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HomeMy WebLinkAbout5/21/2014 - STAFF REPORTS - 1.C. �O�p A LM SAf iy A V 1n t r r �Orrou.c>•J• cq<rFo �P. CITY COUNCIL STAFF REPORT DATE: May 21, 2014 PUBLIC HEARING SUBJECT: CITY COUNCIL REVIEW OF THE HSPB DECISION TO APPROVE AS CONDITIONED THE INTERIOR DESIGN OF THE WELWOOD MURRAY MEMORIAL LIBRARY. FROM: David H. Ready, City Manager BY: Special Projects Coordinator P 1 SUMMARY Pursuant to Palm Springs Municipal Code § 2.06.030, the City Council will review the May 13, 2014, decision of the Historic Site Preservation Board to "Approve with Conditions" the interior of the Welwood Murray Memorial Library (WMML). RECOMMENDATION: 1. Open the public hearing and receive public testimony. 2. Review the action of the Historic Site Preservation Board concerning the Interior of the WMML to uphold, modify or reverse said actions. STAFF ANALYSIS: Palm Springs Municipal Code Section 8.05.195 states the Historic Site Preservation Board "may not consider the interior arrangement of the structure, except in the case of public buildings." "Interior arrangement" is not defined in the Code. In light of the City Council's previous determination that the WMML project was a renovation, the design team put together a complete interior package for the HSPB to review. The complete package was presented to the HSPB at their meeting of May 13, 2014, and the Board determined "Approval with Conditions". (Copy of the HSPB staff report and exhibits are attached). The Conditions are as follows (see attached Minutes of the HSPB meeting): 1. Remove the proposed Medallion/logo completely. 2. Explore the gift offer of the Palm Springs Preservation Foundation; replicate the front desk in shape, size and overall design. 3. Replace the table top "candlestick" lighting. 4. Remove the wall covering from the wall behind the book cases. 5. Change the chandelier to a single stem fixture like the Woman's Club. 6. Switch the furniture to wood style furniture. 7. Select a new table lamp representative of 1940 Palm Springs". ITEM NO. ,�l City Council Staff Report May 21, 2014- Page 2 Welwood Murray Memorial Library— HSPB Interior Review THE MIEDALUON&OGO X CIRCULAR DESK CANDLESTICK LAMP WALL COVERING CHANDELIER FURNITURE 02 City Council Staff Report May 21, 2014- Page 2 Welwood Murray Memorial Library— HSPB Interior Review During the HSPB meeting several members of the Board expressed disappointment they were not included in the users design process of the interior, and indicated the Interior Designer was provided inconsistent direction; in summary, his work was to have been a restoration of the building. The "restoration" vs. "renovation" issue was previously resolved when the City Council determined and provided direction that the overall design effort was to be one of renovation and refurbishing. Based on the City Council direction Michael Thomas, Design Collective, was added to the design team to develop an interior design that did not replicate but rather was respectful of the historic nature of the building and that met the needs of the users and the adaptive re-use of the building. To carry this effort, out Mr. Thomas met with all three of the potential users to listen to their needs and conducted research of the design standards of the time; early 1940's. Mr. Thomas documented his approach to the design in a Memo to the HSPB dated May 2, 2014, copy attached as part of the HSPB staff report. Once a preliminary concept was developed, the design concept was presented for initial comment and direction to Library Staff, Library Board Subcommittee, Historical Society, Library Board and the City Council Subcommittee. The user/reviewing groups were completely elated with the design, and approved it for submittal to the HSPB. If there were issues with the design from the users the project timeline allowed for us to take the design to the HSPB subcommittee for their review and input; however, after the unanimous approval from the user groups, direction was given to go before the HSPB with the design for their input. Specific comments to the Conditions of Approval are as follows: 1. Medallion/Logo: The "circle in the square" brings together in one symbol the four guiding principles in the reuse of WMML; information, education, knowledge and research. Such a unifying feature was thought to be a great idea for the rebirth of this facility. 2. Front Desk Gift Offer: Staff has had two meetings, more than four months apart, with the designer provided by the Palm Springs Preservation Foundation; little or no progress was being made, so with the project time constraints the task to design a circular front desk was given to the interior designer. The proposed design brings back a circular desk installed approximately at the same location as the original, however the needs of a modern library (computers, point of sale devices, etc.) were designed into the desk as well as ADA standards were met. 3. Table Top Lighting: This is purely a selection by the interior designer which was supported b the users and not sup ported b HSPB. Pp Y PP Y 4. Remove Wall Covering: The easterly wall in the main room of the building, in historic pictures, is shown as a place where art work was displayed. That is the intent of 03 City Council Staff Report May 21, 2014 - Page 2 Welwood Murray Memorial Library— HSPB Interior Review the design; the wall covering was added to help with poor acoustics in the room and as a better mounting methodology to easily change-out art exhibits. 5. Chandelier: The design offered is one with four rods suspending the fixture; HSPB wanted it to be like the one in original pictures with a single rod. 6. Switch to Wood Furniture: Before this design was offered it was proposed to utilize all wood furniture and the subcommittee rejected it outright. 7. Table Lamp: Same as three above. FISCAL IMPACT: The City Council has directed and urged the project is to move as quickly as possible after the years of delay. Making the changes suggested by the HSPB, to facilitate a restoration rather than the City Council approved renovation, will necessitate redesign work, additional design fees, re-review by all the reviewing bodies and additional time delays of as much as 60 days. To minimize the further delay and associated cost impact specific direction is sought from the City Council. Allen Smoot Special Projects Coordinator David H. Ready City Manager Attachment: 1. Minutes HSPB Meeting 2. HSPB staff report including submitted exhibits and designers memo 04 HISTORIC SITE PRESERVATION BOARD CITY OF PALM SPRINGS, CALIFORNIA t �1rrotY�� MEETING MINUTES TUESDAY, MAY 13, 2014 LARGE CONFERENCE ROOM, CITY HALL CALL TO ORDER: Chair Deleeuw called the meeting to order at 9:01-a'.m. ROLL CALL: PRESENT: Chair DeLeeuw, Vice-Chair Johns, Board members Burkett,=Ploss, Williamson. ABSENT: Board member Hays ALSO PRESENT: Director Wheeler, Associate Planner Lyon. ACCEPTANCE OF THE AGENDA: No changes. PUBLIC COMMENT: UNFINISHED BUSINESS: 2.D. A CERTIFICATE OF APPROVAL REQUEST BY THE CITY OF PALM SPRINGS FOR RENOVATION , OF THE INTERIOR SPACES AT THE WELWOOD MURRAY MEMORIAL LIBRARY, A CLASS 1 HISTORIC SITE, LOCATED AT 100 SOUTH PALM CANYON DRIVE, ZONE CBD, (CASE 3.1032 MAA, HSPB #3). Al Smoot, Project Administrator, said that he has gone to five groups before he got here and each group has unanimously approved the proposal. Michael Thomas, designer, presented the proposals. Vice-Chair Johns said he does not see that what is proposed in the letter is what we will see when it opens. The HSPB has a subcommittee for the Welwood Murray also. Was there another design scheme rejected? Were there other proposals that went to these groups? Mr. Thomas said he had sufficient data input and put his ideas into the design. Vice-Chair Johns said it was overly decorated and ornamented and hopes to work with Mr. Thomas to eliminate some things. The lighting feature combined with the circle in square feature is over-ornamented. He would like it to have an original institutional feel. As of now it has more of a 1999 feel not 1940's. 05 Historic Site Preservation Board Page 2 of 2 Minutes from the May 13, 2014 Meeting Board member Burkett said the difference between restore and redesign is important. It was barebones back in the 40's. The acoustical wall cover is not in character and the colors are not understandable. Board member Williamson said the use of space is done very well. He did not find the design choices, especially the use of medallions, incongruent with the building and its design. Board member Ploss highlighted that John Porter Clark designed clean lines and clerestory windows. The computer station desk looks more like New York City not Palm Springs. The layout is fine, but the style of interior is not Palm Springs. The medallions, chandelier and use of color do not have the same intent as the original building. The overuse of medallions is not appropriate. Chair DeLeeuw said he was disappointed that the HSPB subcommittee was not involved, because Mr. Thomas was not given the correct direction. We need to preserve our building. We all agree the layout is ok and the colors are generally ok. The medallions are a problem as is the front desk. The PSPF volunteered to buy a replica desk, but unfortunately the gift was denied. Motion by Vice-Chair Johns with second by Board member Ploss with conditions: 1) Remove all medallions. 2) Explore gift from PSPF to replicate the original desk. Desk to be original size, style and shape. Amendments were proposed and accepted: Board member Ploss: 3) Candlestick lights to be removed. Board member Burkett: 4) Wall covering to be removed. 5) Chandelier shall be hung from asingle pole. Vice-Chair Johns 6) The new table lamps shall reflect 40's Palm Springs and return to RSPB forreview. 7) Wood style chairs shall return to HSPB for review. M/S/C Approved 5-0 Board member Williamson noted that he favored the proposal without conditions. 06 ?ALMS. .°` °may P V N SS "4.f°RN' HISTORIC SITE PRESERVATION BOARD STAFF REPORT DATE: May 13, 2014 NEW BUSINESS SUBJECT: CERTIFICATE OF APPROVAL REQUEST BY THE CITY OF PALM SPRINGS FOR THE INTERIOR DESIGN OF THE RENOVATION AND REHABILITATION OF THE WELWOOD MURRAY MEMORIAL LIBRARY AT 100 SOUTH PALM CANYON DRIVE (CASE 3.1032 MAA / HSPB #3, ZONE CBD) FROM: Department of Planning Services SUMMARY The HSPB has issued several certificates of approval for various aspects of the Welwood Murray Memorial Llbrary Renovation. At its meeting of November 2013, the Board reviewed minor revisions on the project scope and at that time it was noted that the interior finish schedule and scope would be submitted at a later date for approval. That interior design is the scope of this certificate of approval request. RECOMMENDATION: Issue a certificate of approval for the fixtures, furnishings, equipment and color and material selections for the interior of the library with the following conditions: 1. Require a photometric study to assure proper and adequate lighting. 2. Bring the exterior landscape plan to the HSPB for approval at a future date. ISSUES: Pursuant to Municipal Code Section 8.05.180(3) and 8.05.195 any change that affects the "interior arrangement" of a public building is to receive a certificate of approval from the HSPB prior to issuance of building permits. The Board's previous comments, concerns and conditions of approval are noted herein. BACKGROUND: The Welwood Murray Memorial Library (WMML) is a Class 1 historic site. In 1938 George Welwood Murray donated the land at the southeast comer or Tahquitz Canyon 07 Historic Site Preservation Staff Report May 13, 2014 Case 3.1032 MAA—Welwood Murray Library—Interiors Page 2 of 6 Way and Palm Canyon Drive to provide for a public library as a memorial to his father, Welwood Murray, pioneer hotel operator. Cornelia White donated an additional strip of property on the eastern end of the site. The existing structure, designed by John Porter Clark and constructed by Charles Chamberlin, opened as the first permanent home of the Palm Springs Public Library in February 1941. With the completion of the Library Center at Sunrise Plaza in October 1975, the Welwood Murray Memorial Library became the downtown branch. I f. L p $ fit' YNR t� a` ,( a FRONT VIEW OF WELWOOD MEMORIAL LIBRARY BUILDING. w e AERIAL VIEW OF WELWOOD MURRAY MEMORIAL LIBRARY Over time the library became obsolete, as more print, reading and reference material have become accessible on-line via the internet. The library was closed several years ago and the City has been working in conjunction with the Library Board to remodel the library as a general information center and accessory library for residents and visitors to Palm Springs. 08 Historic Site Preservation Staff Report May 13, 2014 Case 3.1032 MAA—Welwood Murray Library—Interiors Page 3 of 6 The current project will provide state-of-the-art computer access systems, all new fixtures, fumishings and equipment, upgrades to infrastructure, mechanical systems, and restoration, renovation, and stabilization of the building itself. The scope of the renovation includes fully repainting the building in its original exterior color palette. The current project will also create archival storage areas for the Palm Spring's Historical Society archives. 