing Column. Contributing Non-contributing 1 Buildings Sites Structures Obiects 1 Total If the building or site is part of a larger group of properties, enter the name of the multiple -property group; otherwise enter "N/A "N/A" 3. Use or Function Historic Use or Function: Private residence Current Use or Function: Private residence 4. Description Architect: Hal Levitt (original structure designed by Palmer & Krisel) Construction Date and Source: 1960, modified 1961 (per city permit records) Architectural Classification: International Style - Desert Regional Variation Construction Materials: Foundation: Concrete slab on grade Roof: Composition Walls: Frame wood construction covered Other: N/A with stucco, native stone and concrete block Building Description: Attach a description of the Budding/Site/District, including �all character defining features, on one or more additional sheets. MAR 0 3 Z015 gi p-0111WhHUICES DEPARTMENT 17 HSPB 0303.15 7 5. Criteria (Fill all boxes that apply for the criteria qualifying the property for listing.) Events ■ (1) Fill this box if the property is associated with events that have made a significant contribution to the broad patterns of our history. Persons ❑ (2) Fill this box if the property is associated with the lives of persons significant in our past. Architecture ■ (3) Fill this box if the property reflects or exemplifies a particular period of national, State or local history, or ■ (4) Fill this box if the property a mbodies the distinctive characteristics of a type, period, or method of construction, or ■ (5) Fill this box if the property represents the work of a master, or possesses high artistic values, or ❑ (6) Fill this box if the property represents a significant and distinguishable entity whose components lack individual distinction. Archeology ❑ (7) Fill this box if the property has yielded, or is likely to yield information important in prehistory or history. Other Criteria Considerations (Check all the boxes that apply.) ❑ the property is owned by a religious institution or used for religious purposes ❑ the property has been removed from its original location. ❑ the property is a birthplace ❑ the property is a grave or cemetery. ❑ the property is a reconstructed building, object, or structure �' a ❑ the property is commemorative rA 4 3 2015 ❑ the property is less than 50 years of age or has achieved significance withir< h&#Wi kRVICE,S years `)EPAMMENT WI HSPB 030315 e Theodore & Claire Morse Residence 1197 Abrigo Road Palm Springs, CA 92262 fur" Prepared by Ron & Barbara Marshall forthe Palm Springs Preservation Foundation Acknowledgements The authors would like to thank the following individuals for their research and/or editing assistance: James Harlan Steven Price Ron Duby Cover photograph: Courtesy Dan Chavkin eU HSPB 03.03.15 Theodore & Claire Morse Residence CLASS 1 HISTORIC SITE NOMINATION TABLE of CONTENTS INTRODUCTION: PAGE 3 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY: PAGE 4 CLASS 1 HISTORIC SITE DESIGNATION APPLICATION FORM: PAGE 5 STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE: PAGE 9 BACKGROUND/HISTORIC CONTEXT: PAGE 23 EVALUATION for CLASS 1 SITE DESIGNATION: PAGE 23 INTEGRITY ANALYSIS: 25 APPENDICES I Owner's Letter of Support II Grant Deed (includes Legal Description) III Assessor's Map IV William Krisel, AIA Biography V Additional Photographic Documentation VI Photographs of Selected Architectural Details VII Additional Historical Photographs VIII Empress and Venetian Pattern Concrete Screen Block 21 HSPB 03.03 15 2 INTRODUCTION The Palm Springs Preservation Foundation (PSPF) is a non-profit organization whose mission is "to educate and promote public awareness of the importance of preserving the historical resources and architecture of the city of Palm Springs and the Coachella Valley area." On December 5, 2014 the PSPF board of directors, in consultation with the owners of the Theodore & Claire Morse Residence, assigned the task of writing the residence's Class 1 Historic Site nomination to board member Ron Marshall. 22 HSPB 03.03.15 3 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY SIGNIFICANCE: The Theodore & Claire Morse Residence (hereinafter referred to as the "Morse Residence') was designed by the architectural firm of Palmer & Krisel and erected by the Alexander Construction Company in 1960. In 1961, the Morses commissioned architect Harold "Hal" Levitt to design a major addition and alteration of the residence. As an important and largely intact example of a modern structure, the private residence exhibits numerous stylistic markers that place it within the historic context of Palm Springs' modern period. DESIGNATION CRITERIA: The Morse Residence has not previously been evaluated for Class 1 Historic Site eligibility. However, the residence has been prominently featured in four Palm Springs Life magazine articles from September 1970, April 2004, February 2006 and February 2015. A brief summary of the evaluation contained in this nomination is as follows: 8.05.020 (a) aaragraoh 1 - Events: This criterion recognizes properties associated with events or patterns of events or historic trends. In this nomination, the applicable "pattern of events" is the gradual rise of Palm Springs' prominence in midcentury architectural excellence. The Morse Residence is an outstanding example of residential design and the construction of buildings within the context of midcentury desert modernism. The nominated private residence is associated with this pattern of events for its ability to exemplify the modem period of the national, state and local history. The Morse Residence is associated with this pattern of events, and is associated as well with Criterion 3 for its ability to exemplify a particular period of the national, state or local history. Therefore. the residence qualifies for listina as a Class 1 Historic Site under Criterion 1. 8.05.020 (a) paragraphs 3. 4 & 5 - Design/Construction: The Morse Residence is eligible under the theme of Modern architecture because it possesses numerous distinctive characteristics that make up the modernist style, including overall horizontality, a combination flat and low-pitched roof, inexpensive mass-produced materials like concrete block, man-made and natural materials suitable to the harsh desert environment (steel, aluminum, glass, concrete stone, etc.) and an architectural design that strives to blur the line between the indoors and outdoors. Additionally, the work of architect Hal Levitt, and to a less significant degree the firm of Palmer & Krisel, must be catalogued as the work of a "Master" architect because of their records of architectural excellence. Therefore, for its distinctive characteristics. as the work of a Master. and for its hiah artistic values, the residence qualifies as a Class 1 Historic Site under Criteria 3. 4 & 5. SUMMARY: This evaluation finds the Morse Residence eligible for listing as a Palm Springs Historic Site under 8.05.020 (a) paragraphs 1, 3, 4 & 5 of the local ordinance's seven criteria. Additionally, the Morse Residence retains a moderate degree of architectural integrity. 23 HSPB 03,03.15 4 CITY OF PALM SPRINGS Department of Planning Services 3200 East Tahquitz Canyon Way, Palm Springs, CA 92262 Telephone: 760-323-8245 Fax. 760-322-8360 HISTORIC SITE DESIGNATION The City of Palm Springs allows for the local designation of historic buildings, sites or districts within the City (Section 8.05 of the Palm Springs Municipal Code.) This application packet is to be completed in order to request a historic designation. For additional information, please contact the Department of Planning Services at 760-323- 8245 or planning@palmspringsca.gov. APPLICATION The completed application and required materials may be submitted to the Department of Planning Services. The submittal will be given a cursory check and will be accepted for filing only if the basic requirements have been met. A case planner will be assigned to the project and will be responsible for a detailed review of the application and all exhibits to ensure that all required information is adequate and accurate. Incomplete applications due to missing or inadequate information will not be accepted for filing. Applicants may be asked to attend scheduled meetings pertaining to their project. These will include the Historic Site Preservation Board (HSPB) and the City Council. "ISTORIC SITE PRESERVATION BOARD (HSPBI Once the application has been determined to be complete, the HSPB will review the application to determine whether the site meets the minimum qualifications for designation pursuant to Chapter 8.05 of the Palm Springs Municipal Code. If such determination is made, a public hearing will be scheduled for a future meeting. A public hearing will be held by the HSPB to receive testimony from all interested persons concerning the Historic Site Designation. The public hearing may be continued from time to time, and upon complete consideration, the HSPB will make a recommendation to the City Council. Notice will be provided as indicated below. CITY COUNCIL After receiving the recommendation of the Historic Site Preservation Board, a public hearing will be held by the City Council to receive testimony from all interested persons concerning the requested Historic Site Designation. The public hearing may be continued from time to time, and upon complete consideration, the City Council will then conditionally approve, deny, or approve the application as submitted. The City Council's decision on the application is final. NOTIFICATION Prior to consideration of the application by the HSPB and the City Council, a notice of public hearing for a Historic Site Designation request will be mailed to all property owners within 400 feet of the subject property a minimum of ten (10) days prior to the hearing dates. HSPB Z d 0303.15 5 FQALMs O , pqj 0 Date: uy N I I Case No. cgIiFoa��P I HSPB No. Planner: CITY OF PALM SPRINGS Department of Planning Services HISTORIC SITE DESIGNATION APPLICATION Office Use Only TO THE APPLICANT: Your cooperation in completing this application and supplying the information requested will expedite City review of your application. Application submitted will not be considered until all submittal requirements are met. Staff may require additional information depending upon the specific project. Please submit this completed application and any subsequent material to the Department of Planning Services. This form is to be used to nominate individual properties for Class 1 or 2 historic designations, or to nominate the formation of historic districts. Applicants are encouraged to review two bulletins from the US Department of Interior for additional information: "How to Complete the National Register of Historic Places Registration Form" (National Register Bulletin 16A / http://www.nps.gov/history/nr/publications/bulletins/nrbl6a/); and • "How to Apply the National Register Criteria for Evaluation" (National Register Bulletin 15; http://www.nps.gov/history/nrlpublications/bulletins/nrbl5/). Complete each item by marking "x" in the appropriate box or by entering the information requested. If any item does not apply to the property being documented, enter "N/A" for "not applicable." For functions, architectural classification, materials, and areas of significance, enter only categories and subcategories from the instructions in the Bulletins. 1. Property Information Historic name: Theodore & Claire Morse Residence Other names: Not applicable Address: 1197 Abrigo Road, Palm Springs, CA 92262 Assessor Parcel Number: 505092007-2 Owner's Name: Gary & Joan Gand Owner's Address: 1197 Abrigo Road City: Palm Springs State: CA Zip: 92262 Telephone: (847) 370-4263 Fax number: Not applicable E-mail address: ggand@gand.com �s RSPB 03.03.15 2. Classifications Ownership of Property. Fill as many boxes as apply. ■ Private ❑ Public- Local ❑ Public - State ❑ Public - Federal Category of Property. Fill only one box. ■ Building (Note can include site) ❑ District ❑ Site (Exclusive of Structures) ❑ Structure ❑ Object Number of Resources within Property. TOTAL must include at least One (1) in Contributing Column. Contributing Non-contributing 1 1 Buildings Sites Structures nttjects Total If the building or site is part of a larger group of properties, enter the name of the multiple -property group; otherwise enter "N/A". "N/A" 3. Use or Function Historic Use or Function: Private residence Current Use or Function: Private residence 4. Description Architect: Hal Levitt (original structure designed by Palmer & Krisel) Construction Date and Source: 1960, modified 1961 (per city permit records) Architectural Classification: International Style - Desert Regional Variation Construction Materials: Foundation: Concrete slab on grade Roof: Composition Walls: Frame wood construction covered Other: N/A with stucco, native stone and concrete block Building Description: Attach a description of the Building/Site/District, including all character defining features, on one or more additional sheets. 26 HSPB 0303 15 7 5. Criteria (Fill all boxes that apply for the criteria qualifying the property for listing.) Events ■ (1) Fill this box if the property is associated with events that have made a significant contribution to the broad patterns of our history. Persons ❑ (2) Fill this box if the property is associated with the lives of persons significant in our past. Architecture ■ (3) Fill this box if the property reflects or exemplifies a particular period of national, State or local history, or ■ (4) Fill this box if the property a mbodies the distinctive characteristics of a type, period, or method of construction, or ■ (5) Fill this box if the property represents the work of a master, or possesses high artistic values, or ❑ (6) Fill this box if the property represents a significant and distinguishable entity whose components lack individual distinction. Archeology ❑ (7) Fill this box if the property has yielded, or is likely to yield information important in prehistory or history. Other Criteria Considerations (Check all the boxes that apply.) ❑ the property is owned by a religious institution or used for religious purposes ❑ the property has been removed from its original location. ❑ the property is a birthplace ❑ the property is a grave or cemetery. ❑ the property is a reconstructed building, object, or structure ❑ the property is commemorative ❑ the property is less than 50 years of age or has achieved significance within the past 50 years 27 HSPB 03.03.15 B 6. Statement of Significance Summary The Morse Residence, first owned by Theodore and Claire Morse, was designed by the architectural firm of Palmer & Krisel and erected by the Alexander Construction Company in the Vista Las Palmas No. 2 tract in 1960. In 1961 the Morses commissioned architect Hal Levitt to design a major expansion of the residence completed by Arc Construction Company. First Owners, Theodore and Claire Morse Local Records. Theodore Morse (1906-1969) and Claire Morse (given name Burman) (1910-1991) apparently did not participate in the local social scene as evidenced by no mention of them in the social columns of Palm Springs Villager magazines during the 1960s. Additionally, they do not appear in Palm Springs Personages (the annually - published hardbound local social registry) for the years 1965, 1966, 1968, 1969, 1970, 1971 and 1972. The entry for the couple in the 1961 Palm Springs telephone directory reads as follows: "Morse Theo (Claire) h1197 Abrigo rd". The entry in the 1962 Palm Springs telephone directory is identical but adds the phone number "FA 4-4836". Other Records. Theodore Morse is identified in the August 24, 1955 edition of the Chicago Tribune newspaper as an "apparel manufacturer" and in a January 20, 1967 U.S. Court of Claims document as the "part owner and executive in the business of manufacturing women's lingerie." Theodore's wife Claire was a more colorful figure. During her lifetime she married well three times. Her first marriage in 1933 was to Chicagoan Nathan Borin who was reported to be a "wealthy art products dealer." The marriage ran into trouble after about a year and then dragged on in divorce court for more than a decade. The nasty divorce battle garnered national newspaper coverage. The media, which referred to Claire as a "Chicago beauty contest winner," breathlessly reported the salacious details of the divorce. Each accused the other of adultery though neither charge was found to have merit. As part of the divorce battle Nathan filed an "alienation of affections" suit against famous Hollywood producer E. M. Asher. Claire was remarried to Chicago banker Harry G. Buchman but was soon widowed upon his death in 1951. Unfortunately, Claire had to return to court again in a lawsuit over the disposition of her second husband's estate. In the legal action, the Buchman family opposed any payment from the estate to Claire on the grounds that she gave up all rights to inheritance under a settlement made in contemplation of a divorce from Harry. Claire then married Theodore Morse. Theodore and Claire found themselves in court in 1959, 1967 and 1974 over income tax matters. 28 HSPB 03.03.15 9 Battling Borins Due For Fight to Finish Claire Morse (then Claire Borin) and her first husband Nathan Borin were nicknamed the "Battling Borins" in the press due to their contentious divorce (from the November 11, 1937 edition of the Milwaukee Sentinel) Today, the Claire and Theodore Morse Foundation (a philanthropic foundation with over $3M in reported assets) bears their names. The foundation is a California corporation created on September 26, 1995 (File Number C1949977) currently located at 9200 Sunset Boulevard, Suite 525, Los Angeles, California. The philanthropic foundation was contacted on two occasions by letter and certified letter, and multiple times by phone. Despite these numerous inquiries, the representatives of the foundation were unable to provide any substantive information on the Morses. In addition to the property in Palm Springs an unsubstantiated source indicates that the Morses may have also owned a unit in Sierra Towers in West Hollywood. Additional research on the Morses was deemed of limited value as Criterion 2 of the local code (which recognizes properties "associated with the lives of persons who made meaningful contribution to national, state or local history") is not asserted in this nomination. HSPB 03.03.16 25 10 Additional Owners Primary records show the chain of ownership for 1197 Abrigo Road as follows: Date October 20, 1960 December [illegible], 1975 May 18, 1987 October 11, 1999 June 6, 2002 September 7, 2004 July 7, 2006 March 9, 2011 October 23, 2013 Owner(s) Theodore & Claire Morse' David E. Wallace Maurice & Shirley Engleman Mark B. Levine & John C. Williams John C. Williams' Jim Richardson & Mark Anton Edward F. Limato' John G. Sacchi & Stephen J. Simoni Gary & Joan Gand Notes: ' The Joint Tenancy Grant Deed was signed by Robert Alexander as Authorized Agent for Las Palmas Estates, a Co -Partnership. ' Sold by Trustee due to Williams' death on July 30, 2004. 3 Sold by Trustee due to Limato's death on July 3, 2010. The most prominent owner in the chain of ownership is "Edward F. Limato" who is most probably Edward Frank "Ed" Limato (1936-2010), a famous American talent agent and a senior vice president at the William Morris Agency. However, because of the other more substantive criteria for designation and Limato's relatively late and brief ownership of the property, Criterion 2 of the local code (which recognizes properties "associated with the lives of persons who made meaningful contribution to national, state or local history") is not asserted in this nomination The Architect Architect Harold ("Hal") Levitt (1921-2003) was a well-known California architect who gained fame largely as a result of his Hollywood commissions. The most succinct summary of Levitt's career can be found in his obituary which appeared in the April 29, 2003 edition of the Los Angeles Times newspaper: Harold Levitt. [was] a veteran architect who designed homes for the rich and famous, Including Walter Mirisch, Steven Spielberg and Lew Wasserman.... Levitt, who retired to Reno ... [in 2001]... died of natural causes... at his vacation home in Las Vegas .... The Wassermans' modern glass -walled mansion may be among the best known of Levitt's creations because of its use over many years as a venue for fund-raising events for politicians and organizations such as the Los Angeles Music Center's Center Theatre Group.... But over Levitt's half -century career, the architect also created homes for such show -business personalities as Olivia Newton John, Ross Hunter, Quincy Jones, Burt Lan- caster, Dean Martin, Debbie Reynolds, Lionel Ritchie, Kenny Rogers and Hal Wallis. [Levitt]... also designed such commercial projects as the Riviera Hotel in Las Vegas and the Academy of Motion Pictures, Arts & Sciences in Los Angeles ..Born Harold Warren Levitt in San Francisco on July 26, 1921, Levitt ... eamed a bachelor's degree in graphic arts at Stanford University and an architecture degree at the University of Southern California. He based his firm, Levitt, LeDuc & Farwell, in Beverly Hills . Levitt is survived by his wife of 58 years, Jane Spalding Levitt; a son, Lansford, of Reno; [and] a brother, William C. Putney of Monarch Beach... 