1941 Welwood MurrayLibrary opened. October3, 1984 City Council designates the property at 100 South Palm Canyon Drive, the Welwood Murray Memorial Library as a Class 7 (now recognized as Class 1) historic site. July 13, 2010 Review of design and height of proposed roof on a proposed addition to the rear of the building, August 4,2010 Review and approval of the revised project scope. October 12, 2010 HSPB denied application for part of the pmject scope for the library renovation. November 17,2010 City Council voted 3-2 to deny an appeal request to reverse the HSPB action of 10/12/10 June 14, 2011 HSPB grants a Certificate of Approval with conditions for a renovation and rehabilitation of the library and approves the request with conditions including revisions to the interior floor plan. September 13,2011 HSPB approved an amendment to the Certificate of Approval for repair to the existing roof abate lead-based paint, provided ADA access and other minor exterior modifications. November 6, 2012 HSPB grants a Certificate of Approval with conditions for interior scope of work February 12,2013 HSPB approved minor amendments to the project (5-0-1 Gilmer absent) and appointed a sub-committee (Glenn, McGrew, Ploss) to assist with review and input on project scope between regularly scheduled HSPB meetings. October 8,2013 HSPB appoints new subcommittee (Johns, Ploss, Burkett) due to board member changes. November 12, 2013 HSPB votes 6-0 to approve a certificate of approval for minor revisions to the project scope including removal of windows, replacement of doors, improvements at dumpster, etc. Past actions specifically related to the interior renovation are outlined below. On June 14, 2011 the HSPB granted approval of a certificate of approval that included revisions of the interior floor plan. The following condition specific to the interior scope was imposed: COA 6.14.11/1. 1b. Submit to the board complete interior plans, including finishes, fixtures and permanent furnishings. On November 6, 2012 HSPB reviewed an interior floor plan to satisfy Condition "1 b" of the approval granted on June 14, 2011. The Board approved the interior plans subject 09 Historic Site Preservation Staff Report May 13, 2014 Case 3.1032 MAA—Welwood Murray Library—Interiors Page 4 of 6 to the following recommendations: COA 11.6.1211, Use the historic images in determining finishes, details, furnishings and fixtures so that they are sympathetic to the originals. COA 11.6.1212. Maintain visibility of the ceiling through the building to the greatest degree possible. COA 11.6.12(3. Create an ADA-compliant reception desk that resembles the original. At the February 12, 2013 meeting, the Board approved minor amendments to the project scope with specific conditions of approval related to the interiors as follows: 1. Reference historic images and select interior furnishings and finishes that are sympathetic to the buildings'history. 2. Consider the historic nature of the building when selecting lighting fixtures and integration of the security alarm system. The final design of the interior fixtures, furnishing, equipment and color and materials are the subject of this approval request. ANALYSIS: The current certificate of approval request is seeking approval for all remaining aspects of the interior renovation of the Welwood Memorial Library. Scope includes all proposed fixtures, equipment casework, chairs, reference counter, lighting fixtures, bookcases, etc), paint, carpet and fabric selections. The only remaining aspect of the library that will be reviewed at a future date will be the landscaping of the site, including the back courtyard. REQUIRED FINDINGS: Pursuant to Municipal Code Section 8.05.190, the Board shall consider the following factors in reviewing and acting upon each application: (1) The historic value and significance, or the architectural value and significance or both, of the structure and its relation to the historic value of the surrounding area, The project proposes all new Interiors for the subject site. The semi-circular front reference counter is proposed with a base of pecan-colored wood veneer reflecting the stain color and shape of the original semi-circular reference counter element that was removed. The recessed toe kick of the original circulation desk is reflected in the design of the newly proposed desk. The desk-height circulation desk counter is augmented 10 Historic Site Preservation Staff Report May 13, 2014 Case 3.1032 MAA—Welwood Murray Library—Interiors Page 5 of 6 with a counter-height, dark walnut-toned wood veneer element that conceals computers and desk clutter. For many of the new reference tables and bookcases, the same dark- toned veneer and stain is proposed. This dark stain color (which the designer states reflect the color of palm tree trunks) does not appear in the photos of the original furniture, and does not seem sympathetic to the lighter "blond" or "pecan" tones that appear to be the common wood theme in the original interiors. The design of many of the proposed tables and cabinetry feature framed doors and end caps with inset panels, metal strips and highlights, metal medallions (circle in four squares) and a shadow line, or reveal around the inset panel. It seems reminiscent of neo-classical or "transitional" furniture detailing and construction. The base of these pieces are chunky with a somewhat wide "base cap", however the casework seen in the original photos either has no base, or was designed with a recessed base or toe kick. The "circle in four squares" motif is used in most of the furniture pieces and the pendant lighting. No such medallions or inlays are seen in the original photos. From review of the older photos of the original library interior, the original furnishings appear very spartan; with clean, smooth lines and streamlined surfaces, free of ornament, inset panels, or other superfluous detail or decoration. Even the large reading tables are very bold in their form, with no overhang between the table top and the apron. The original circulation desk appears to be faced in some sort of fine-grained plywood (possibly mahogany?). (Plywood technologies advanced in the twenties and thirties and many architects at the time experimented with its ability to produce smooth, clean, uniformly grained surfaces.) Thus, while staff believes the proposed interiors are competent in their design, attractive in their detailing and colorful, the condition of approval imposed by the board that the interiors be "sympathetic and sensitive" to the aesthetic of the original is only partially achieved. (2) The relationship of the exterior architectural features of any structure to the rest of the structure Itself and to the surrounding area, John Porter Clark is considered by many to be among the early Modernist architects practicing in Palm Springs. The exterior of the library reflects this modemist label, and exhibits a clean, undecorated, almost raw use of poured in place concrete; leaving the woodgrain of the concrete forms to create surface texture on the exterior. Other than the half barrel clay roof tiles, the exterior is devoid of any overhanging eaves, rafter tails, arches, nooks, or other traditional architectural details. Similarly, the original interiors featured smooth plaster, flat trim and very little ornament or elaborate detailing. As the interior designer notes, Clark even carried this clean, stripped down aesthetic into the lettering of the main entry which is a sans serif type, modern letter style. Thus, while the proposed fixtures, furnishings and equipment do not detract from the architecture of the existing structure, they are more traditional in their detailing, use of ornament, medallions and inset strips of metal, dark stain colors, and panelized end caps and doors. Staff believes the furniture is competently designed, but a more modem aesthetic in the interior furnishings and casework would create a stronger, more 1 � Historic Site Preservation Staff Report May 13, 2014 Case 3.1032 MAA—Welwood Murray Library—Interiors Page 6 of 6 unified relationship between the architecture of the building and the "architecture of the furnishings". There are no other aspects of the current review that affects the exterior of the project. i (3) The general compatibility of exterior design, arrangement, texture and material which is proposed by the applicant, Again, since this certificate request is for the interior only, staff has evaluated the interior design, arrangement, texture and material selections and lighting. As previously noted, the proposed fixtures, furnishings and equipment (FF&E) would be more compatible with the architecture of the building if it were simpler in its detailing, with less ornament, fewer edges and reveals to collect dust, and a lighter stain color. (4) Archaeological or ecological significance of the area. There is no known archaeological or ecological significance to the subject site. CONCLUSION i The proposed interior design is competent, well-coordinated, and carefully detailed. The design of the front circulation desk captures roughly the same footprint and circular shape as that seen in the historic photos. Preservation of the views over the circulation desk to the outdoor rear courtyard from the main entry has been achieved. The designer has created an ornamental motif and symbolism in the casework and pendant light fixtures that is based on translating the four new functional demands of the building into a clever "four squares and a circle". A stronger stylistic reference to the modernist aesthetic of John Porter Clark could be realized in the interior design choices which would strengthen the overall experience of the library. ENVIRONMENTAL Pursuant to the California Environmental Quality Act(CEQA) Guidelines, the project has been determined to be categorically exempt from further environmental review pursuant to Section 15331 "Restoration/rehabilitation of a Historic Resource". Ken Lyon, RA, M. Margo Wheeler, FAICP Associate Planner Director of Planning Services ATTACHMENTS 1. Vicinity Map. 2. Public Comment Letter 3. Interior Designer Narrative and Drawings 4. Historic Photos of the library interior. 12 ©: Department of Planning Services Vicinity Map v 0 z a U J a TAHDVITZ DR E TAHOu CANYON WY rt o z a Q Q Y Q U W U m � a a a z_ Legend ®SITE 1=40U Foot Buffer ARENAS RD Parcels _- ARENAS RD CITY OF PALM SPRINGS CASE NO.: DESCRIPTION: Request for a Certificate of 3.1032 MAA/ HSPB - 3 Approval from the Historic Site Preservation Board by the City of Palm Springs, owner, of the APPLICANT: City of Palm Springs Welwood Murray Memorial Library, a Class 1 historic site, located at 100 South Palm Canyon Drive, Zone CBD. 13 i� 4PALM SPRINGS et PRESERVATION �,. FOUNDATION May 7,2014 Mr. Tom Deleeuw Chair,Historic Site Preservation Board City of Pahn Springs 3200 East Tahquitz Canyon Way Palm Springs,CA 92262 Subject: Welwood Murray Memorial Library Interior Remodel Dear Mr.Deleeuw, The Palm Springs Preservation Foundation is excited that the remodel of the Welwood Murray Memorial Library is upon us! Through lengthy discussions with the Historic Site Preservation Board over the last few years,we commend the city's current plans that speak to the architectural integrity of the building. 3 One concern we do have is the authenticity of some of the interior design elements,specifically the turn of the century Arts and Crafts pattern that is repeated throughout the interior design(to include the desk,the bookshelves and the lighting fixtures). The WMML's original design is clean and unornamented. The proposed design motif is simply inappropriate. Vintage interior photos of the WMML should be consulted and can be found on the PSPF website. i PSPF would like to remind the HSPB that at the November 7,2012 City Council meeting,we offered to help with the desk's reconstruction to include both architectural renderings and financial assistance. We hope that the City still accepts our offer and moves forward with a more historically accurate remodel of the interior. Please do not hesitate to contact the Foundation at 760-837-7117 with any questions. Kind rega s� ZRosenowenow President Copy to:Mayor Pougnet and Councilmembers Foat,Mills,Hutcheson and Lewin 1775 East Palm Canyon Drive,Suite 110-195,Palm Springs,CA 92264 (760)837-7117 • info&spreservationfoundation.org e w .psprese"ationfoundauon.org 14 M E M O k To: Palm Springs Historic Site Preservation Board From: Michael A.Thomas,FASID,CAPS,CASE i Project: Welwood Murray Memorial Library(WMML) Date: May 2,2014 In early March,2014,the Design Collective Group,a Palm Springs interior design firm,was contracted to provide the design programming,interior design and design specifications as a part of the renovation of the Palm Springs Welwood Murray Memorial Library. The initial steps necessary to begin this project focused on the gathering of relevant information that would form the structure for the design and guide the development of the interior.Team partners William Kleindienst,the WMML project architect,Jeannie Kays,the Palm Springs Director of Library Services,AI Smoot,Assistant City Manager of the City of Palm Springs and the museum curators of the Palm Springs Historical Society have all provided insight. With the data provided,it didn't take much time to establish a design vision outlined by five guiding principles that would be referenced in each phase of the design development. Following are the five principles: (1)The design will be multi-faoeted due to support the three stakeholders that will occupy the facility. (2)Design solutions shall be complimentary to the era of Palm Springs and John Porter Clark's design. (3)When practical,solutions shall embrace sustainable design practices. 