30 HSPB 03.03.15 Hal Levitt started his practice in the early 1950s after working for the famous residential designer Roland Coate and later Burton Schutt. According to architectural historian Steven Price (author of the soon to be published book Trousdale Over the Top), in recent years aficionados of modernist design have brought Hal Levitt back into the limelight. Celebrities such as Jennifer Aniston, MaryKate & Ashley Olsen, Ellen De Generes & Portia DeRossi, and Darren Starr have each famously acquired and updated "Levitts" (later selling them for soaring prices). While many of Levitt's commissions have been razed or significantly altered, the best of his intact residences are centered in Beverly Hills, specifically in the Trousdale Estates enclave. u. AmES4 "GILL ...... .. ... Levitt's Riviera Hotel Project in Las Vegas, Nevada According to Levitt+Moss Architects (which was established in 2001 by Kyle Moss, AIA upon the closure of Harold W. Levitt and Associates, where Kyle worked alongside Levitt), "Mr. Levitt's work reflects the best modern design philosophies of mid-century Los Angeles. The intermixing and re -interpenetration of the indoors and outdoors was used extensively in his projects. Large glass surfaces, interior courtyards, and surprising entry sequences exist throughout his residential work and blur the boundary between the interior and exterior." Levitt "Archives" The authors are deeply indebted to architectural historian Steven Price who generously shared various professional papers from architect Hal Levitt's estate. In a January 17, HSPB 31 03.03.15 12 2015 email to the authors, Price provides the following information about the disposition of Levitt's professional papers: When Harold Levitt began to plan his retirement, closing his practice to move to Reno, Nevada (to be closer to son Lans), he attempted to contact each current owner of the properties he'd designed, to see if they wanted the plans he still had on file. In about 70% of the cases, the offer was accepted, and plans, blueprints and drawings ship- ped out. In approximately 20% of the cases, they were apparently discarded (a "T" notation in the workbooks signifies "Tossed" to the archive directors, but could have meant something far more elegant). Roughly 10% still remain in the Archive's pos- session --the foundation of the collection that the Directors of the Harold W. Levitt Professional Archive are endeavoring to add to, with the help of owners and his- torians, to the point where a critical mass [is) acquired. At that time, the core collection will be transferred to the Architecture & Design Collec- tion at the University of California, Santa Barbara Art Museum, where famed architect, scholar, writer and professor David Gebhard started one of the world's premier archi- tectural resource depositories in 1963. The Builders Little is known about Arc Construction Company aside from the fact that they do not appear in local Palm Springs phone books of the era. It is probable that they were outside (e.g., possibly Los Angeles or San Diego) builders brought in to construct the Levitt addition to, and alteration of, the original Alexander -constructed Morse Residence. Interestingly, a surprising number of California companies have used (or still use) the name Arc Construction. Further research on this topic was deemed of marginal importance to this nomination. Local Architectural and Historical Context The Morse Residence should be viewed as building boom which started in earnest with in 1955 and effectively ended with their November 14, 1965. In The Alexanders: Harlan asserts: part of Palm Springs' modernist tract -house the arrival of George and Robert Alexander tragic deaths in an airplane accident on A Desert Legacy, author and architect Jim Key to the Alexanders' success was their ability to rely on good architects like Palmer & Krisel and Donald Wexler, whose designs were highlights of many Alexander develop- ments in Palm Springs As developers the Alexanders wanted a product that sold, and they knew that open, airy plans and clean, Modern lines would sell well with their custo- mers. They were also just as interested in the ability of Bill Krisel and Don Wexler to apply intrinsically Modern concepts such as prefabrication, modularization, and mass production to the task of lowering costs and speeding production. The pragmatism of Modern production did not conflict with the idealism of good design in saving money and increasing profits. Site Description Location. The Morse Residence is located on a prominent corner lot in the Vista Las Palmas No. 2 tract. The residence is bounded by Via Vadera to the north, Abrigo Road to the east and two residential parcels to the south and west. The topography of the lot 32 HSPB 03 03 15 13 is relatively flat. A full legal description of the property is provided at Appendix II (i.e., "Lot 1, Vista Las Palmas No. 2, as per map recorded in Book 39 page 72 of Maps, records of Riverside County, California"). Aerial view of the Morse Residence (oriented north) showing surrounding private residences. (Google Maps) The Architecture The Morse Residence is a single-family, two -bedroom, two -and -a -half bathroom, 3,711 square foot structure (per assessor) with a combination low -pitch and flat roof. The entry sequence is straightforward beginning with a concrete pathway which terminates in a step-up polished terrazzo concrete pad. The entry door is a subset of a larger element of random -design wood board and batten (this material is used extensively in the interior of the house). Opening the entry door leads to a dramatic interior terrazzo hallway which is 8'8" wide and an impressive 43 feet long on the south side. The residence's street -side facade consists of a painted stone wall punctuated (starting from the south) with two 7-foot wide by 8-foot tall garage door openings then the entryway door. Continuing northward, the stone facade is "enhanced" with a grid of concrete screen block which is intended to create visual interest (and some functionality by shading and concealing the front windows). The striking screen block wall successfully breaks the monotony of the long stone facade. The screen block element is composed of 156 individual units of 12"x12"x4" concrete screen block and is 12 units high by 13 units wide. This wall of screen block is anchored and framed vertically with two stone piers which are 14" wide and 28" deep and extend upwards to the roofline. When installed in 1961, this screen block design was commonly referred to as the 33 HSPB 03.03.15 14 "Empress" pattern. A detailed history of this particular screen block pattern and the "Venetian" screen block pattern is contained in Appendix VIII of this nomination. The Morse Residence's street -side (east) fayade Southward view of spa (a 1976 addition), pool area and view through sliding glass doors to south patio area. This photograph shows the transparency and seamless indoor -outdoor effect achieved by the Levitt design. (Photograph courtesy Dan Chavkin) HSPB 03,03.15 34 15 ("Venetian" block was used in the construction of the utility room attached to the southeast portion of the residence). For additional commentary about the painted stonework found throughout the interior and exterior of the Morse Residence see "Section 7. Integrity Analysis." One of the most notable architectural features of the residence is the projecting stone "V" wall on the west side (rear) of the house. This dramatic architectural feature, which is both interesting and aesthetically pleasing, is entirely functional as the structure serves to house two of the three sets of huge aluminum -framed sliding glass "pocket" door systems. These two sliding glass door systems open adjacent to the large southwest patio (consisting of two framed glass doors each 10-feet high by 9'4" long) and the south edge of the pool (consisting of two framed glass doors each 7-foot by 7'10" long). The third pocket door system is adjacent to the east side of the pool and tucks into the stone wall to the north (it also consists of two framed glass doors each 7- foot by 7'10" long). When opened, either singly or in combination, these huge glass doors create a stunningly airy and floating effect which is both unexpected and delightful. This resulting seamless indoor -outdoor transition is one which many modernist architects attempted but few achieved. This particular aspect of the Levitt design is nothing short of masterful. Levitt adds much drama by "sinking" the living room. This sunken portion includes the bar area (further sunken) adjacent to the pool. Hence the surface of the adjacent pool is effectively at "mid -body" (i.e., about 3-feet high). This unexpected feature (which seems vaguely dangerous ---as if the wall might crack at any moment and flood the house with pool water!) is yet another masterfully -executed Levitt feature that reveals both the architect's competence and confidence. While the combination linear and sinuous shape of the pool might be called "high - design" perhaps the most striking feature of the pool is the round concrete plinth in the pool upon which rests a functional stone -clad roof support column. Surrounding the property are walls made of "Shadowal" (trade name) concrete block. In summary, the Morse Residence exhibits many features which place it solidly within the modernist canon: overall horizontality, a combination flat and low-pitched roof, inexpensive mass-produced materials like concrete block (e.g., Empress and Venetian pattern concrete screen block, Shadowal concrete block and 8"x8" concrete block), man-made and natural materials suitable to the harsh desert environment (steel, aluminum, glass, concrete and stone), deep eaves to moderate solar radiation and an architectural design that strives to blur the line between the indoors and outdoors. The Levitt Connection The greatest research challenge of this nomination was unearthing a linkage between architect Hal Levitt and the Morse Residence. As discussed later in this nomination, Palm Springs Life (PSL) magazine made numerous references to Levitt in articles which featured the house. However, the PSL articles were treated as sometimes unreliable secondary sources. HSPB 35 0303.15 16 Fortunately, architectural historian Steven Price was discovered to be in possession of architect Levitt's professional "Job Logs." These primary sources proved to be invaluable and the relevant portions are excerpted. In summary, the job logs reveal that Levitt's project number "6108" (the job numbers are prefixed with the two -digit year) corresponds with city of Palm Springs Building Permit #B3769 (issued on September 26, 1961) which authorized a major 2,500 square foot addition to the house. Levitt job logs indicate that the architect was involved with two projects at 1197 Abrigo Road in 1965. A "Lanai Remodel" (job number 6508) and a "Maid and carport addition" (job number 6532). Finally, Levitt job logs show that an "Alteration to fireplace" (job number 8017) and another "addition" gob number 8020) was made to 1197 Abrigo Road in 1980 by which time David E. Wallace owned the house. There is no further information available regarding the extent of this job and the project does not correspond to any extant city permits. Levitt's Job Log for years 1953 through 1963 (Courtesy Steven Price) Cover of Levitt's 1953-1963 Job Log (Courtesy Steven Price) 36 HSPB 03.03.15 17 This entry shows the disposition of plans for Job 6108 to various parties (including the owner and architect). Note the reference to a 2261.25 square foot "Addition" and a 460.0 square foot "Alteration" which corresponds roughly to the city building permit #63769 which authorized a 2500 square foot addition. Most importantly, this document ties Levitt directly to the Morses and the 1197 Abrigo address in Palm Springs. (Courtesy Steven Price) HSPB j 03.03,15 1R CURRENT JOBS JOB NO. TB. CLIENT r 1.I 2 i SAMUECs 6102 HORRELL, lovZoTI 6103 3., WILSON 6104 10 EISENBERG � 6105 Flr.*Z FARMERS-DALLAS 6106 26 A MARTIN, VV&Q ` 6107 l$ CROWE 6108 55 MORSE, THEODORE L'1A ZR JONES, ALLAN 6110 $q HALL bill F{ 3 FARMERS -REDWOOD CITY 6112 WOMB HORRELL, DOROTHY J 6113 3o BURG 6114 q SKOURAS 6115 7Jr' HOLT�.J�a1tf� u 6116 44 g RIVIFRA Mn TF i6117 FW*3 FARMERS-TULSA ;. 6118 FW*31 FARMERS -HUNT I NGTON 1111111IMP4Rr 6119 55 MORSE, THOEDORE 6120 33 KAROFF 6121 f�,pyg� 6 JONES, ALLAN s'6122 3310 WILSON `". 6123 34 FlG*i WASSERMAN ;. 6124 FARMERS-SEATTLE l9GI TYPE Restaurant (Jaer'y Lewis) Residence - Hillsborough .Residence al Residence Remodel Office Building TV Room L Alteration Residence Remodel Residence Addition -Palm Springs Residence Residence Office Building Residence - Hillsborough Residence Res l dence Add i ti omDltid's Q..- Residence Las Vegas- L I2Pi# L0* l Foo Office Building Office Building Apartment Remodel -Comstock Bar Alteration r Residence Remodel - Trousdale ,Residence 02 (Redraw) .Residence Add It long goirc o.Vw Office Building A page from Levitt's professional archives which includes a summary of his commissions for the year 1961. In addition to the Morse's job 6108, note the many other high -profile clients. (Courtesy Steven Price) It is important to note that Levitt's architectural drawings for the Morse Residence have not been located (Levitt's notation in his job logs indicates they were in "TB" (probably meaning "tube") 55. Accordingly, much of the information about the 1961 Levitt addition and alteration (and for that matter the 1965 and 1980 Levitt additions and alterations) must be extrapolated from (1) what is known about the original standard Palmer & Krisel floor plan, (2) clues from the limited number of vintage photographs (either on file at the Palm Springs Historical Society or as shown in PSL magazine articles over the years) and, (3) various city building permits (the city records, while extensive, appear to be incomplete). This makes an authoritative analysis of the Morse Residence challenging at best but every effort has been made in this nomination to remain fact -based not conjectural. To that end, architect Jim Harlan provided his professional expertise to capture the floor plan of the house as it exists today, using on -site measurements. It is hoped that this effort will be a boon to any future research on the home. HSPB 03.03.15 38 19 4 N ( Morse Residence floor plan created by architect Jim Harlan which attempts to capture the rather complex and angular floor plan of the house as it exists today (2015). Harlan made numerous on - site measurements. Because there are no extant floor plans of the 1961 Levitt addition and alteration it is hoped that this documentation will prove useful to any future research on the home. 3 `1 HSPB 03.03.15 zu Permit History The permit history for the Morse Residence at 1197 Abrigo Road documents the two seminal events in the history of the residence, i.e., the 1960 construction of the house by the Alexander Construction Company and the major Levitt addition and alteration to the house completed in 1961 by Arc Construction. - Building Permit #B2262 issued on June 9, 1960 to the Alexander Construction Company for a (per permit) 1,500 square foot house and 440 square foot carport (described as "5-room frame and stucco dwelling with carport and comp[osition] roof'). Robert Alexander was listed as the owner. - Building Permit #B2437 issued on August 1, 1960 for a "16x32 swimming pool." - Building Permit #B2895 issued on November 16, 1960 to "remodel/change swimming Pool." - Building Permit #B2900 issued November 16, 1960 to "change partition arrangement in house under construction." - Building Permit #B2966 issued on December 7, 1960 to "construct masonry wall." - Building Permit #B2970 issued on December 9, 1960 for "8' high, 80' long [masonry wall] along property line." - Building Permit #B3769 issued on September 26, 1961 for a 2,500 square foot addition. Work to be performed is described as "add guest [room], steam room, bath and lanai to existing dwelling, remodel bath and comp[osition] roof." The contractor was Arc Construction Company, the property owner was listed as Mr. & Mrs. Theodore Morse. The permit is annotated "lanai setback as approved by council resolution September 25, 1961." - Building Permit #B10452 issued on August 23, 1976 for a "6x4x6 therapy pool adjacent to existing pool." (Note: This "therapy pool" (spa) was installed in an existing terrazzo patio at the northeast edge of the pool.) - Building Permit #(illegible) issued on December 13, 1976 to "remodel bathroom." - Building Permit #B24068 issued on January 4, 1993 for "pool." - Building Permit C10468 issued October 11, 2004 to: "Demo[lish] front garden wall. Repair drywall & plaster as needed throughout house. Remove flatwork at back patio area. Replace door, replace decorative t[ongue] & g[roove] & block, add 2 lav[atories], replace shower, replace 1 w[ater] c[loset], lights & outlets." - Building Permit #C[illegible] issued February 3, 2005 to: "Remodel existing exercise room and bathroom. Frame in fire door from garage to dwelling and relocate to different location. Remove sliders at foyer. Replace rotted beam at garage with same. Add 40 HSPB 03.0315 21 stone veneer to match remainder of house. Close in FAU closet at bathroom and add louvered door opening into garage." - Building Permit #2012-1181 issued May 10, 2012 to "Replace (2) gas package units and (1) down flow complete system. All on roof, same size and location." The Morse Residence in the Media The Morse Residence has received an unusual amount of attention over the years starting in September 1970 when it appeared in a PSL magazine article simply entitled "Luxury." The 1970 PSL article made mention of "architect Hal Leavitt (sic), A.I.A." and described the residence as "a truly unique European contemporary villa." PSL magazine consistently misspelled Levitt's name in later articles in 2004 and 2006. The 1970 PSL article does provide many useful photographic clues about the house and shows that both the garage door (a single bay in 1970, today a two -bay garage) and the front entry way, were modified over the years. Additionally, the article shows that the most striking features of the Levitt addition, namely the sunken seating area, the terrazzo bar, southwest patio area and sliding glass pocket doors have all remained remarkably intact. Interestingly, photographs accompanying the 1970 PSL article show that the stonework has been painted for at least 45 years. The April 2005 PSL article, appropriately entitled "Inside -Out," tells the unverifiable "legend" of the residence, i.e., that the "lady of the house" was unhappy with the "Alexander design" (meaning the Palmer & Krisel design) and "fired the famous developers' (the Alexanders). Permit records, coupled with the well -documented efficiency and rapidity of the Alexander's building methods, seem to dispute this legend. The house (assessed by architect and author Jim Harlan to be a standard Alexander Construction Company -built, Palmer & Krisel-designed "132" plan in the Vista Las Palmas tract) was most likely simply purchased when near completion and only minor customization is indicated from the permit records (specifically Building Permit #B2900 issued November 16, 1960 to "change partition arrangement in house under construction"). Almost a year later, construction of the Levitt addition commenced (see Building Permit #B3769 issued on September 26, 1961). The 2004 PSL article does do a fine job describing the most important aspect of the house: The swim -in home first appeared in the pages of Palm Springs Life in 1970. Touted as a contemporary villa designed for convertible indoor -outdoor living, the home promoted a design feature that now comes standard in most high -end desert homes: pocket doors --- glass walls that actually disappear, creating a seamless transition between indoors and out. That interplay with the natural environ- ment put this design ahead of its time in 1960. The February 2006 issue of PSL returned to the residence with an article entitled "Midcentury Redux" which touts the then owners as having "brought the home back to its midcentury glory." Most recently, the February 2015 issue of PSL features the Morse Residence in an article entitled "In Perfect Harmony." HSPB 03,03.15 41 22 BACKGROUND l HISTORIC CONTEXT The relatively short history of Palm Springs can be organized into three more or less distinct periods that include Prehistory, the Settlement Period, and the Modern Period. It is within the context of the last period that this building will be evaluated. Modern Period (1925-1960s): This period can be considered to have begun with the construction of the area's first "modern" structure, Rudolph Schindler's Paul and Betty Popenoe Cabin in 1922. With this building the area's predominant architectural style, which was based on well -established Mexican and Spanish Colonial motifs, began to change. Incorporation of the town of Palm Springs followed in 1938. During the post - WWII era, Palm