4)The inspiration for the style,shape,color and form shall be derived from the local environment. (5)The design of the interior and selection of furnishings will be of timeless and classic characteristics yet able to adapt to the future needs of stakeholders and the facility. Following this cover,I have provided more depth information on each of the five principles. I look forward to meeting with the Historic Site Preservation Board(RSPB)and sharing the solutions in person,the design solutions that reference the historic nature of the site and position the W elwood for the future. 15 •Principle 1, The design will be multi faceled due to support the three stakeholders that will occupy the facility. The Welwood will bring together three individual entities and staff under one roof:the Palm Springs Library,the Palm Springs Board of Tourism and the Palm Springs historical Society archives.The interiors have been designed to be supportive of these groups'activities,to present the brand of the Welwood and that of Palm Springs in a positive,distinctive,progressive manner and at all times to consider those who cross the Welwood threshold. As such,the interior design is planned to serve the needs of the three while also addressing the expectations of Welwood guests:the local community,tourists and historic researchers. Building on the past responsibilities of a community library and in looking to the future,the space is expected to support the efficient delivery of four distinct guest benefits: •information, •education, •knowledge,and •research. i Furnishings and fixtures have also been positioned to support that delivery of these benefits while making accommodations for the work of staff and flow of traffic. After reviews of the plans in stakeholders meetings,it is apparent that storage of materials,products and paper supplies,placement of computer printers and point-of-sale equipment,and the public display of items will.be at a premium. To help meet the demand,cabinets have been designed to accommodate as much and I as many of the items as possible.Solutions include providing storage in base cabinets with locking doors,a credenza behind the reception desk for printers and POS equipment and built-in wood framed glass doors for display purposes. While the Welwood is an important Class One historical property,current building codes and the Americans With Disabilities(ADA)have influenced certain design decisions such as the requirement to provide one accessible entrance,an accommodating design for the staff bathroom and the creation of multiple levels of the reception desk. •Principle 2 Design solutions shall be complimentary to the era of Palm Springs and John Porter Clark's design. According to the Palm Springs Historical Society,there are only four"original"photographs of the interior of the library. Later photos published by the Desert Sun add to the data complied about the interior.After reviewing those images,certain design elements became clear that would be incorporated into the new interior plans. The first is that the interior was basic and to some degree institutional. Not surprising considering other late 1930s government buildings featured similar characteristics.Basic ceiling moldings,steel windows, raw concrete floors,exposed pouted-in-place concrete walls could have been included in the design because of cost as well as being somewhat low maintenance.The neighboring Oasis Hotel and the famed Desert Inn were also poured-in place concrete structures. _Certain assumptions can also be made from a review of Clark's architecture style in his other projects. He certainly would have been aware of the"streamline modeme"style that was becoming popular Europe and North America in the 1920s and 30s.While Porter's buildings frequently feature simple,clean often- horizontal fines,the Welwood's Spanish barrel file roof might have been chosen simply to compliment existing building styles in the downtown area. It was also a readily available material that had proven it to be a wise investment due to its ability to stand the test of time. 16 4 To echo the materials used in Clark's design,certain selections have been made that clearly reference his design- Those include the ogee-edged moldings installed on the ceiling as before;the refinishing of the steel window frames in a rusty red color as evident on the exterior;the raw concrete floor to be finished in a manner that shows a thousand foot steps;the"agave green"paint color on the exterior trim repeated in the interior in fabrics;and a finish on much of the existing walls to emphasize the the concrete texture. While it is challenging to identify the wood species used in the interior of the building from black and white photos,a few assumptions can be made. First,a North American hardwood,specifically oak,was the preferred choice for interiors of this era and purpose.And if one considers what remains of the interior as a clue,oak would have been an appropriate material by Clark because of its availability,price and sturdiness. Clearly oak was used for the bookcases and finished without a colorant stain,top coated with a varnish or shellac allowing the natural grain to show thru.Oak used for other purposes like for the reading tables would have been an appropriate choice by Clark.A photograph of one of the original chairs shows they were made from oak. Over time the bookcase finish has oxidized because of naturally occurring and man-made ultraviolet light (UV)light sources.At some point,fluorescent lighting was added to the interior.This choice would have added a significant source of UV light. Current wood colors,depending on the exposure to that UV, sunlight and other naturally occurring elements,range from a typical time-etched color to a worn driftwood appearance,nearly a grey-beige in color.Where UV has been limited,such as along the south wall of the west wing,the woods appear somewhat richer in color. The original curved reception desk was fabricated using two differing materials.The recessed base is likely oak as the grain is evident in photos.Oak may have been the material used for the counter as well since it is a bardwearing material.The vertical face material is hart)to identify.By process of elimination,it can be assumed that it was not oak because the absence of a flamed grain pattern;nor was it a painted finish. Two photos clearly show a vertical face in a contrast from the base and counter,a strong uniformity of visual texture and a bright light-reflecting sheen.This might lead one to consider that if it were a wood,it would have been a straight grain such as ash or poplar and in a brown stain.One other possibility is that it might have been fashioned in a"brown"leather since in one image there is a well-defined"seam"in the face. A new semi-circular reception desk,designed in a non-descript straight wood grain in two colors,a brown and driftwood gray finish will greet Welwood guests.This desk will be adapted to house computers, telephones and pointof-sale. Two differing counter heights,one at 29",the other at 42"above the finished floor will accommodate the needs of the broadest number of people and will address the Federal ADA regulations.It approximates the same footprint,is about the same dimension as the original and will be located in about the same location based on the"ghost prine'on the concrete floor. Photos from the Desert Sun Newspaper indicate the interiors thru the years became a"mix and match"of finishes,woods,colors and fabrics as purchases and/or acquisitions were made. •Principle 3 When practical,solutions shall embrace sustainable design practices. Whether designing a building,remodeling an existing structure or creating an interior,specifying materials that are sustainable by their very nature,by how they are fabricated and by where they are sourced is becoming an industry and professional standard for the architect,builder and interior designer. As for this design firm,this was an important element and would be featured in the selections for the Welwood from the inception and when practical,when cost effective and appropriate. 17 Materials and products which are inherently"green"and sustainable included in the specified design of the Welwood interiors include counters made from recycled papers as furniture and counter tops;recycled- engineered wood as wood grain cabinet finishes and interior lighting using long-life and efficient LED technologies. One goal is the consideration and choice of vendors to supply goods,such as the seating for the community room,determined by being no further than 500 miles from the Welwood location and thus limiting the carbon footprint effects of transportation. •Principle 4 The inspiration jor the style,shape,color and form shall be derived from the local environment. The color scheme being developed for the interior of the Welwood was easy. Just look outside as a source of inspiration. There are three distinct color tones being used in the interior. •The first color significantly references the green accent color found on the exterior of the building.In the absence of a physical sample,one might simply describe the color as"agave green,"a tone that varies from pistachio to cactus. •The second color comes from the brown of a palm tree trunk.Using quarter-sawn oak,engineered wood veneers and laminates,the wood colors are a medium brown color.A similar color can be seen in the bronze-metal of the copper coach fixtures on either side of the Welwood main entry and in the frames of the square,recessed can fixtures over the exterior doors. •The third color comes from the color of the surrounding mountain ranges,what can only be described as a worn,sun-distressed,driftwood grey with a visually textured look,ranging from a mid-value to a deeper gun-metal. Each of these is incorporated throughout the selection of fabrics,finishes and furnishings in varying _ degrees and amounts. As to the style and form of cabinetry,fixtures and furnishings,the choice was easy:simple and clean.The design firm has chosen a chosen strong line that runs repeatedly thin the custom casework. New chairs for the staff and community meeting room were chosen not to compete with more significant elements, In the design of the display cabinets and open bookcases,the thought was to create casework that resembles classically styled furniture pieces rather than recently completed built-ins. Our design features framed wood flat panel-style and glass panel doors,square edged,semi-chunky base moldings on tables typical of the era and bookcases featuring institutional decorative hardware to continue the historic theme while adding to the detail needed for such a project. •Principle 5 The design of the interior and selection offurnishings will be oftimeless and classy-c characteristics yet able to adapt to the furore needs ofstakeholders and the facility. Furnishings and fabrics have been chosen with care.Chairs through out will have mixed coverings,leather- look vinyl patterns for seats,a timeless classic and something that naturally occurs over time in commercial interiors when seats are reupholstered or refinished on an"as needed"basis. When new they may match; over time they don't.The g"signature style"lounge chairs strongly carry the streamlined nature from the 1920s and 30s while providing good,practical seating with little maintenance. The candlestick lamps,made with a plug-in outlet and USB connectivity in the base,reference similar designs frequently seen in libraries all over,from the great reading hall at the New York Public Library to the Rancho Mirage library's reading room. With lampshades made from recycled newsprint,they will become a strong design element for years to come. 18 In order to reinforce and visually emphasize the deliverable guest benefits,a design element has been utilized to give the stakeholders a"brand"statement and is a component included the interior:a circle within a square design(see drawings cover page).Designs such as these are frequently found in the legacies