Springs' economy prospered through tourism. Hollywood celebrities discovered the desert oasis and patronized its hotels, inns, nightclubs and restaurants; celebrity -seeking tourists soon followed, transforming Palm Springs from a sleepy village into an increasingly cosmopolitan environment that saw the construction of schools, hospitals, an airport and other important public works projects. The commercial core along Palm Canyon Drive (originally Main Street) flourished. In the 1950s the downtown core was expanded by the construction of the cross -axis of Tahquitz-McCallum Way that extended from the center of the original settlement to the airport, spurring new development along the way. Early private residential development also expanded into new sub -divisions composed of midcentury modern second homes in the flat lands surrounding the town's original core. Palm Springs' Hollywood associations certainly imparted an air of sophistication to the city. By 1964, the city had built a reputation for cutting edge architecture with architectural practitioners like John Porter Clark, Albert Frey, E. Stewart Williams, William F. Cody and Donald Wexler. EVALUATION: Criterion 1: Significant Event. To qualify for listing under this criterion, a property must be associated with one or more events important in the defined historic context. Criterion 1 recognizes properties associated with events or patterns of events or historic trends, such as the gradual rise of the city's prominence in architectural excellence in midcentury modern architecture that is an important pattern of events within this associated context. The Morse Residence is an outstanding example of residential design and construction of buildings within the context of midcentury desert Modernism. The Morse Residence is associated with this pattern of events for its ability to exemplify the modern period of the national, state and local history. The residence aualifies for listina as a Class i Historic Site on the local reaistry under Criterion 1. Criterion 2: Significant Persons. Criterion 2 recognizes properties associated with the lives of persons who made meaningful contribution to national, state or local history. The Morse Residence is not associated with individuals of national importance. Hence, the residence does not aualifv for listina as a Class 1 Historic Site on the local reaistry under Criterion 2. 42 HSPB 03.03 15 23 ARCHITECTURE (Criteria 3 — 6) Criterion 3: (That reflects or exemplifies a particular ep riod of the national, state or local history). The Morse Residence was designed by the architectural firm of Palmer & Krisel and erected by the Alexander Construction Company in 1960. In 1961, the Morses commissioned architect Hal Levitt to design a major modification and expansion of the residence. The stylistic markers of the residence place it directly in the historic context of Palm Springs' Modern Period. The private residence represents a prime and largely intact example of the significant modernist architecture for which Palm Springs is widely known. As such the residence may be viewed as an important component of the historic trends that have come to define Palm Springs' image as a center of important midcentury architecture, i.e., an historic trend that exemplifies a particular period of the national, state or local history. The residence aualifres for listino as a Class 9 Historic Site on the local reaistry under Criterion 3. Criterion 4: (That embodies the distinctive characteristics of a type, period or method of construction; or) Type, Period, and Method of Construction: "Type, period, or method of construction" refers to the way certain properties are related to one another by cultural tradition or function, by dates of construction or style, or by choice or availability of materials and technology. To be eligible under this Criterion, a property must clearly illustrate, through "distinctive characteristics" a pattern of features common to a particular class of resources. "Distinctive characteristics" are the physical features or traits that commonly recur in individual types, periods, or methods of construction. To be eligible, a property must clearly contain enough of those characteristics to be considered a true representative of a particular type, period, or method of construction. Characteristics can be expressed in terms such as form, proportion, structure, plan, style, or materials. The Morse Residence is eligible under the theme of Modern architecture because it possesses distinctive characteristics that make up the many qualities of the style, such as overall horizontality, a combination flat and low-pitched roof, inexpensive mass- produced materials like concrete block, man-made and natural materials suitable to the harsh desert environment (steel, aluminum, glass, stone, etc.) and an architectural design that strives to blur the line between the indoors and outdoors. As such, the residence is eligible under this criterion because it represents an important example of building practices in Palm Springs at midcentury. The residence aualifies forlistino as a Class 1 Historic Site on the local reaistry under Criterion 4. Criterion 5: (That (a): represents the work of a master builder, designer, artist, or architect whose individual genius influenced his age; or (b): that possesses high artistic value). 5a: Work of a Master: A master is a figure of generally recognized greatness in a field, a known craftsman of consummate skill. The property must express a particular phase in the development of the master's career, an aspect of his work, or a particular idea or theme in his craft. A property is not eligible as the work of a master, however, simply because it was designed by a prominent architect. For example, not every building 43 HSPB 03 03 15 24 designed by Frank Lloyd Wright is eligible under this portion of Criterion 5, although it might meet other Criteria. Both the architectural firm of Palmer & Krisel and architect Hal Levitt qualify individually as "master architects" (with the firm of Palmer & Krisel having been identified as such in previous city designations). 5b: Properties possessing high artistic values: High artistic values may be expressed in many ways, including areas as diverse as community design or planning, engineering, and sculpture. As an example of the maturing modernist movement, the Morse Residence certainly articulates the best of residential "lifestyle" modernism to a level of excellence and confidence that, in total, they could easily be considered an aesthetic ideal. As the work of a Master. and for its hiah artistic values, the residence qualifies for listina as a Class 1 Historic Site on the local reoistry under Criterion 5. Criterion 6: (That represents a significant and distinguishable entity whose components may lack individual distinction). This Criterion was created to address the resources contained within a potential historic district and as such it does not apply to this nomination. Hence, the residence does not aualifv under Criterion 6. ARCHEOLOGY Criterion 7: (That has yielded or may be likely to yield information important to the national, state or local history or prehistory.) The Morse Residence is not likely to yield information important to the national, state or local history or prehistory. Hence, the residence does not aualifv under Criterion 7. 7. Integrity Analysis (using U.S. Secretary of Interior Standards) INTEGRITY Integrity is the ability of a property to convey its significance. To be listed in the local registry, a property must not only be shown to be significant under the criteria, but it also must have integrity. The evaluation of integrity is sometimes a subjective judgment, but it must always be grounded in an understanding of a property's physical features and how they relate to its significance. Historic properties either retain integrity (that is, convey their significance) or they do not. The definition of integrity includes seven aspects or qualities. To retain historic integrity a property will always possess several, and usually most, of the aspects. The retention of specific aspects of integrity is paramount for a property to convey its significance. Determining which of these aspects are most important to a particular property requires knowing why, where, and when the property is significant. The following sections define the seven aspects and explain how they combine to produce integrity. Although the 1960 Morse Residence was originally designed as a Palmer & Krisel tract house, the 1961 Hal Levitt -designed addition -alteration (which is now more than 50 years old) profoundly altered the home. Therefore the seven integrity aspects are applied to the residence as constituted after the 1961 Levitt addition -alteration. 44 RSPB 03.03.15 25 LOCATION Location is the place where an historic property was constructed or the place where an historic event occurred. The relationship between the property and its location is often important to understanding why the property was created or why something happened. The actual location of a historic property, complemented by its setting, is particularly important in recapturing the sense of historic events and persons. Except in rare cases, the relationship between a property and its historic associations is destroyed if the property is moved. The Morse Residence remains in its original location and therefore qualifies under this aspect. DESIGN Design is the combination of elements that create the form, plan, space, structure, and style of a property. It results from conscious decisions made during the original conception and planning of a property and applies to activities as diverse as community planning, engineering, architecture, and landscape architecture. Design includes such elements as organization of space, proportion, scale, technology, ornamentation, and materials. A property's design reflects historic functions and technologies as well as aesthetics. It includes such considerations as the structural system; massing; arrangement of spaces; pattern of fenestration; textures and colors of surface materials; type, amount, and style of ornamental detailing. The Morse Residence's essential characteristics of form, plan, space, structure, and style have survived largely intact. Similarly, the structural system; massing; arrangement of spaces; pattern of fenestration; and the type, amount, and style of detailing (as designed into the 1961 addition -alteration), have survived largely intact. SETTING Setting is the physical environment of a historic property. Whereas