of Native Americans and symbolize the stages of life,as in the evolution of the Welwood from the exclusive use as a library at the beginning to one that is a multi-faceted,multi-purposed facility. Well known examples of similar brand design in similar situations is the"lion in a circle"image for the New York Pubic Library(htr2,L%ww.nvnl.ornl,the"open book"design for the Boston Public Library (htto//www.br)l.ore)and the flag-inspired book for the Library of Congress(htm://www.loc.gov). In the case of the"circle in the square"design,the four guiding principles of•information,•education, knowledge and•research are brought together in one symbol to further the global preservation,protection and heritage of the Welwood. By using a memorable"brand"in the design and displaying it in the interior,in the interior signage,in stakeholder communications and marketing,the result provides guests with a set of consistent visual cues of identity,timelessness and authority.Such designs can also communicate many subtle meanings such as symbolically telling the Welwood's new story,including products and services offered by the stakeholders provided in what is a non-traditional library setting. Interior graphic standards such as signage and way-finding shall be designed in a sans-serif style of font type,one that closely follows the lettering on the outside entry and provides another measure of historic continuity.Identifying this font also provides guidelines for the stakeholders to use in all their printed, visual and virtual communications and once again demonstrates that few details have been left in the past nor left for chance,and thoughtfully moved forward into the W elwood's future. •Conclusions These Welwood design principles have been developed after meetings with many in the community including representatives of all the stakeholders.They have and continue to inform the design as the work to complete the interior moves from concept to specification to implementation.These principles will help guide any changes,adaptations or additions to the facility in the future to keep a sense of continuity. After all,design is never static,should be flexible and as it is for any space,a work in progress. In the words of Melvil Dewey(1851-1931),an American librarian,educator and inventor of the Dewey Decimal System, A library's junction is to give the public in the quickest and cheapest way information, inspiration,and recreation.Ifa better way than the book can be found,we should use it. 19 1 q; F t Y 0 u M Y fX awl` _..,::.� 'e%US..H.i+� Y✓"e'yeM �, _ ...._. i _ nTim .�..,,: , , � , .. n aziTP. ,,.:. -*•;' k S � pII� y � y a i if 1 C ) f s f � �43`MC V�aF � s n �z L p: Y h 1 f r� G « � 2 . � I y r. 4 \ i n 4 F DESIGN P6 " ( IShn SpMps,GA 4++6+ • - • • • Vuw (76o)3u-37K4 Fu: C5&)74S�*, wn.lhd®ICiilmiad:mupwm Wehvoud MumiY Manor W Ijhrm, ILYn SIMnrycG DESIGN BY: FAS[D,GAPS WELWOOD MURRAY MEMORIAL LIBRARY I N T E R I O R D E S I G N P L A N S "A library's function is to giyc the public in the quickest and chcapeast way information, m=ec;gnL drzwuW,m inspiration,and recreation. If a better way than the book can be found,we should use it." ua,n k nl�enTM,ry .illy Dwipi GAocdlxfnup adanoad Frtheexdurc Melvil Dewey 0551-1951) pnrmsh" dv ks Tb � n pnyaeckwwwmm w. American Librarian and Educator mrq%.&Lwdlnut",mpm nilMuc the w.im�a,ree d 1 I DESIGN 71 r .roNPawnr,.,rn�„ a...,r.,a.ro. Vdtc f]laiyLj/By r-: (01)745o361 w.a:Dnign(bllan.tt;ray+.arnn ®® r � psHso>sa � \4'clMad Murray ® S1axn(xial library Palm yxlna*<:1 I PSHSYewing I � Faew.a�PW SmffIGm hm ll>SB r.o a - .ArchNcRma. h smm.. Ol � .PSHS t�.7�lolYe meo.un Displplyay. 7 r `.` SmffMtg R. .News.Mag Bo*a.. t IA.a.yOdee O srnffe.d, O �\ % V �T RmdingT bkl . _________ _____ - .Touri.- .Rdl' ------------- O Via`• IUaek. ® llnitla rWCAtl.N, Opm Sumre. c.M'-Um F. • O - O GRAND HALL we j-D O O OO Maio Fi.vy \� • BOT.S-KHM ll..xd,,gp ra...np..d (bmmunin:U; lim . I labk Rioek.� . arnacrys arc tlk sdc pwxey .d"ITc Ilcign(iJkahe(imup .CIa�Doar Gbxlcb. _ aN vaK Clkm frdw MEL prt�ctah`wc'Ihsda..iryp mnnxl.e.nedmo[hnw.xk I repnxi1 W mmboicU pm ll.e Denim(loot.C(inrup. 24 N O M l Y1..........._.� elD DESIGN' Ion N Pvlm(:anwn lhi.a. SMwvrtam♦�q prim Springs.C:Aq ft . Vain: (760)3u'31g4 J t� �x,�.lk�itim('+JkariveGrwp.uMtt /( • Reception Desk • wchvooaMmmy Mammal uhlmy Ahn Slaltp,G vawaer Wigvn(ivYava Kwap i DESIGN BY: Michael A.Tlwmxs FAST D,GAPS 0 l'pda Upd.5; Manfi toµ 48" d:Ap 9, oy Sglr.ti Uimaviawd ;�_!JC_lt. -+:iu.utAilaW" *"i1Lt L„Slli57t...L .itSarwvd: . . r Da 30" � ' '1Lcwe duitims.draxint,^;aM aata�n art the vtic pnrytem' �`. aM cm-a ul fir the"dusitc use h5 thef;lient mut far the ptnjnx ahme.Tb�ti draxinp a xhe ued .,*hcr wad; _ rnreptrdadinwiasleIxPart 2r without the wtimn mn¢rttd O 'I be Dcmgn GAloodir Gnmp. DESIGN 4 jo.N Pal (:v ,.M,c 2-37164" "" "� lu,5p1Rp.CA Subs Vmm: (760)4Vl-,3N raa: C+�11u5�� x,,,.lkaigl(&m i(aGnmp.a" 2 1/1 2 1/2" z�l/z" Wehr(x)l MurrAy 4� 4" 4" 4 4" Matxxiall.ihrary palm StRinta-(:A 13� PROI ECT ScwAin;Ua1 nn.4.; DESIGN BY: Michael A.Tlxnnas FASIU.CAPS Iktc p; Nanh xoµ Snk:Ji-Onc Faa 3 ® 42 ApRnd: Date 'Ihv+A d(tit�ts,dnwi(1RR and ammj�arc the wk pnlpern' oF711e 13M&M Qlkxdvc G( p and cnatul fir the cxduailr LLY 111'dM.(.ii V�t an�d kw dx: pn*a atxhe.•1 -dmwing, mm*ix.U!w(Xl(M(MT NXwk n rcpnxi.ljnnlwkwpa 27 x idxmt dR:xlimt amwvta( 'Ihc Dm m CoumTile Gnmp. PEI 'S I Gi N r r n i__________, i__________� ii t__________, ii Li ,}r. o,N Yalm(:vmn Omc ShwrtKwln♦,ol Pom Spnngp CA92a6x `--------' `-------—I `---------� r .-------—' ® ii ®®® ii i Vaimd g(o)3u3794 J ji g Li J F'ax: (gfir)745 t w .Dcwgrklcn a ,x(;tmup. Nvdm aid Murrav Memorial Library 44" 1'ahn Slab C:A PROJECT Cwm Stamm JDSK y DESIGN HY: Mkhad A.'Ihomm FASID,CAPS .II iz u as 1 a : 0 Mvdi aai4 4- 1'pdatW:Ajm1JS,aa4 ® ® Efl _. Eo Appnud: lucre dcsigms,dmwings and umog7 ate the w,le pn4x ,d'Ilre Dsign(.ul=ty G: p LLti 1,the Client and fix dx psIMT atn,e.'Ihar dra eittgc M rcFnd inui"e,rpam%idnutnc�xiimLamnwm,f 8 The Deei),m GikLti Gromp. DESIGN -LECTIVE GROUP �t\film f:unm❑riac Snn.n"m.roi pilm tiryings,(_-\9saba Vdoe (760)3--.1794 In: 17a1745b* uww.[1t8iprt:Nlacdac(�mupmn Welwolo blurry Memorial Iitxaty Pnweci ` NmkR'Y Bodasrta 561/z" [LIMA DESIGN BY: i \ � Midrd A.�I1ro1BU FASID,C.APS 7 \\ — ' T -.. -... __. .... Upd :Apulia= Sack Ja"-tlhe F'mt Appn"ai: 4, =3x19� 14x19" 11x dm(,mcdrawingsand umucpt�art the uAc pnrpan' nflha lk gn(41caia G"p and my ,i for dw cxduuxc use tn'the('Iknt mid fru rh- '. Prt7au alar'x."Ihux drawiryp: CNMK hCLL�1� [h4 U'�ai: ,x repxAmed in%flyiem part 29 without the written mnsamt of 'MDaakm 04kxtne Croup. 1DE SIGH GROUP am N PW !us lkli c w..f1Od IIJ.%p q ,",wk Vasa: (760)4u 04 Fsy: (gxl7K.'o3� uuw.l)tsip(C(ikxlisxlinNy,.axn ��'[1WINId MIIITS\' Memorial Lihrat}� Pdm Slefigp.(A Pn O�tC� i ii :I'uai(�� : ii I: n I�ainll II III'i I � �,n I' ��ilii ii ii�l,� I � li� l�i�llll��lill hiv Pall&.tA�cn IIriN ig j 1 DESIGN BY: IIIIIII I11111111111111111111111111111111111 151 '�� � � t I' Michael A 7tvwnas FASID,CAPS 41 D.® Marco.aoy Updamd:Aryl)s,ao(1 Upd.W:Alai,,,aoi4 Appwd Thm-dcvgns.drawings and aNluepen are the sole pltlppt)� of The Design Caaad%rGro p mW m-A dl for dweaa#me use h�the Client and fix the pm*.w aKN c.7h� drawinp tent he usad(n othartr(Nk (x rWnxlcnatd in wholea put '] 0 witMnrthe.rritten ummwnt"f v 'fhe I)�iFm(:(ilecti(x Gnalp. DESIGN pw.d,lwmr..a..�Dm< I I 3 � ', , wnywpcnmra 1 vim: (fio).w.rA• 1 ; �� 11 __ www.Ikaiti�N.Akctile(:nupsml 1 � n R'MML I rxolEcr: 1 Staff Kiochm vl.z ------------J ID5K2.o DESIGN 8r: MKMd A Thomu y�0" 15.,4�4" 12" • West Elevation • FASID,CAPS 14- Sdevi-Us Foot Arymatl: Dut Ll 'ITac daptx dnwityp and ama7+a are dte cnk pmlam' d'Ihe Ik>iiyn(]akaitc(:nwT and rneand kr rile a dwi,r w My ft(-%c.t and far Ik p.*= dnoinN- canmr6eueadmodlaxM �r n.7..k Wi.,0a4,,part • North Elevation ,,Mmtdlewrixcna ,f 'ILe Darpi(:dkane h:lvup. 31 RRRRR - ,I - - ------------ I I DESIGN 6o. 1 i I I I I I Fu. (,0)74SN6i __------ J 1 \� -- i www.D®Ipl(iAlecti\eC:l..pm. \I I � , I 4 CLIENT: ---- NMML 30 PROJECT: LI Stl613ath \'1,; rl/�^ Plan View • IDSK2.o DFSION BY-. • East Elevation MidIx1A 7LBIBr FASID,CAPS Wallcovering Wallcovering �� Wallcovering \ Ilk,i Waa11 \ Upd ,AJ.'7.J. PT App� a4 �y O , G= j n. 1 I � 7,�ne d�gpw,en.WKga aM -- -- ___:. aKn7Rsareele aok Ply.m. N"ITe Dealt(ilNmne(;mup • West Elevation • 6 '"dam�0.d FKthe eadu..e • South Elevation • � Forth Elevation • {�� �KMnI�(a�,K>naru.nl� CNMK AC LL9uI1K1 MR NRIf� �K M1YIYYIPKtI 1.AA'�FaCQ Iplf xith�uc the x-rim�l uK xd "11K Ikipl(:I#kati�e(:rcWp. 32 F'.1.�... 1 t DESIGN 4 . GROUP i �t XPWm m Umr tih—0--3 PahnSpitµ l:Agtabz I � VtllllC: (�)jllylay Fu: (0)745-0d61 rw�e.Desipd'aibtti.il:rtupaan �� VI'dl\rt>,K1\lumt\ Mc(norial Libran d. 1-Jm Spnnt..G% PRWECT F. ph� .Wood Finish(A .Woodl-inish '13 Remlidnn Counter •Awtistic Mralkrnrering . Solar Sitcn Blinds •\\htd.Slatlilinda \lend \.nnr, DESIGN BY: . c MMIAdA.'ILamas 1. .• ��,,•�. U f 1a:. � � fAn- y :knil i6.atµ ylnrnad: OaEe •Staff Bath Tile,Cabinetry,(bunterand\\'allat%cring .ScdfKitchen"file,(:ahinetn,Couti rand\fall Paint .M1 ing Room Hoomwering • Interior Paint FinishvN dcsFtsc dral•alt�aM a'^cRs amtheatkprgarty <tf7hc lkdpt(iicdseGmup and created hx the nclusre use 6r the C1iant and fir the pn)jcx ahrn .7lmv dmninp eannot he ustd on tdkr...Ek m tq.odLmW in wtadc or pan NldN1Y[IM NTtIGT{1114YelIL.t( 33 Thc I?o�ipn(W kxfi,c(;rttup. �r ex EF ° COLLEC7[Vf GROUP DESIGN SMxrrcrai i�v} Pdm Slxiart(:.�9-sGs •Cbmir IIdo i'.. - .Chair(tack, . .... .. - . ...: VOi- (76a)PalG'g4 Fas Q960745-o36, www.DcivCdltcdmGmu p, \Vellwo(d Murray Memorial Library rr . PYm SNMW"G . . -•Chdrscm .. .Chair Swat, 0. Asa.dr IDSK4o •MeChdmfor l aeFfoca*: •Cgemtdty Nt%Tmg,Wxm Chalm+'I*m y _ •Am Chdrsh.r Rt,�rti.m DL4 - l3brun Stif(Ntiu: DESIGN BY: . Michael A.Thomas rlISMd .(7tair 13ad.'s .t'Iwir ltad. f x < Elm .. L_. �,�.��..�� .. . . •<]utir Scats.: .(:IuirSctt, .13ar Stonlfor Smuding'I"able •Watling Taltle .(.nmpu 'faWc' ukChair .. •Avd*v wwing(Iairx 77uvc rlmgs drnr;ngs and . - of-Dtc Design C<sBecmv G,wp and oicand(or the erdusiw by the aim and for the ptnjm aho%� These drawings cmmor be urad oo othcr work or reprrakud in whole orp= without the written ormrncaf The Dwgn(AkcdmGroup. 3 DESIGN i ' pi\Pam Gmxn Dmc tilxmnxm.poi Palm Sprig,CA9 Voiw (776-)321-3784 Fax: 1560-,45b;6i uxtay.D"01 41 a'ti"Croup.umt (I w'cliw(x)d Murm y, Memorial[jlx7ry Q PaunspYnP¢cA r..M \ I'�FSm.cCmoq�c ram_ IDSK 14 DESIGN BY: Mkhad.k Tbon as m wa v i lln G APni t,=14 trPdm:APN7--4 .Concept Design For . tlPdamJ:APdI o,>oiq Candlestick Lamp App,.aa: Dw There des gn&dnuings and a ncepti am the node pn4 of he Domign(:dltttiae Group an .Con tjk51 For d arcuml fw the cduwte ggn use ludic Uirnt andfirthc Pendant Ughting pn>fc¢akrc.'Ih�canuinp; mn"he uaerl on other urak or reprodewd in u1vieor l� \idI tdwKTImT IXI tof 35 the Ikstgo 0ilwixe Group. DESIGN -LECTIVE GROUP p1 N Palm(:mgn Dmc tihmsnam ar1o,1 141m (:.1yxx6s (760)3u r,94 Faz: (yfit1745'Rffit xwx.lkaigtCdlectivdimatpauttt NVeM,o(Id Mumav Menyxial I.ihram �o o Srmth S.w W U'all W.A. IDSfu4 r � � DESIGN ul': % Michael A.111nmas X+' I'ISID,C.XI'S i � r i l .a Drc 0nfvnW14 ('M��Alril a}ao(4 IIII{' APPo.ut Iba: 71av�d(-tilme dnxinF.e and uax>L3xs arc nc�vic prc�m of'Ihe I)"p(Altair Group and mated for the cw1ushx use hs the(Alen and fir the poWa ahnac.7h��draxinFs emnot he used on otha„xwk or ttpndcued in)Aw k or part 36 xitlwwt the wrinen amxmt of "Ilr Ikvgm GAadtc Gnmp. llI , sI( ; \ LLEC71VE GROUP pt N Palm Canyon Dd,c SMnvmnn".3 Pdm S(riigs,(,A,uN Voim (760)3u-3784 Fa: l9�)745b3� M'N W.I3p1Y�11C.nOtYV VQiIn11P1Ytl11 i Wdwood Murry Memorial lihmry c ..dQ PSHS Dimlry Btnhrre IDSI0.3 DESIGN BY: Midwd A.11xmm S4 FASID,CAPS i Dam:6 Mvch.4 Upd—d:Aryl i9.-4 UN—&Aryl?L-4 Saslc:Ji-(1ne FnR � 4 Appvm: H Ibm: These do i mti.dmw inp ani awxgI an:d¢..4cpnxm o!the I3mgn(Aketie(:nup and avmd for dx-lxdwsnv a b3 dwChm and 6x des• pr4mshoe.Thmdm„inp m n:pmdn,ed in n'holc,r part 37 %idn the Timm amxnt of The Design Gdk.Ti,r(:nup. D SIGN pi\1'ilmc:am,n Ihi,c Shm, ♦io3 Palm Springs,c;.-%qnk Yrd� (7�73L-.lilt Fac: 15R,1 ii5-o3A� u+rw.[ksipK iJlaAvd:rcwp.urxn \\Cehtvxxi\lurfaN Jlcmorial librafy Palm Sp ing,CA PPO�ECi I�ka�GLdD , ID610.6 ❑.. . ... ! .. DESIGN BY: son I I �� rnsTFAMichael A.'llxnnas ,,.,,o n.c:\rs rl I ■■ . Eno iY✓{' ■■■ ■■ ■ IMINI son ■ on son Ihm: €a .April xi.say w Sark:✓i-(Ax F'wt ILn: Past Wall Rack South\Vail Rack zW JIYRII C'IlIUfh 4 I D,,,p Ql f141l1eC cIrlilstvlllCrop nl aeW for dccxdushs LL1l hr the Cllmt and for dw ,mmR hI a-,A,w"hL Kirk � � ,w mjm.taud in,vlxdc w part ,virh,wt thc,tritmn mn tof -_. I h,Domkgi ciikAi,c G, wp. s City of Palm Springs *' James Thompson +b.„.o`'� ' Chief of Staff/City Clerk C411FORN,P 3200 E.Tahquitz Canyon Way •Palm Springs,California 92262 I'EL(760) 323-8299•FAX(760) 322-8332•TDD (760) 864-9527 •Web ww Palmspringsca.gov ACKNOWLEDGEMENT OF CITY COUNCIL REVIEW TO: Councilmember Mills DATE: May 13, 2014 RE: Review of the Historic Site Preservation Board Decision This serves as acknowledgement of your timely request, pursuant to Palm Springs Municipal Code § 2.06.030, for the City Council review of the decision of the Historic Site Preservation Board on May 13, 2014, with respect to the Commission's decision to approve the interior design of the Welwood Memorial Library as conditioned. This item will be placed on the May 21, 2014, City Council agenda. Respectfully, CITY OF PALM SPRINGS J ES THOMPSON ief of Staff/City Clerk Post Office Box 2743 • Palm Springs, California 92263-2743 3q �OQ?ALM SAP iy a V N •oena cq�lFORN%P CITY COUNCIL STAFF REPORT DATE: May 21, 2014 PUBLIC HEARING SUBJECT: WELWOOD SUPPLIMENTAL REPORT— ITEM # 1C TO: David H. Ready, City Manager FROM: Special Projects Coordinator The following supplemental information is provided as background for the Welwood hearing: 1. After two unsuccessful attempts to design an expansion of the Welwood Murray Memorial Library (WMML) the City Council directed that the WMML project was to be an interior remodel, staying within the current foot print, no exterior changes and be respectful of the existing historic structure; it was not to be a "Restoration". 2. On November 6, 2012 the HSPB took action to approve the "interior plan" with the condition of returning with colors, materials and furnishings. 3. On November 7, 2012 the City Council approved the interior space plan developed by the new architectural firm. 4. On February 12, 2013 the HSPB was asked to consider appointing a sub- committee of the Board "to review and act on minor running changes that might occur as the project moves forward." The sub-committee has convened on one occasion to review issues in the field. 5. On November 6, 2013 the City Council approved the final plans and specs for bidding and at the time it was reported that landscape and interior design elements were still nor approved by HSPB; that would occur early in the construction process so as to not delay the work. 6. Four (4) of the HSPB Conditions of Approval could result in delays to the project, specifically: a) Medallion/Logo: The logo is shown on the chandeliers and integral to the cabinetry. The light fixtures are long lead items and need to be ordered by the contractor immediately, they need to know if the logo is in or out. The City Council Staff Report May 21, 2014- Page 2 Welwood Murray Memorial Library— HSPB Interior Review shop drawings will soon begin on the cabinetry and they need to know if the logo is in or out. b) Front Desk: The front desk design is critical to the timely progress as the first work will be to cut the slab to install electrical and communication lines, we must know where in the desk these occur. Staff did attempt to take the Preservation Foundation up on its offer but were unable to get timely response from the architect they assigned so staff elected to utilize the interior designer for this work. For this desk to function for the three users multiple computers, printers, telephones, fax machines and cash registers needed to be worked into the design so they could not be seen as one enters the building. c) Wall Covering: The northerly wall in the main room originally had a black board on it and in photos one can see displays of art work there. This wall covering is a material that allows for Velcro to be utilized to hang art work and other displays. The material is also good for the acoustics in a building with big acoustical issues. d) Chandelier: Same as item a) above; long lead item that needs to be selected and ordered. Original photos do show this as a chandelier with a single suspension rod. Jay Thompson From: Jay Thompson Sent: Monday, May 19, 2014 10:05 AM To: Jay Thompson Subject: FW:Welwood Murray Memorial Library HSPB appeal From: Gary Johns [mailto:garyjohns1(cbaol.com] Sent: Monday, May 19, 2014 8:01 AM To: Steve Pougnet; Ginny Foat; Rick Hutcheson; Paul Lewin Cc: David Ready; Margo Wheeler; gandohnsiCcDaol.com Subject: Welwood Murray Memorial Library HSPB appeal Dear Mr. Mayor and council members Foat, Hutcheson and Lewin, I have been advocating for the MMWL since the Summer of 2010. 1 am no stranger to this historic property's path to re-opening. The current appeal, of the HSPB decision, is too similar to the appeal filed in November 2010. That appeal attempted to override the HSPB and alter the building and add an addition. Council upheld the decision of the HSPB and denied the appeal. The current appeal attempts to override the HSPB again but this time for changes to the interior design? Really? I am very supportive of the adaptive reuse of this historic building and applaud the Library Board and the Palm Springs Historical Society for their hard work designing the spatial needs, programs and uses of the building. But the HSPB is your only city board tasked with historic preservation. The HSPB approved the interior design of the WMML, last week, with sane and reasonable conditions. Asking to see a different lamp and a different style of seating is not unreasonable. Requesting that the repetitive decal be removed and that a different style of chandelier be employed is not unreasonable. None of the conditions are unreasonable nor do any of them impede or hamper the progress of the project. It is important to maintain a sense of place inside the building and the conditions go along way to achieving that end. These conditions do not warrant an appeal. Per the staff report for this certificate of approval: Recommendation 2. Bring the exterior landscape plan to the HSPB for approval at a future date is disrespectful of the board. To deny the board review of the interior but seek their input on the exterior (landscaping) is counterproductive of the board's mission. You interview and appoint members to the HSPB for their preservation acumen not because they are botanists. Please uphold and support the HSPB's conditions on this project and deny the appeal. Very Respectfully, 1 f�S�zi�.zAi� rYc�a i , G Gary Johns Gary Johns 2428 South Sierra Madre Palm Springs, California 92264 z Cindy Berardi From: jjohn92263@aol.com Sent: Monday, May 19, 2014 4:01 PM To: CityClerk Subject: Mayor Pougnet regarding Welwood Murray Library. Thank You. Js Dear Mayor Pougnet, I have been following the rehabilitation of the Welwood Murray Memorial Library. I feel that the proposed plans would be acceptable and would honor Welwood Murray wishes. I would appreciate it if you would support the city HSPBs recommendations, so that this project can move forward and the residents & guests to our city can enjoy this diamond in the rough. One more vote and we can put unity in community. Keep up the most excellent work that you and your staff do. I am proud of you all & proud to live in our wonderful city. Kenneth Johnny Johnson Jeffrey Ashcraft 103 Caravan Sahara Mobile Home Park t Cindy Berardi From: Ron Willison <rillison@desertaidsproject.org> Sent: Monday, May 19, 2014 4:15 PM To: CityClerk Subject: Welwood Murray Library renovation Dear Mayor Pougnet and council members, I currently serve as President of the Palm Springs Library Board of Trustees and I also serve as a member of the city subcommittee for the Welwood Murray Library renovation. I want to express my support of the Welwood Murray Library interior design project submitted to the City Council by Michael A.Thomas. The current list of suggestions by HSP are not substantive and lack serious merit.They are really just purely individual aesthetic choices and not relative to the concept for the interiors. If the suggestions by HSPB were necessary to better the design and functionality of the building we would certainly wish to act accordingly. However, HSPB liked the layout,color scheme,furniture design and the design as a whole. These suggestions seem very minor compared to that scope of approval. It really should not be the basis of delaying this project any further than it has already experienced. I urge you to examine the way Michael A.Thomas has combined the history of the Welwood with its need to be once a gain a functional civic space for everyone to enjoy. He has created a warm, inviting environment for guests to enjoy for another 50 years Thank you, Ron Willison Major Gifts Manager Desert AIDS Project 760-323-2118 ext445 760-992-0445 Direct Line 760-218-5080 Cell Phone - rwill ison@desertaidsproiect.ors Desert AIDS Project ,.,K �6P.�t6ZBi Thank you for your generous support of the Desert AIDS Project. R son t Cindy Berardi From: Paul Steinke <psteinke3@yahoo.com> Sent: Monday, May 19, 2014 4:33 PM To: info@pspreservationfoundation.org Cc: CityClerk Subject: Re: Last Hurdle for the Welwood Murray Memorial Library--You Can Help I support the Palm Springs Preservation Plan for Welwood Murray Library -------------------------------------------- On Mon, 5/19/14, Palm Springs Preservation Foundation<info Ca)pspreservationfoundation.org>wrote: Subject: Last Hurdle for the Welwood Murray Memorial Library--You Can Help To: psteinke3@vahoo.com Date: Monday, May 19, 2014, 3:07 PM Newsletter Having trouble viewing this email? Click here Dear Paul, c Last Hurdle for the Welwood Murray Memorial Library--You Can Help www.r)spreservationfoundation.org This Wednesday evening the city council will hear an appeal of the Historic Site Preservation Board's seven recommendations ("conditions") to improve the authenticity of the historic Welwood Murray Memorial Library. The appeal of the HSPB's decision, lodged by a sole councilmember, insists on a "fussy" and inauthentic interior design of the library. Today, PSPF sent a letter to the city council calling for the full council to deny the appeal and support the HSPB. In the letter, PSPF President Erik Rosenow calls the recommendations"thoughtful and reasonable" 1 and urges the council to support the HSPB. HOW CAN YOU HELP? Send an email to the Palm Springs city clerk(by noon this Wednesday) stating "Dear Mayor Pougnet--We are close to an authentic rehabilitation of the historic Welwood Murray Memorial Library, so I ask you to please support the city HSPB's thoughtful and reasonable recommendations so we can finally achieve the result the community expects and deserves." Send your email to the city clerk at citvclerk@palmspringsca.gov. To see PSPF's latest letter (which addresses some of the proposed interior design's miscues) and to read about PSPF's notable successes (and occasional setbacks) in our WMML advocacy efforts,go to http://www.pspreservationfoundation.org/welwood murray.html. (Photo courtesy Palm Springs Historical Society) 1775 East Palm Canyon Drive,Suite 110-195, Palm Springs, CA 92264(760) 837-7117 www.r)spreservationfoundation.org Forward email This email was sent to psteinke3@yahoo.com by info@pspreservationfoundation.org Update Profile/Email Address ) Instant removal with SafeUnsubscribe'" I Privacy Policy. z Cindy Berardi From: Joanne <mrchicobig@yahoo.com> Sent: Monday, May 19, 2014 4:59 PM To: CityClerk Subject: The Welwood Murray Library Dear Mayor Pougnet I am a frequent visitor to Palm Springs, a town so amazing in its preservation of historic buildings and staying true to the original. Living in Scottsdale, Arizona where we bulldoze the town's history to make way for a mall or allow developers to (almost) demolish a Frank Lloyd Wright designed home, I feel that Palm Springs gets it, values its history, knows and embraces its identity. In this vein I am writing to encourage the council to accept the the recommendations of the HSPB to keep to the true spirit of the library and make the interior design authentic, matching the authenticity of the exterior. Please accept the recommendations of the HSP Board and revitalize the library in its original style. Sincerely Joanne Hamilton-Selway Retired Librarian Scottsdale Public Library Scottsdale,AZ 1 Cindy Berardi From: Julie Rogers <Julierogers@dc.rr.COm> Sent: Monday, May 19, 2014 5:21 PM To: CityClerk Subject: Welwood Murray Library Dear Mayor Pounet, I am writing to urge you to heed the thoughtful recommendations of the Historic Site Preservation Board which calls for authentic rehabilitation of the Welwood Murray Library.As a longtime resident of Palm Springs, I believe that the library is an important part of our city's heritage. Let's preserve this valuable piece of history as a legacy for future generations. Sincerely, Julie Rogers A Palm Springs Resident since 1973. r, ;v t PALM SPRINGS l PRESERVATION A11FOUNDATION May 19, 2014 Mayor Steve Pougnet Re: City Council meeting City of Palm Springs May 21, 2014 3200 E. Tahquitz Canyon Way Agenda Item 1.C. Palm Springs, CA 92262 Subject: Welwood Murray Memorial Library Dear Mayor Pougnet, We ask that that you deny the appeal which intends to over-turn the recommendations made by-the city's Historic Site Preservation Board(HSPB) on May 13, 2014. The recommendations made by the HSPB are thoughtful and reasonable. Furthermore, the recommendations speak directly to the importance of the authenticity of the library's original design. The HSPB is consulted regarding the interior design elements of city-owned historic