location refers to the specific place where a property was built or an event occurred, setting refers to the character of the place in which the property played its historical role. It involves how, not just where, the property is situated and its relationship to surrounding features and open space. Setting often reflects the basic physical conditions under which a property was built and the functions it was intended to serve. In addition, the way in which a property is positioned in its environment can reflect the designer's concept of nature and aesthetic preferences. The setting of the Morse Residence continues to reflect the architect's original design relationship of site and structure. MATERIALS Materials are the physical elements that were combined or deposited during a particular period of time and in a particular pattern or configuration to form a historic property. The choice and combination of materials reveals the preferences of those who created the property and indicate the availability of particular types of materials and technologies. As mentioned previously, while some of the Morse Residence's exterior surface materials have been painted, this change does not constitute a significant loss of the physical elements that expressed the design during the building's period of HSPB 45 03.03.15 26 significance; the particular pattern and configuration that today forms the building site survives intact. WORKMANSHIP Workmanship is the physical evidence of the crafts of a particular culture or people during any given period in history or prehistory. It is the evidence of artisans' labor and skill in constructing or altering a building, structure, object, or site. Workmanship can apply to the property as a whole or to its individual components. It can be expressed in vernacular methods of construction and plain finishes or in highly sophisticated configurations and ornamental detailing. It can be based on common traditions or innovative period techniques. Workmanship is important because it can furnish evidence of the technology of a craft, illustrate the aesthetic principles of a historic or prehistoric period, and reveal individual, local, regional, or national applications of both technological practices and aesthetic principles. Examples of workmanship in historic buildings include tooling, carving, painting, graining, turning, and joinery. The workmanship of the Morse Residence is comprised of integral ornamental detailing reflected in native stone, concrete block, glass and steel. The property continues to express a high degree of contemporary period workmanship. FEELING Feeling is a property's expression of the aesthetic or historic sense of a particular period of time. It results from the presence of physical features that, taken together, convey the property's historic character. For example, a rural historic district retaining original design, materials, workmanship, and setting will relate the feeling of agricultural life in the 19th century. When constructed, the Morse Residence was part of a well - planned modernist tract development and sited to take advantage of panoramic, mountain views to the west. Accordingly, the Morse Residence retains its original integrity of feeling. r_V&1010IGtIIQzI Association is the direct link between an important historic event or person and a historic property. A property retains association if it is the place where the event or activity occurred and is sufficiently intact to convey that relationship to an observer. Like feeling, association requires the presence of physical features that convey a property's historic character. For example, a Revolutionary War battlefield whose natural and man- made elements have remained intact since the 18th century will retain its quality of association with the battle. Because feeling and association depend on individual perceptions, their retention alone is never sufficient to support eligibility of a property for the National Register. The Morse Residence is an important example of a modernist private residence in Palm Springs. Accordingly, it continues its association with a pattern of events that have made a meaningful contribution to the community. INTEGRITY SUMMARY: The Morse Residence appears to be in excellent condition partially due to the use of construction materials suitable for the harsh desert HSPB 03.0315 46 27 environment. This integrity analysis confirms that the building and site of the Morse Residence still possess all seven aspects of integrity. As previously asserted, while the Morse Residence has had one significant addition -alteration, this sympathetic and well-done addition -alteration is now more than 50 years old, was designed by a master architect, and has become an important and integral part of the history of the residence. Overall, most of the early and important character -defining features of the residence survive with some exceptions. For example, in January 2015 the current front door (which is most likely more sympathetic to the original design) replaced a less sympathetic replacement from a circa 2000 renovation. After 1970 the single -bay garage was replaced with a double -bay garage and in 1976 a spa was placed in the existing terrazzo pad adjacent to the pool. Finally, vintage photographs indicate that an internal re jiggering of some interior spaces may have occurred over the years but did not substantially impact the external envelope of the residence. Therefore, the residence and site both retain a moderately high degree of integrity sufficient to qualify it for designation as a Class 1 historic site. (Note: The last paragraph of "The Levitt Connection" on page 18 of this nomination is also relevant to this Integrity Analysis). 8. Bibliography Attached is a list of books, articles, and other sources cited or used in preparing this application and other documentation that may be relevant. Books Architectural Resources Group. City of Palm Springs Historic Resources Survey. San Francisco, 2004 Harlan, James R. The Alexanders: A Desert Legacy. Palm Springs. Palm Springs Preservation Foundation, 2011. National Park Service. National Register Bulletin 15, How to Apply the National Register Criteria for Evaluation. U.S. Department of the Interior, Washington, D.C. Maaazines and Other Documentary Sources John Aaroe Group (real estate brokerage firm) website Levitt + Moss Architects company website Los Angeles Times newspaper, April 29, 2003 edition, article entitled "Harold Levitt, 81; Architect Created Homes for Stars of Show Business." Palm Springs Life, Annual Desert Progress Issue, September 1970, "Luxury' Palm Springs Life, April 2004, `inside Out' 47 HSPB 03.03.15 28 Palm Springs Life, February 2006, "Midcentury Redux" Palm Springs Life, February 2015, "In Perfect Harmony" Other Sources Consulted - City of Palm Springs (Planning and Building Departments) - Palm Springs Historical Society - Palm Springs Public Library - Riverside County Assessor's Office - University of Nevada, Las Vegas, University Libraries - Hal Levitt archival material in the possession of Steven Price 9. Geographical Data Acreage of Property: Approximately .27 acres (or 11,761 sq. ft.) Property Boundary Description: See Appendix II 10. Prepared By Name/title: Ronald W. & Barbara A. Marshall Organization: Submitted on behalf of the Palm Springs Preservation Foundation Street address: 1775 East Palm Canyon Drive, Suite 110-195 City: Palm Springs State: CA Zip: 92264 Telephone: (760) 837-711 e-mail address: info@pspreservationfoundation.org 11. Required Documentation Submit the following items with the completed application form. Do not mount any exhibits on a board. 1. Attachment Sheets. Include all supplemental information based on application form above). 2. Maps: For Historic Districts, include a sketch map identifying the proposed districts boundaries. 3. Photographs: Eight (8) sets of color photographs showing each elevation of the property and its surroundings. HSPS 03.03.15 29 4. Non -owner's Notarized Signature: If the applicant is not the owner, a notarized affidavit shall be provided (see following page). 5. Site Plan: One 1/8" to 1/4" scale drawing of the site, and eight reduction copies (8 %2 11 inches) The site plan shall show all of the following: Property boundaries, north arrow and scale, all existing buildings, structures, mechanical equipment, landscape materials, fences, walls, sidewalks, driveways, parking areas showing location of parking spaces, and signs. Indicate the square footage and use of each building and the date(s) of construction. 6. Public Hearing Labels: Three (3) sets of typed self-adhesive labels of all property owners, lessees, and sub -lessees of record. The labels shall include the Assessor's parcel number, owner's name and mailing address of each property with 400 feet from the exterior limits of the subject property. Additionally, all Assessor Parcel Maps clearly indicating the 400-foot radius and a certified letter from a title company licensed to conduct business in Riverside County, California shall be submitted. Note: If any property on this list is owned by the United States Government in trust for the Agua Caliente Indian Tribe or individual allottee, copies of notices with postage paid envelopes will be submitted to the Bureau of Indian Affairs to notify the individual Indian land owners of the public hearings. HSPB 49 03.03.15 30 Appendix I: Letter of Owner Support Jall uar I5, 2015 City of Palm Springs 1 listoric Site Presern'ation Board 3200 Tahquiti Canyon Wa} Palm Springs. CA 92262 Dear Honorable Board. As the current owners of the Theodore Morse Residence at 1 197 Abrigo Road (built by the Alexander Construction Company and modified b} architect Hal Levitt in 1960- we enthusiasticall) support the Class I Historic Site designation ofour property by the chN of Palm Springs. We have asked the Palm Springs Preservation Foundation (specifically board members Ron & Barbara Marshall) to assist us in the preparation of the required nomination papernnrk. if you have am questions please feel free to contact us at 847-370-426 3 or b% email at jgand it gand.cnm. S incerch . �I Juan Gand J�. L� j Gan Gand 60 HSPB 0303.15 31 Appendix II: 1960 Grant Deed (includes Legal Description) KIM 4 Op exU[ xuNn m txn ,Parr fP ci 37��'1� )Dial Tenancy Grant N-441 I x-,f0.45 (bNY.ua.l) ;i IAS PAYNS NSTATYS, o Co-Paruersblp j 14R\\TX1 1:11\\TU1L 1 ION 1 NII'UL1. OI\NIIf X{p0\ .e.egn .I .h.t 6hnA.. a. L..olwl .I � i Ib Hrrcbr l'nar Tn Tyr `OR66 vd 0dI9P. MDRSP, WIFOtld sea Nlft at i .