buildings for good reason—in the city process they are frequently the sole advocates for historic authenticity. With so few vintage photographs of the Welwood Murray Memorial Library (WMML) you would think we would be grateful for the few design clues available. However, the opposite seems true. Instead of the elegant, simple, era-appropriate chandelier that appears in vintage photos, we are offered "something else"by the designer. Further, a wholly gratuitous motif, with no historic basis, is integrated into the library design apparently to show us the designer is "designing something." While it is unfortunate that the input of the HSPB on the interior design elements of the historic library were solicited at this late date,that is a failure of the city process, not the HSPB. Though the staff report asserts that"all the stakeholders"were consulted, shouldn't the city's HSPB be given the same deference as any one of these stakeholders? And why were they not consulted? Fortunately,this oversight can be remedied as the HSPB recommendations should not result in any significant increase in the cost of the project nor result in any significant delay. We ask, on behalf of our membership and the heirs of Dr. Welwood Murray, that you enthusiastically support the HSPB's recommendations so that this last piece of an authentic rehabilitation can be accomplished. If you have questions regarding this matter,please feel free to contact us at(760) 837-7117 or info@pspreservationfoundation.org. Kind regar Erik Rosenow President 1775 East Palm Canyon Drive,Suite 110-195,Palm Springs,CA 92264 (760)837-7117 • infonpspresemationfoundation.org • www.pspreservationfoundation.org Cindy Berardi From: Julie Rogers <Julierogers@dc.rr.com> Sent: Monday, May 19, 2014 5:36 PM To: CityClerk Subject: Re: Welwood Murray Library > Dear Mayor Pougnet, > I am writing to urge you to heed the thoughtful recommendations of the Historic Site Preservation Board which calls for authentic rehabilitation of the Welwood Murray Library.As a longtime resident of Palm Springs, I believe that the library is an important part of our city's heritage. Let's preserve this valuable piece of history as a legacy for future generations. >Sincerely, c- >Julie Rogers LL >A Palm Springs Resident since 1973. t Cindy Berardi From: BETH ROSS <sbrwbc@msn.com> Sent: Monday, May 19, 2014 5:58 PM To: CityClerk Subject: Beth Ross: Welwood Memorial Library Dear Mayor Pougnet: Good morning and thanks for your help with this historic precious Palm Springs landmark. We are so very close to an authentic rehab of this beautiful library. I ask you to please help and support the city HSPB"s recommendations to achieve proud results. The value of history is important to Palm Springs. Let's help save what we have. Thank you for the care and support of this icon. It is a tribute to the past and it needs to be honored. Respectfully and with thanks, Beth Ross Phone: (760) 574-4343 r 1 Cindy Berardi From: nixonsf@aol.com Sent: Monday, May 19, 2014 6:39 PM To: CityClerk Subject: Welwood Murray Library Dear Mayor Pougnet: Since I moved to Palm Springs almost five years ago I have lamented the fact that the Welwood Murray Library building has been closed. It is a priceless example of Palm Springs architectural heritage and sits on one of our most important downtown corners. It is encouraging to see renovations begin but we have one opportunity to get it right and make it as authentic as it can be and should be. I urge you to support the recommendations of the HSPB regarding certain critical elements of the restoration. The buildingdeserves to be brought back to it's original minimalist glory; I believe the HSPB 99 ry, is right in requesting these minor changes. Sincerely, James C. Nixon nixonsf(c)aol.com 1 Cindy Berardi From: Ty Geltmaker <echobamboo@roadrunner.com> Sent: Monday, May 19, 2014 7:45 PM To: CityClerk Subject: Wellwood Library HSPB Mayor Pougnet & City Council Members, Please move forward with the recommendations of the HSPB regarding the Wellwood Library building. Ty Geltmaker, Ph.D. & James Rosen 172 E. Palo Verde Ave. Palm Springs, CA 92264 v� i Cindy Berardi From: Brian Eberhart <bdeddspc@aol.com> Sent: Monday, May 19, 2014 8:17 PM To: CityClerk Subject: Welwood Murray Dear Mayor, Now isn't the time to reinvent the wheel. Please use the original interior design cues from the library. Preservation is so important to this community.The original design will be timeless and correct for the exterior facade.A new design will look very 2010's in fifteen years.The Palm Springs community has so many resources for these type of projects, I recommend that the experts at the HSPB and PSPB be utilized. Please keep this project pure to the spirit that is rebuilding this city. Support the recommendations of the HSPB. Respectfully, Brian Eberhart Sent from my Wad - r 1 Cindy Berardi From: Joan Gand <jgand@gand.com> Sent: Monday, May 19, 2014 11:08 PM To: CityClerk Subject: Welwood Murray Memorial Library Dear Mayor Pougnet, We have always enjoyed the beautiful exterior of the Welwood Murray Memorial Library as part of our downtown streetscape. It is such an asset to Palm Springs. We hear that we are close to an authentic rehabilitation of the interior, so we ask you to please support the city HSPB's thoughtful and reasonable recommendations so we can finally achieve the result the community expects and deserves. Sincerely, Joan and Gary Gand n= 1 Cindy Berardi From: jim harlan <jimharlan@aol.com> Sent: Tuesday, May 20, 2014 7:43 AM To: CityClerk;jimharlan@aol.com Subject: welwood murray memorial library city clerk: please include following in the packet for the city council meeting hearing regarding the James R. Harlan, Architect 432 South Monte Vista Drive - Palm Springs, CA 92262 310-306-4936 May 19, 2014 Dear Mr. Mayor, Re: Welwood Murray Memorial Library Desk I'm Jim Harlan, a trained architect, and I serve on the board of Palm Springs Preservation Foundation. I'm also the PSPF board member assigned to the reconstruction of the reception desk for the Welwood Murray Memorial Library. As you may recall, PSPF offered to assist in the design of the desk and also to fund the construction. I am honored to be assigned this task as I hold much affection for the Welwood Murray Memorial Library—affection I'm sure you feel also. I was dismayed to read on page 3 of the staff report that the "work" on the interiors of the Welwood Murray Memorial Library was finished and an implication that PSPF was partially to blame for the lack of progress of the reception desk. The specific implication was that I was failing to meet some timelines and requirements for the design of the desk therefore the task was assigned to the recently hired designer. Just to clarify: - I attended several meetings/"explorations" at the library in 2013 - I attended one meeting with Al Smoot and the head of the library in February 2014, - After the February 2014 meeting, there was no follow-on communication from anyone associated with the library's rehabilitation(staff, local architect, designer, etc.) and hence no information provided to me regarding timing, urgency, etc. There was apparently a serious miscommunication here. I have already produced a rough CAD drawing of the desk and hope to fulfill the generous offer made by PSPF to reconstruct the reception desk. I happily noted that one of the HSPB's recommendations was to have the project manager re-engage PSPF regarding the desk and I enthusiastically stand ready to devote the necessary time and effort. I Sincerely, James R. Harlan Architect james r harlan architect www.iamesrharian.com 2 Cindy Berardi From: mbwehrli@aol.com Sent: Tuesday, May 20, 2014 7:57 AM To: CityClerk Subject: Regarding the Welwood Murray Memorial Library - Do the Right Thing Dear Mayor Pougnet - At the center of downtown Palm Springs there is a treasure that deserves your attention and support. We are close to an authentic rehabilitation of the Historic Welwood Murray Memorial Library, so I ask you to please support the city H5PB's thoughtful and reasonable recommendations so we can finally achieve the result the community expects and deserves. Please do the right thing now. I am counting on you, Mary Brent Wehrli Palm Springs Cindy Berardi From: mitchell cowley <mitchellcowley@gmail.com> on behalf of 4REAL <mitch@4real.ty> Sent: Tuesday, May 20, 2014 8:56 AM To: CityClerk Subject: The Historic Welwood Murray Memorial Library. Importance: High Dear Mayor Pougnet, We are close to an authentic rehabilitation of the historic Welwood Murray Memorial Library, so I ask you to please support the city HSPB's thoughtful and reasonable recommendations so we can finally achieve the result the community expects and deserves. For the sake of time... I will shorty state that in my travels (I fly approx. 50 flights a year, 2 per month to PSP) I am always meeting people who love Palm Springs and the focus of the conversation always leads to architecture. Palm Springs is one of the most architecturally important cities in the US, and some international travelers would say 'the world'. The future of PS is preserving its past. As the city moves past the decades of developers deciding what would be good for the city's future, it will realize that preservation will be the most important investment the city of Palm Springs has ever made. Thank you, Mitch Cowley Mitch Cowley 720.83B.9693 - Mitch @4r eat tv u U rm 1 Jay Thompson From: Jay Thompson Sent: Tuesday, May 20, 2014 9:37 AM , + ', To: Jay Thompson Subject: FW:Welwood Murray Memorial Library Interior Design Plan From: Fred Jandt <FJandtna csusb.edu> Date: May 19, 2014 at 5:10:32 PM PDT To: David Gray <daveprmarketing( gmail.com>, Steve Pougnet <Steve.Pou ngnet@palmsprin sgs-ca.gov>, Paul Lewin<Paul.Lewinkpalmsprings-ca.gov>, Rick Hutcheson<rick.hutchesonkpalmsprings-ca.gov>, Chris Mills <Chris.Mills(o),palmsprings-ca.gov>, Ginny Foat<Ginny.Foatna palmsprings-ca.gov> Cc: Allen Smoot<Allen.Smoot(i,yalmsprings-ca.gov>, Harry Courtright <Harrycourtright35@pmail.com>, Jeannie Kays <Jeannie.Kays(a palmspringsca.gov>, Linda Futterer <homtakgearthlink.net>, Ron Willison <rjwxp(a�aol.com> Subject: Welwood Murray Memorial Library Interior Design Plan Dear Mayor Pougnet and City Council members Foat, Hutcheson, Lewin, and Mills, As a new member of the library board of trustees I did not participate in the early days of the planning for the renovation of the Welwood Murray Memorial Library. I have, however, participated in the new plans for the interior design. As I understand the objections, some are asking for a more more "restoration" look. I have discussed this with Janice Lyle, a former member of the library board and former director of the Palm Springs Art Museum and now director of Annenberg Sunnylands. Janice explained that in renovations it is not preferred to recreate the original furnishings, rather the preferred method is to create new furnishings "in the style of the original." She explained that this is done for several reasons--one of which being that if the originals are recreated, visitors assume they are the originals. Secondly, the originals are rarely serviceable for today's needs. I trust Janice's experience because as you know she completed the restoration of the Annenberg estate. Michael Thomas has presented a design that acknowledges the history of the Welwood and at the same time made it functional for today's use. I would urge you to accept the design and move forward with the project. Fred Jandt i Jay Thompson From: Jay Thompson Sent: Tuesday, May 20, 2014 9:37 AM J r r, J i To: Jay Thompson Subject: FW:Welwood Murray Memorial Library Interior Design Plan From: David Gray <daveprmarketing(&gmail.com> Date: May 19, 2014 at 4:09:50 PM PDT To: Steve Pougnet<Steve.Pougnet@palmsprings-ca.gov>, Paul Lewin<Paul.Lewin@palmsprings- ca.gov>, Rick Hutcheson<rick.hutchesonkpalmsprings-ca.gov>, Chris Mills <Chris.Millskpalmsprings- ca.gov>, Ginny Foat<Ginny.Foat(a-),nalmsprinps-ca.gov> Cc: Allen Smoot <Allen.Smoot(akpalmsprings-ca.gov>, Fred Jandt<fjandt(a csusb.edu>, Harry Courtright <Harrycourtright35na gmail.com>, Jeannie Kays <Jeannie.Kaysna nalmspringsca.gov>, Linda Futterer <homtaknearthlink.net>, Ron Willison<rjwxp4aol.com> Subject: Welwood Murray Memorial Library Interior Design Plan Dear Mayor Pougnet and City Councilors Foat, Hutcheson, Lewin and Mills: As your are well aware, I have been working with all of you since 2009 to reopen the historic Welwood Murray Memorial Library downtown. We are now almost there having the interior plans approved by the City Council, along with construction having started. Unfortunately, we did not have approved interior design plans approved when the construction bids went out. However, we currently have a wonderfully designed interior for the FFE's designed by Michael A. Thomas that the Board of Trustees chose to work with the architect. His superior plan for the furnishings and finishes were unanimously approved by the Welwood Murray Memorial Library City Subcommittee, the Board of Library Trustees, Library Staff, and the Palm Springs Historical Society. Unfortunately, four of the five members of the Historic Site Preservation Board, have some disagreements with this design, and requested seven conditions at their meeting last week. All of these are disagreements are aesthetic with the HSPB wanting a more "restoration" look versus a "renovation" which is what was the city's, board's and library staff s direction. I would ask that you not further delay this project and approve the interior design as currently submitted. Thanks Cordially, David L. Gray, Trustee Palm Springs Public Library Board of Trustees i Palm Springs, California 617-784-3819 cell www.daveprmarketing.com www.facebook.com/izrayi)r @daveprmarketing 2 Jay Thompson From: Roxann Ploss <riploss@gmail.com> <: Sent: Tuesday, May 20, 2014 1:09 PM To: Jay Thompson; Steve Pougnet; Rick Hutcheson; Ginny Foat; Paul Lewin;Chris Mills Subject: The Welwood Murray appeal Good evening, Mr. Mayor and the members of the City Council, At the HSPB meeting on 13 May 2014, the members went over each page of the proposal and sketches very carefully. The members noted that former Mayor Kleindeinst's re-configuration of the Welwood Murray interiors was laudable for its obvious respect for the building itself coupled with the demand to meet the changing needs of the library. After the presentation,the individuals on the Board expressed their concerns with the interior design which did not seem to do either of the above. The overuse of an emblem everywhere, either in the form of a decal or of etched glass, detracted from the elegantly stark lines of the building. The front desk appears multi-leveled with squared edges, not at all the softening qualities exhibited by the original. The furniture was heavy on the chrome and light on the wood-y look of libraries of that period. The acoustical carpeting on the walls seemed also curiously out-of-place. The desks and lamps were far more reminiscent of the Metropolitan Library of NYC than of the desert (a point, indeed, referenced by the designer in his presentation).The overhead lighting detracted from the interior design of the building. It lacked simplicity, using multiple'stems', interfering with the sense of space. Copies of the original hanging lamps are in just about any restoration catalogue, easily acquired. Long ago,the HSPB appointed a sub-committee to work with the renovation team in order to expedite any changes on the drawing board. Mr. Kleindeinst called those three members to view the exterior changes he was recommending; all went smoothly. That was the last time the subcommittee was included. The potential HSPB input was totally ignored. This appeal might easily have been avoided. In our opinion, none of the conditions the HSPB proposed (and voted upon unanimously) would have slowed the project in any way. In fact, we encouraged the team to go ahead with the re-configuration of the building according to Mr. Kleindeinst's plan as soon as possible. We asked that things be eliminated, not added,thus not forcing any delays. The Palm Springs Preservation Foundation has offered to duplicate the front desk at their own expense thus potentially saving the City several thousand dollars. Eliminating the decals and etched glass would also be a money-saver. Changing out custom-made light fixtures for something readily available(AND historically correct) is more cost-efficient. Switching out furniture and lamps would likely be a 'draw'. The HSPB has been consistent over several years in its view that the Welwood Murray,the downtown's literal centerpiece, should reflect the history of the town,the importance the Villagers put on books and education despite being strapped for money and materials. Clark's original design reflects the latter but the currently proposed interior designs seems to ignore both. I ask the City Council to deny the appeal but to encourage the contractors to go ahead with the structural changes as quickly as possible. The interior designs and layout of furniture could also continue 1 expeditiously by assigning the desk to the PSPF, eliminating the extraneous decal motif and ordering already-existing lamps and furniture. Thank you for your time. Roxann Ploss member of the RSPB Roxann Ploss Palm Springs, Ca. "You cannot maintain a soul of a community if you detach it from history." Dani Dayan 2 Cindy Berardi From: Arianne Keens <akeens@sbcglobal.net> Sent: Tuesday, May 20, 2014 3:31 PM y To: Steve Pougnet; CityClerk Cc: Ginny Foat; Rick Hutcheson; Paul Lewin; Chris Mills Subject: Welwood Murray Memorial Library Dear Mayor Pougnet, RE: Welwood Murray Memorial Library (Class 1 Historic Site) As a Palm Springs citizen, educator, and architectural bus tour guide during Modernism Week, I am writing to ask you to support the Historic Site Preservation Board's thoughtful recommendations for the sympathetic interior restoration of the historic Welwood Murray Memorial Library. This Palm Springs landmark is the oldest intact civic building in the city and it deserves to be carefully restored as one of the many jewels which adorn the city's mid-century architectural crown. The value of doing a restoration with minimal impact on the original interior is that it preserves a significant piece of the Mid-Century Modern design for which Palm Springs is internationally known. Thousands of visitors from all over the world come to Palm Springs, especially during Modernism Week in February, to appreciate its large concentration of amazingly intact Mid- Century Modern architecture, and this includes the Welwood Murray Memorial Library. Palm Springs is, in essence, a time-capsule of architectural history, so why not educate our public with authentic, original architecture?Visitors come to the city to see original, preserved examples of architecture, not inaccurate embellishments which destroy the original character of the buildings. The city has an ideal opportunity to accomplish a first-class restoration of this architecturally significant building, one which will be historically accurate and will educate our public about Palm Springs and its unique architectural heritage. I would like the council to uphold and support the Historic Site Preservation Board on their recommendations for a historically accurate interior rehabilitation. I would also like to thank the city for giving me this opportunity to express my concerns regarding the interior restoration of the Welwood Murray Memorial Library, a Class 1 Historic Site. Sincerely, Arianne Keens t Cindy Berardi From: Barbara Stanford <bastanford49@hotmail.com> Sent: Tuesday, May 20, 2014 3:29 PM To: Steve Pougnet; Ginny Foat; Rick; Paul Lewin; Chris Mills Cc: CityClerk Subject: Please approve the Welwood Plan as presented To the Honorable Members of the City Council: As a member of the Board of the Friends of the Palm Springs Library, I would like to ask for your vote to approve the current design plan created by Michael Thomas, as it was presented. I feel that the proposed plan will be a lovely and positive enhancement to the Welwood. I'm confident that its soothing color scheme and finishes, its ergonomically appropriate furniture, and the enhanced lighting will be both functional and well received by the community. At the time the Welwood was built, construction funds were very tight; therefore, amenities that we take for granted today, i.e. air conditioning, heating and overhead lighting, were sacrificed -- deleted -- in order to provide instead for a dedicated children's wing. That said, I am not sure that we, the City, would wish to emulate the original interior design plan/decor, in that it was created on a bare bones budget - by necessity. I really do hope that you will approve the plan as presented by Michael Thomas. Thank you for your consideration. Barbara Stanford i Cindy Berardi From: Jennifer Dorn <dnjdorn@yahoo.com> Sent: Tuesday, May 20, 2014 3:51 PM To: CityClerk Subject: Welwood Murray Memorial Library Preservation Dear Mayor Pougnet-- I have recently joined the Palm Springs Preservation Foundation as I have been disappointed over the years of owning property in Palm Springs at how un-involved the city seems to be at times in being a champion for our history in preserving our architectural treasures. My understanding is that you are close to an authentic rehabilitation of the historic Welwood Murray Memorial Library, so I ask you to please support the city HSPB's thoughtful and reasonable recommendations so we can finally achieve the result the community expects and deserves. I understand that change is good but please not at the expense of losing our sense of history. Thank you for your attention and considering supporting preservation whenever possible with our historical footprint. Regards, Jennifer Dorn t Cindy Berardi From: Steve Warden <steverave@yahoo.com> Sent: Tuesday, May 20, 2014 5:55 PM ( U To: Cindy Berardi Subject: Re: Library building Opps.Sorry. I just wanted to let the mayor know I support the PS Preservation Societies vision of the library building. I am a 3 rd generation Palm Springs person and one of the things I love and that separate us from the other desert cities is our village atmosphere. Thank God for an organization like the PS preservation society that cares and gives us a voice to try to keep Palm Springs unique, celebrate and preserve our past while allowing Palm Springs to be a small town with big cities amenities Steve warden Sent from my iPad >On May 20, 2014, at 4:45 PM, "Cindy Berardi"<Cindy.Berardi@palmsprines-ca.aov>wrote: >Your email had no content. > Cynthia A. Berardi,CIVIC > Deputy City Clerk >City of Palm Springs > P. O. Box 2743 > Palm Springs, CA 92263 > (760) 323-8204 > (760) 322-8332 fax > > Please note: City Hall is open Monday-Thursday 8:OOam-6:OOpm, and we are closed on Fridays. >-----Original Message----- • From: Steve Warden [ma ilto:steve rave @vahoo.com] >Sent:Tuesday, May 20, 2014 4:06 PM >To: CityClerk >Subject: Library building >Sent from my iPad 1 Cindy Berardi From: rinatom@verizon.net Sent: Wednesday, May 21, 2014 7:15 AM To: CityClerk Subject: Welwood Interior Dear Mayor Pougnet--We are close to an authentic rehabilitation of the historic Welwood Murray Memorial Library, so I ask you to please support the city HSPB's thoughtful and reasonable recommendations so we can finally achieve the result the community expects and deserves."The Library is a treasure to the entire valley. Please allow a thoughtful restoration. Palm Springs is the caretaker for so many of the historic places in the Coachella Valley. Pamela Troxel rinatom@verizon.net t Cindy Berardi From: lynnedevries75@gmail.com Sent: Tuesday, May 20, 2014 9:07 PM To: CityClerk Subject: Well wood Murray Memorial Library To the Council: Ever since I started coming to Palm Springs in 1975, (1 now own a property and spend 6 months a year in PS)) I have loved the Welwood Murray Library. It had always been the symbol of the center of the city for me. My hope for the restoration is that it will be as close as possible to the way it was. Many people will enter the new renovation,and it is a perfect place to showcase early Palm Springs' history. I hope the Council will vote for an authentic redo of that wonderful landmark. Lynne de Vries Canyon Vista Drive Palm Springs Sent from my iPad 1 Cindy Berardi From: Cathy Brant <cpbrant@earthlink.net> Sent: Wednesday, May 21, 2014 7:38 AM To: Steve Pougnet; Ginny Foat; hutcheson@palmsprings-ca.gov; Paul Lewin; Chris Mills Cc: CityClerk; bastanford49@hotmail.com; Cathy Brant; ChrisIn312@aol.com; etcbooks@verizon.net;Jacqueline Wachs;Jeannie Kays;Jim Hicks;Julie Warren; Linda Futterer, Marie Weigel; MET4WGO@dc.rr.com; Nanci Morrison; Ralph Thornton; Richard Ellis; shba123@gmail.com; SMoneenG@aol.com Subject: Please approve the Welwood Plan as presented To the Honorable Members of the City Council: As a life-long resident of Palm Springs, I fully concur with the comments of Barbara Stanford. When I was in high school during the 1950's,the Library was the only place in town where we could meet friends, research for papers, do homework,and just read. It was a quiet, comfortable place away from the noise and bother of school and younger siblings. It was relevant to our lives then,and the plans you have already approved recreate that usefulness while adapting to the needs and tastes of library users today. The renovated library will be welcomed by visitors and locals alike as a place to meet friends, research the Internet and the Historical Society archives, and just read. Times have changed but the roles of the Library have not. It is not a museum but can still be a working library. We should not try to mimic the past. Thank you, Cathy Paul Brant President, Palm Springs High School Alumni Association President, Friends of the Palm Springs Library c t Cindy Berardi From: Judith Butler <butlermountainprod@pacbell.net> Sent: Tuesday, May 20, 2014 8:47 PM J To: CityClerk Subject: PS Memorial Library Dear council members