+b ]ar+Twxel. M rnl pwgm, �.IM � Cqm• id Rfvncetle. � i,. ,,l I 'L.,n� .I. ,Ir.l r t.IL. Jc + na:a +sB emr. nu ., xe Y`"` xxV ccca .a au u�s�x av VMR zz oz Ngxa�neerda of Riranlie Lcunry, G3ffern4-•a , Goblet) to: 7 1. Ssoenn-MlE W"141 and SPNCE.1 Tama for rbe ftYcxl Tar 1960-1961. 2- Coodltlar, restriotlra, racer tlons, corms rtbeuti. riSbu and Yt66ef of .O, oar of +K if ry. ]. Yfret Test Deed of record. 4. Brand T..t D. to rmord. W,M otto0rr 20. 100 OIeI M gMYYM r. P WP 1Wir 1. s d nib a r r—IYi-S6�.e W MYriy tlY�t��l�ry6�tY CIIeW_ .Ilu.r1 41./M 6� rr �i Wt k y .d. Mid amW � .ti.� 611i .TWtees" W wl. ®r IWI) Prr :I rrl 1tlS P / D): /• L -. 0. et A � ei, ANeI Hlla xH nxnI'll N111 IN" 1"'..Mr\IN F Y.er CairN $53 S.uN PW C.Rmrrxn Drift. ran.9RF].Es,1LLlf. W." y t4 FOF W 2.16]9 EP1LC NYYr+W ,M N,uOr,u[w a uYe VYIr ~ As corroborated by later documentation, the Legal Description on the October 20, 1960 Joint Tenancy Grant Deed reads: "Lot 1, Vista Las Palmas No. 2, as per map recorded in Book 39 page 72 of Maps, records of Riverside County, California." 51 HSPB 03.03 15 32 Appendix III: Assessor's Map Parcel Number: 505092007.2 Map Book: 505 Page/Block: 092 Parcel: 7 Check Digit: 2 „-, - 505-09 rcA o.<ava Par S2 SE4NW4 SfC/O T45 R.4f. oil-e„ - - 1197 Abrigo Rpad vu ;VLb � +/Y� !I IM O O '0 � w t� 1 Om a MI r ; N C ,. - 0 r•, W wu l w r© t 0. it ., 0,11.0 i ! fI O ,• p � �.� O O O p _O N . I ,'rl � r w.o r•., r. I I Il - Y.R. S)/71 Y/S/A (AS PAaYAS AD ! NO J7145 Awwr ,W 52 HSPB 03.03.15 33 HSPB 03 03 15 Appendix IV: William Krisel, AIA Biography (The following is excerpted from The Alexanders: A Desert Legacy) William Krisel received a degree in architecture from the University of Southern California (USC) in June of 1949. During his time at USC, Krisel apprenticed at the offices of Paul Laszlo and later at Victor Gruen and Associates. In September of 1949, Krisel partnered with architect Daniel Saxon Palmer to form Palmer & Krisel (Palmer had left Victor Gruen and Associates in 1947). Palmer & Krisel was quickly recognized as a firm that paid careful attention to the requirements of builders. Specifically, they were very successful in solving the problem of producing good design while still meeting tight project budgets. In the mid-1950s, Palmer & Krisel started to receive substantial professional recognition for their work. This recognition ranged from awards bestowed by the local Southern California chapter of the American Institute of Architects to recognition from the influential National Association of Homebuilders. The firm was also listed as one of the "top 100 firms in the nation" by the seminal Progressive Architecture magazine. The Los Angeles -based architectural firm of Palmer & Krisel produced a large and diverse body of work including residential housing tracts, office high-rises and shopping centers. In all, 40,000 housing units were produced by the firm. In 1964, the Palmer- Krisel partnership dissolved. Daniel Palmer died on December 22, 2007 in Santa Monica, California. 53 34 Appendix V: Additional Photographic Documentation (Note: The more mundane photographs of the Morse Residence, for example the pool equipment structure and the external laundry room, are included in a supplemental compact disk.) Front door with random board and batten design and period "brutalist" light fixture. This door treatment replaced a circa 2000 renovation which featured a rather unsympathetic glass -framed front door. Also shown are a terrazzo planter, terrazzo flatwoork, painted stonework, garage opening (left) and supporting pier (right) for screen block wall. w N 000OW Double -bay garage doors which replaced a single bay garage door after 1970 54 HSPB 03.03,15 35 r 4 ' i+. r+. r+. r+. r+..+. i+. r+. 1� ►+i ►+i ►+i i i.rvS • Concrete screen block wall covering windows on east facade. The "Empress" screen block pattern is discussed in detail in Appendix Vill. Terrazzo sidewalk and planters 55 HSPB 03-03.15 3b Wall of concrete block "Shadowal" on north edge of property. The concrete block wall surrounds much of the Morse Residence. Pool, spa (in foreground), stone -clad support columns and projecting "V" wall (in background) HSPB 56 03.03.15 37 View over the pool into the sunken living room showing the seamless indoor -outdoor effect designed into the architecture. The top of the bar can also be seen. Southwest patio area showing projecting "V" wall, stone -clad support column, deep eave and portions of the southwest sliding glass pocket doors rJ i HSPB 03.03.15 3N View from the patio, through the south sliding glass pocket doors and sunken living room to the pool and beyond. Also seen are the deep eaves which provide passive solar control and the effect of "transparency" when the large glass pocket doors are stowed. 56 HSPB 03.03.15 39 Appendix VI: Photographs of Select } ad Architectural Details i Random board and batten ;X Painted stonework (historical photographs indicate stonework was painted prior to 1970) i i Concrete block (trade name "Shadowal") S9 HSPB 03.03.15 40 Appendix VII: Additional Historical Photographs Vintage photo of Morse Residence interior circa 1970 (note painted stonework) (Photo by Paul Pospesil courtesy Palm Springs Historical Society) Vintage photo of Morse Residence interior circa 1970 (Photo by Paul Pospesil courtesy Palm Springs Historical Society) L' HSPB 03.03.15 41 Appendix Vill: Empress and Venetian Pattern Concrete Screen Block The "Empress" pattern block appeared in an October 1958 Stearns Manufacturing advertisement in Concrete Products magazine as design "1680." The "Empress" marketing name was used as early as 1959 by General Concrete Products. The "Empress" pattern block is still widely available today and is undoubtedly the most popular screen block pattern ever produced. Architect Edward Durell Stone patented this block design in 1959 and used it in his commissions overseas and throughout the United States. Some of the early blocks produced under Stone's supervision included white marble chips in the concrete. The geometric diamond -circle pattern appears in both eastern and western cultures. As testament to the popularity of the "Empress' pattern, there are many subtle variations of the block design, possibly motivated by a desire to circumvent architect Stone's patent. Today, the "Empress' pattern is called "Cordova" by both Orco Block and Sepulveda Building Materials, "Mar -Veil I" by Adams Products, "No. 377" by A-1 Block, "No. 430" by Perez Brothers and "4377" by Tileco. Vintage names for the "Empress" pattern include "Filigree" by Buehner Block, "Trojan" by Pennsylvania Western, "Venetian" by Fleming Manufacturing, "430," "No. 377" and "No. 7753" by Columbia Machine, "No. 30" by Schuster's, "#122" by Park Architectural Block and design "1216" by Demaco. The "Venetian" (Type A) pattern block appeared in a General Concrete Products advertisement in the January 1959 issue of Concrete Masonry Age magazine. The "Venetian" (Type A) pattern is relatively common, though whether it seems Italian is debatable. A solid -backed version of the pattern appeared in a Universal Atlas Cement advertisement in the February 1962 issue of Architectural Forum. Today, the "Venetian" (Type A) pattern is offered as the "Monterray" design by Bend Industries, Jewell Concrete and Superlite Block. Vintage names for the "Venetian" (Type A) pattern include "Style 327" by Besser, "No. 412" by Columbia Machine and design "1212" by Demaco. A squashed 4xl2x16 version of the "Venetian" (Type A) pattern has also been sighted. (The foregoing was excerpted from an unpublished manuscript, The Power of Pattern: Concrete Screen Block in Midcentury Architecture, by Ron & Barbara Marshall) 61 RSPB 03,03.15 42 CITY OF PALM SPRINGS NOTIFICATION OF APPEAL a Date: January 13, 2016 Subject: HSPB #94 — "The Theodore & Claire Morse Residence" at 1197 Abrigo Rd. AFFIDAVIT OF PUBLICATION I, Cynthia A. Berardi, Deputy City Clerk, of the City of Palm Springs, California, do hereby certify that a copy of the attached Notice of Public Hearing was published in the Desert Sun on January 2, 2016. I declare under penalty of perjury that the foregoing is true and correct. Cynthia AC. Berardi, CMC Deputy City Clerk ►_1JylI7_\T/111r97;A191*tt.`X I, Cynthia A. Berardi, Deputy City Clerk, of the City of Palm Springs, California, do hereby certify that a copy of the attached Notice of Public Hearing was posted at City Hall, 3200 E. Tahquitz Canyon Drive, on the exterior legal notice posting board, and in the Office of the City Clerk on December 31, 2015. I declare under penalty of perjury that the foregoing is true and correct. C nthia erarB di CMC Y , Deputy City Clerk AFFIDAVIT OF MAILING I, Cynthia A. Berardi, Deputy City Clerk, of the City of Palm Springs, California, do hereby certify that a copy of the attached Notice of Public Hearing was mailed to each and every person on the attached list on December 31, 2015, in a sealed envelope, with postage prepaid, and depositing same in the U.S. Mail at Palm Springs, California. (86 notices) I declare under penalty of perjury that the foregoing is true and correct. Cynthi�(A. Berardi, CMC Deputy City Clerk 62 FRY,DEREK 505-350-012 236 WILBURY DR SALT SPRING ISLAND BC V8K 2L7 - VARELA,TAIE 505-083-004 2250 GREEN ST SAN FRANCISCO CA 94123-7401 BOILER, JOHN P 505-081-004 464 34TH ST MANHATTAN BEACH CA 90266-3308 FRAGEN,ANDREW 505-350-002 1187 LOS ROBLES DR PALM SPRINGS CA 92262-4123 URNESS,RONALD 505-082-014 110 BANK ST SE APT 1802 MINNEAPOLIS MN 55414-3900 KOLINS, ALAN J 505-072-003 2704 GLENDOWER AVE LOS ANGELES CA 90027-1117 C A H HOLDI LLC �SEELINGER, WILLIAM W 1 505-081-003:' /ljt 1 505-072-005 1554 16TFF ST 1 1010 W FRIAR CI' SANTA MONICA CA 90404-3309 PALM SPRINGS CA 92262-4119 SILVA, JERRY J 505-350-001 1191 LOS ROBLES DR PALM SPRINGS CA 92262-4123 LEUDY,GERALD BRUCE 505-091-002 7 HEAVER GATE DE WINTON AB CANADA XX - MALINKA, FRANK 505-072-001 401 2525 QUEBEC ST VANCOUVER BC CANA CANA- RODGERS,RONALD PAUL 505-083-003 1290 ABRIGO RD PALM SPRINGS CA 92262-4104 MCKAY, MALCOLM J 505-082-020 1276 N ROSE AVE PALM SPRINGS CA 922624147 BARTLETT,ADAM ALAN 505-350-003 444 W 19TH ST PH 2 NEW YORK NY 10011-3850 OCARROLL, JOHN PATRICK 505-081-006 1930 S CAMINO REAL 4 8 PALM SPRINGS CA 92264-9290 STEWART, LIAM F 505-072-00 rL 1210 L ROBLES DR PAL SPRINGS CA 92262-4126 MICHALEWICZ, PAUL J 505-082-019 757 REMBRANDT DR LAGUNA BEACH CA 92651-3414 PETRICCIANI, JOHN C 505-082-013 PO BOX 1925 PALM SPRINGS CA 92263-1925 IADEVAIA,RUSSELL 505-091-001 7290 PACKWOOD TRI- LOS ANGELES CA 90068-2048 DUBE, ER n to 505-08 05 N 210 WASHINGTON SQ # 25W P ADELPHIA PA 19106-3514 WONG,MARSHALL 505-072-004 1015 W FRIAR CT PALM SPRINGS CA 92262-41 19 BLANCHARD, AUDREY JOAN MABEL 505-082-022 1326 N ROSE AVE PALM SPRINGS CA 92262-4147 PLANTE, HENRY A 505-350-011 1176 LOS ROBLES DR PALM SPRINGS CA 92262-4124 MAHLER,RALPH ANTHONY 505-350-013 1198 LOS ROBLES DR PALM SPRINGS CA 92262-4124 HOYT,ROBERT 505-083-002 407 LAGUNA RD PASADENA CA 91105-2218 ZODIKOFF, CRAIG A 505-082-015 74 AZTEC ST SAN FRANCISCO CA 94110-5103 NELSON, KATHLEEN A 505-082-018 3002 3RD ST UNIT 207 SANTA MONICA CA 90405-5482 DIAZ, NAT14ANIEL VIGNA, DOMINICK A NORTH, ROSE HOLDINGS 505-082-021 505-082-017 505-092-006 1294 N ROSE AVE 530 CAMERON ST 1636 MATTHEWS AVE VANCOUVER PALM SPRINGS CA 92262-4147 PLACENTIA CA 92870-6425 BC CANA CANA- /; i 3 /A SCHUSTER, DARYL W MOON, ROBERT L 505-083-001 505-093-001 888 W VIA VADERA 1196 ABRIGO RD PALM SPRINGS CA 92262-4173 PALM SPRINGS CA 92262-4102 CLOSSIN JR, JAMES E PERLMUTTER, SAM 505-092-008 505-092-004 1165 ABRIGO RD 165 S WINDSOR BLV D PALM SPRINGS CA 92262-4101 LOS ANGELES CA 90004-3817 CORTEZ, DOUGLAS H 855 VIA LAS PALMAS 505-093-017 505-083-005 789 BAYVIEW PL PO BOX 99325 LAGUNA BEACH CA 92651-2601 SEATTLE WA 98139-0325 KISSAM, EDWARD W ISRAEL, RICKY 505-083-016 505-083-017 4810 TRINIDAD AVE 1616 34TH CT W OAKLAND CA 94602-4150 SEATTLE WA 98199-3906 MERLIS, ROBERT GILLESPIE, RICHARD JOHN 505-083-013 505-083-018 507 N GOWER ST 600 S 2ND ST APT 501 LOS ANGELES CA 90004-1301 MINNEAPOLIS MN 55401-2158 GUMM, RICHARD D BUDDIG, JOY 505-093-002 505-093-003 790 RAVENSBURY ST 683 GOLF CLUB LN LAKE SHERWOOD CA 91361-5152 FRANKFORT IL 60423-9518 CHERRY, DON NEIL 505-091-003 1143 N ROSE AVE PALM SPRINGS CA 92262-4144 CONE, MARY E 505-093-005 765 W VIA VADERA PALM SPRINGS CA 92262-4170 SPARKY VISTA LLC 505-093-006 1117 CABRILLO AVE VENICE CA 90291-3702 URIBE, STEVEN ALAN 505-083-011 223 W ALAMEDA AVE STE BURBANK CA 91502-2575 BERNARD,JOHN 505-092-005 1425 TERRACE WAY LAGUNA BEACH CA 92651-2813 MILLEE, MIC AEL ��// 515-093- (z 2337 62ND ST S TTLE WA 98103-5722 ARNOLD, STEVE W 505-083-015 1290 N VIA PARAfSO PALM SPRINGS CA 92262-4169 MACARTHUR, THALIA C 505-083-014 PO BOX 3243 PALM SPRINGS CA 92263-3243 LAMARTINA, JAMES M 505-082-016 1267 ABRIGO RD PALM SPRINGS CA 92262-4103 ZBUR, RICHARD S 505-083-012 8743 ASHCROFT AVE WEST HOLLYWOOD CA 90048-1801 MILLER, MEREDITH 505-093-004 101 797 W VIA VADERA PALM SPRINGS CA 92262-4170 CRAMER, MARK T 505-093-013 921 JACON WAY PACIFIC PALISADES CA 90272-2834 MARCHI, MICHAEL A 505-093-011 2517 BILTMORE DR ALAMO CA 94507-2300 ARNOVITZ, SCOTT JAY 505-093-012 1490 QUEENS RD LOS ANGELES CA 90069-1913 LOPEZ, TRINI 505-092-009 1139 ABRIGO RD PALM SPRINGS CA 92262-4101 CARPENCY, GERARD J DURHAM, KELTON STROWD DINTZER, DANIEL L 505-350-009 505-091-005 505-092-003 3159 62ND ST 625 31 ST ST 424 S BEVERLY DR SAUGATUCK MI 49453-9701 MANHATTAN BEACH CA 90266-3419 BEVERLY HILLS CA 902124402 RUTTAN, WILLIAM D 505-092-010 1111 ABRIGO RD PALM SPRINGS CA 92262-4101 BERNARD,JOHN 505-093.016 v 120 W 157T GARDE CA 9024$-2226 DECHAINE90, JAMES A 505-092-01 879 CAMJ O DEL S PALM §PRINGS CA 92262- RYAN, MATTHE W T 505-092-002 1078 N ROSE AVE PALM SPRINGS CA 92262-4143 IADEVAL,RUSSELL 505-092-001 7290 PACKWOOD TRL LOS ANGELES CA 90068-2048 OBRIEN, QUENI IN 505-093-014 f / 2232 MORENO DR LOS ANGELES CA 90039-3044 SESTER, DAVID W 505-093-010 1130 N PASEO DERO PALM SPRINGS CA 92262-4129 CRABTREE,DEWAYNE 505-350-004 1719 HIGHLAND OAKS DR ARCADIA CA 91006-1736 DOYLE, DAVID K 505-093-009 1106 N PASEO DERO PALM SPRINGS CA 92262-4129 RETURNED MAIL WADSWORTH, RICHARD A 505-092-014 1601 428 BEACH CRESCENT VANCOUVER BC CANA CANA- SHI, ROMAN ALCIDES 505-350-010 1164 LOS ROBLES DR PALM SPRINGS CA 92262-4124 MILLIE, MICHAEL 505-093-018 2000 1" AVENUE, APT. 1602 SEATTLE, WA 98121-2170 MOORE, MICHAEL S 505-092-011 332 SARATOGA GLN ESCONDIDO CA 92025-7358 SMITH, STANLEY THOMAS 505-092-012 3836 13TH ST CALGARY AB CANADA CANADA- MOLONY, SYLVIA SCHULTE 505-093-015 8980 CALLE REAL GOLETA CA 93117-9745 HAZELL,ANTHONY JOHN 505-092-015 747 MONTROYAL BLV N VANCOUVER BC CANADA V7R2G4 CANADA- HACHIYA,ALEXANDER 505-091-004 1973 15TH ST SAN FRANCISCO CA 94114-1729 k� 11 ji{f F�'k MR PETE MORUZZI }jI N1 % eft PALM SPRINGS MODERN COMMITTEE P.O. BOX 4738 PALM SPRINGS, CA 92263-4738 of. 44. i6 CITY OF PALM SPRINGS CASE HSPB 94 PLANNING SERVICES DEPARTMENT MRS. JOANNE BRUGGEMANS Ili ATTN SECRETARY / HSPB 94 506 W. SANTA CATALINA ROAD PO BOX 2743 PALM SPRINGS, CA 92262 PALM SPRINGS, CA 92263-2743 MS PATRICIA GARCIA MS MARGARET PARK, DIRECTOR TRIBAL HISTORIC PRESERVATION s "' 4-'' - Iir»' AGUA CALIENTE BAND OF CAHUILLA OFFICER p, } INDIANS AGUA CALIENTE BAND OF CAHUILLA PLANNING & DEVELOPMENT DEPT. INDIANS 5401 DINAH SHORE DRIVE 5401 DINAH SHORE DRIVE PALM SPRINGS, CA 92264 PALM SPRINGS, CA 92264 SOBOBA BAND OF LUISEC40 INDIANS MR FRANK TYSEN ATTN: JOSEPH ONTIVEROS CASA CODY INN CULTURAL RESOURCES MANAGER 175 S. CAHUILLA ROAD P.O. BOX 487 PALM SPRINGS, CA 92262 SAN JACINTO, CA 92581 MRS BARBARA MARSHALL MR & MRS GARY GAND PALM SPRINGS PRESERVATION FOUN- 1197 ABRIGO ROAD DATION PALM SPRINGS, CA 92262 1775 E. PALM CANYON DRIVE PALM SPRINGS, CA 92264 NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING CITY COUNCIL CITY OF PALM SPRINGS PROPOSED DESIGNATION OF 1197 ABRIGO ROAD `THE THEODORE & CLAIRE MORSE RESIDENCE" AS A CLASS 1 HISTORIC SITE 1197 ABRIGO ROAD, AND NOTICE OF EXEMPTION FROM CEQA (CASE HSPB #94) NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the City Council of the City of Palm Springs, California, will hold a Public Hearing at its meeting of January 13, 2016. The City Council meeting begins at 6:00 p.m. in the Council Chamber at City Hall, 3200 East Tahquitz Canyon Way, Palm Springs. The purpose of the hearing is to consider a recommendation by the Historic Site Preservation Board (HSPB) to designate the residence at 1197 Abrigo Road 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 Planning Services Department, City Hall, 3200 East Tahquitz Canyon Way, Palm Springs, between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m., Monday through Thursday. REVIEW OF PROJECT INFORMATION: The staff report and other supporting documents regarding this project are available for public review at City Hall between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m., Monday through Thursday. 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, RA, Associate Planner, at (760) 323-8245. Si necesita ayuda con esta carta, porfavor Ilame a la Ciudad de Palm Springs y puede hablar con Felipe Primera telefono (760) 323-8253. James Thompson City Clerk 63 V OtPPLM Sp4 Q Department of Planning Services ��„e.•= •N Vicinity Map C4<IFORN�p A -'_-'I- I <1 -- rUj a - a --- A VADERA O �, - - - CAMINO DEL SUR { Legend ® Site -- -- - — -�-- -,�- 500 Feet Radius CITY OF PALM SPRINGS 61 HSPB 94 - The Theodore and Claire Morse Residence — Neighborhood Organizations Map Vista Las Palmas Sheila Cobrin scobrin(a.hotmail.com Old Las Palmas Dean Higgins deanihiaoins(d)amail.com --:MARISCAL RD — - � R 4�QR ' _ jam' 'INO to ?Q CH CA ORD PANORAMARD -. VISTXCMNO Qr Z#..:.- I ul "i :..y;.:.' y=`-.VIAtDEL SOL='=. O a RD „-'SrEVENS RD' .. .-SEVENS .-- ��� .v'i:: -:;i�CAMINODEL'NORTE-.•::.�.. .. c .. ... ...:. t.,. .. ...�..,:Ill - - Vista Las Palmas w VIAV` ERA- yynj .. m DEL° S'.; ...... r GAMIN _..,UR - �- _ 5..- Z. , O Id Las Pal as.VIALOLA b-- 'a 49C .->"?:" .HERAROSA'PL�':= n m Z CERES RD z Z Legend CRESCENT.DR:=- - site -- -IN r7112 M Pe Radius _ I •' O DR QNeighborhoodorgan¢ations - - -- _�= 4LEJO;RDA -- - - 6 Cindy Berardi From: Joanne Bruggemans Sent: Wednesday, December 30, 2015 2.08 PM To: Vista La Palmas; Old Las Palmas Cc: Ken Lyon; Cindy Berardi Subject: HSPB 94 - The Theodore & Claire Morse Residence Attachments: CC PHN HSPB 94.pdf To All — Please find the attached Public Hearing Notice of the City Council for Wednesday, January 13, 2016 of the proposed project within a'/2 mile of your neighborhood organization. Thank you, J Joanne H Bruggemans City of Palm Springs Planning Services Department 3200 E. Tahquitz Canyon Way, Palm Springs, CA 92262 Tel: (760) 323-8245 Fax: (760) 322-8360 Email: ioanne.brueeemans(@i3almsorinesca-aov W The Desert Sun 750 N Gene Autry Trail Palm Springs, CA 92262 760-778-45781 Fax 760-778-4731 state Of California ss: County of Riverside Certificate of Publication, Advertiser, CITY OF PALM SPRINGS/LEGALS PO BOX 2743 PALM SPRINGS CA 92263 Order# 000095BD91 I am over the age of 18 years old, a citizen of the United States and not a party to, or have interest in this matter. I hereby certify that the attached advertisement appeared in said newspaper (set in type not smaller than non panel) in each and entire issue of said newspaper and not in any supplement thereof on the following dates, to wit Newspaper: The Desert Sun 112l2016 I acknowledge that I am a principal clerk of the printer of The Desert Sun, printed and published weekly in the City of Palm Springs, County of Riverside, State of California. The Desert Sun was adjudicated a Newspaper of general circulation on March 24, 1988 by the Superior Court of the County of Riverside, State of California Case No. 191236 I declare under penalty of perjury that the foregoing is true and correct. Executed on this 2nd day of 3ANUARY, 2016 in Palm Springs, Calif nia. No 0011. NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING CITY COUNCIL CITY OF PALM SPRINGS PROPOSED DESIGNATION OF 1197 ABRIGO ROAD "THE THEODORE & CIAIRE MORSE RESIDENCE" AS A CLASS 1 HISTORIC SITE 1197 ABRIGO ROAD, AND NOTICE OF EXEMPTION FROM CEQA (CASE HSPB 494) NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Ci Council of the City of Palm 5ppring5, California, will hold a Public Hearing at is meeting of January 13, 2016. The CZCouncil meeting begins at 6..,00 p.m, in the Council Chamber at City Hall, 3200 East Tahgfuitz Canyon Way, Palm Springs. The puryose o the hearing is to consider a recommendation by the Historic Site Preservation Board (HSPB) to designate the residence at 1197 Abrigo Road a Cl" 1 historic site. . s WYDFPAIM 8RW09 Is 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 Clty Council by letter (for mail or hand delivery) to: James Thompson, City Clerk, 3 0U East To quitz 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 ip this Notice or in w itten correspondence delivered to the City Clerk at or prior to, the City Council hear- res ra questions rC a,vin Tills Case may Ce CneCTIM t0 KM Lyon, i1A, Asaao4 ate Planner, at p60) 29-92 S. Si necesite ayuda can esta Carta, porfaror (lame a Is Oudad de Palm Springs y fuede hablar ran Felipe Primers telefono (760) 323-B253. James Thompson City Clerk Published: i12/16 . .. .. _.....�."„+env