Our family is very excited to see the downtown library reopened .The HSPB plan for the library Fits best with the historic preservation of the building. & I urge you to take the recommendation of the Palm Springs preservation group in accepting this plan Judith B Lacy Palm Springs Sent from my Whone 1 Cindy Berardi From: DPO <donsprings@verizon.net> Sent: Tuesday, May 20, 2014 8:31 PM To: CityClerk Subject: Welwood Murray Memorial Library Dear Mayor Pougnet: We are close to an authentic rehabilitation of the historic Welwood Murray Memorial Library, so I ask you to please support the city HSPB's thoughtful and reasonable recommendations so we can finally achieve the result the community expects and deserves. I grew up using this library and want it to remain true to it's original design. Thank you, Donald O'Loghlin 196 E. Morongo Road Palm Springs, CA 92264 t Cindy Berardi r From: Bonnieruttan <bonnieruttan@aol.com> Sent: Tuesday, May 20, 2014 7:38 PM To: CityClerk Subject: Well wood Memorial Library Dear Mayor Pougnet Please support the city HSPB's recommendations to improve the Wellwood Memorial Library Thank you for your consideration Bonnie Ruttan 1111 Abrigo Rd PS. 92262 Sent from my iPad 1 Cindy Berardi From: Barbara Marshall <atomicbee57@yahoo.com> Sent: Tuesday, May 20, 2014 7:19 PM To: CityClerk Subject: Support for HSPB's WMML Recommendations Dear Mayor Pougnet, During my service as a member of the city's Historic Site Preservation Board the Welwood Murray Memorial Library was a topic of much discussion so I have followed this latest turn of events---the HSPB's conditions and the resulting appeal---with great interest. While I find all of the HSPB's recommendations constructive, the one I have to wholeheartedly agree with is the recommendation that the silly "circle in square" motif be eliminated. The proposed motif, which apparently is going to pop up throughout the library (i.e., walls, desk, etc.), has no historical basis. Having recently researched the Class 1 Historic Site nomination for the Dougherty Residence I re-acquainted myself with the work of architect John Porter Clark. During this period in Clark's career he was embracing a spare and unornamented modernist style. Clark's spare and unornamented style was not a mistake nor an oversight---it was intentional and deliberate. The proposed design is not John Porter Clark and by extension is not the Welwood Murray Memorial Library. read with some amusement that the designer wants to "brand" the WMML. It's always a big red flag when a designer has to take several paragraphs to "explain" a design. The WMML has a unique history and identity that should be embraced---it doesn't need to be branded like a chain restaurant. Please support the HSPB's recommendations. Kind regards, Barbara Marshall t Cindy Berardi r� From: arleneclanton@yahoo.com Sent: Wednesday, May 21, 2014 10:02 AM ; J To: CityClerk Subject: Welwood Murray Library Dear Mayor Pougnet, As a member and docent of the Palm Springs Historical Society, I would like to see the refurbishing of the library be as sensitive and as historically accurate as possible. I am hoping that your council will support the suggestions presented to you by the HSPB. Thank you for your consideration. Sincerely, Arlene Clanton t Cindy Berardi From: Mike and Bill <met4wgo@dc.rr.com> Sent: Tuesday, May 20, 2014 9:58 PM 2i? I To: CityClerk Subject: Wellwood Murray Library Dear Mayor Pougnet and City Council Members, As Treasurer of the Friends of the Palm Springs Library and one of the original panel members of the search party for architects during the first design of the site (I think it was in 2009?) 1 want to say that I would like you finally put this project to sleep. This has be hashed over so many times and delayed over and over again. Please take a stance an get this done as it is presently designed! Remember the old saying"you can't please everyone". I am also a volunteer at the Palm Springs Historical Society and I know first hand how much they need the space that is offered at the Welwood. I personally feel that this is the main reason that the building should be finished as soon as possible. It will be a wonderful source for tourist information and a link to the library but the archival space that they have know is a joke and so much more can be accomplished by these talented people if you give them the chance to expand. Please move forward and not let this latest issue delay the opening next Fall Thank You, Michael Thompson 1 Cindy Berardi From: Michael Baker <mbakerfl@me.com> Sent: Wednesday, May 21, 2014 11:46 AM L To: CityClerk Subject: Welwood Memorial Library.... Getting back into town, I thought I better say what I have to say. While I appreciate the Preservation Board's mission, I think that they have missed out on an opportunity to contribute to a meaningful repurposed Welwood,To even reference the interior of the original library as that which should be attempted to be replicated is questionable . From the few pictures I have seen (and I don't think that there are many to begin with)the interior was austere and rather cheap looking.The light fixture that was in the picture I saw was woefully under scaled, and not considered of much use considering the fluorescent lights that had to put in at a later date.The interior in fact looked as it had been rather thrown together quickly.The only piece that looked as if it had some design thought behind it was the reception desk, though I guess it wasn't particularly highly thought of because it is not around any more. I look at the current design and see a thoughtful approach to the function for the many users that will be utilizing the space, a furniture and color palette reflective of the pre-war era, and with a nod to the future.And while the provincial nature of the Welwood can be appreciated, it in fact will become a meeting place that visitors from around the world will come to and hopefully leave with a better appreciation of what Palms Springs was and will be in the future.Thank you for your VOTE AGAINST THE CONDITIONS. M. Baker 1 Cindy Berardi From: Florence Klaasen <caflogo@aol.com> Sent: Wednesday, May 21, 2014 11:02 AM „ To: CityClerk Subject: Welwood Murray Library Mayor Pougnet, Please support the HSPB thoughtful and reasonable recommendations for renovation of our library so we may gain the results we are expecting to achieve. florence and William Klaasen 1 Cindy Berardi From: Michael A. Thomas <mat@psdesignoffice.com> Sent: Wednesday, May 21, 2014 11:59 AM To: CityClerk Subject: Welwood Murray Memorial Library To The Mayor and City Council of Palm Springs: When a small business, corporation or government agency or other entity contracts with a consultant, it is because of a need for specific experience and education. Desired results include the acquisition of knowledge, data and details in order to make informed decisions. But without investigating the reasoning and rationale behind those decisions, much can be lost in the translation. Such is the case with the conditions of approval of the Welwood Murray Memorial Library interior design plans made last week by the Historic Site Preservation Board in their meeting. While the five members reviewed in earnest public comments, and then discussed their personal preferences about the design, they failed the City of Palm Springs by not taking advantage of the interior design consultant sitting at their table. As an example, one HSPB board member stated he personally didn't like the wall covering chosen for two areas of the interior. Another said she thought the selection was for carpeting. Had they questioned the designer about such a selection, they would have discovered that the choice was made with purpose: to enhance acoustics; mimic the color and texture of the library's original poured-in-place concrete walls; and would provide a surface that would hold up to hard use the library staff indicated in the designer's interviews with library staff. The discussion of the HSPB indicated a desire to have a reception desk that looked as it did in the photos of the library. The designer's drawings clearly indicate the general shape of the original form remains the same. However had there been any reviews with the design professional, they would have discovered that two levels of work surfaces are necessary for staff and guests and for the placement of computer and office equipment. In addition, the new design must now comply with the American Disabilities Act(ADA). A member of the HSPB asked that the pendant light fixtures be suspended from a stem rather than guide wires. If they had quizzed the designer, they would have been referred to drawings submitted to them that clearly indicate the fixtures are to be on a stem and mounted from the ceiling. Small gauge wires just above the large domes are for the purpose of balance. During the HSPB meeting, there were individual comments by the Board about the number, the design and the concept of the task-type candlestick lamps. Had the board members asked, the designer would have explained the fixtures were positioned at critical locations, were inspired by the classic nature of typical 1940s fixtures and have lamp shades made from recycled newspapers and old books, a nod to the Welwood's original function. It was the also desire of the HSPB to have seating as seen in of the old library photos. The original chairs made of oak with a hard seat and splat back detail, were purchased from a manufacturer of such institutional seating and not designed by the hand of the original architect, John Porter Clark. If the HSPB had inquired, they would have learned that various seating choices were specified to be low maintenance, have extended and/or lifetime warranties, capable of being stacked to fit a very small footprint in the community meeting room and serve the evolving needs of the stakeholders. They would also have been 1 informed that the designer has included strategies to use a variety of"green design' principles including the selection of vendors who are in close proximity of Palm Springs, and thereby reducing the carbon footprint. It is, however, the design of a symbol, a "circle in the square" symbol that seems to have been the most controversial. One comment said that the design was too mid-century modern. The Palm Springs Preservation Foundation called it inappropriate to a desert modern style. But the design consultant wasn't provided with an opportunity to explain the purpose and use of such symbolism. The"logo"was derived from an ancient tribal symbol and in some Native American culture represents the evolution of man, much like the evolution of the Welwood. This adapted design represents the four design principles to be delivered by the three stakeholders: information, education, research and knowledge. The symbol is to be used discreetly to reinforce the"brand," communicate graphically the library's new function and provide a memorable image to those that cross the library's threshold. As the council considers the next steps and approval of these plans, keep in mind that in each case, the design professional followed the sage advice of architect Louis Sullivan when he stated a century ago that effective design solutions are made only when "form follows function." Choices made on behalf of the library and of Palm Springs were carefully thought out solutions, ones that would be functional while reflecting both the multi-purpose of the facility and the progressive nature of city. Respectively submitted, Michael A. Thomas, FASID, CAPS The Design Collective Group, Inc. dba/Design Pure And Simple Interior Designer for the Welwood. 2 Dear Mayor Pougnet We are close to an authentic rehabilitation of the historic Welwood Murray Memorial Library, so I ask you to please support the city HSPB's thoughtful and reasonable recommendations so we can finally achieve the result the community expects and deserves. This public comment was received from the following individuals: Sharon Greco Ros Rootes Tony Vaccaro Norman Balkin Henrik Rasmussen Michele Johnson Bruce Benzler Tom Camase Lynda Jarman Dr. Robert Maietta Garth G. Gilpin Debra Hovel Dan Wylie Roxanna Khan J. Dunawa Bill Lewallen Kathie von Ankum Robert Warden Douglas Huth Jessy Moss Kevin& Kerstin Stenlund Ellen Donaldson John Gaurino Jacques Caussin David Kearney --5� �)zLe-&tt. u/ As some of you may know I am the Chair of the Historic Site Preservation Board, but today I am speaking as an interested citizen. Each member of the HSPB has been carefully interviewed and appointed by council to be your advisers on matters of historic preservation within the City of Palm Springs. On May 13,the proposed interior finishes for the Welwood Murray Memorial Library were brought to the HSPB for their approval. The board,after much discussion, unanimously approved the proposal as presented with a few exceptions. The 1941 library is an important representation of the great community pride in the newly formed city. The residents and civic leaders actually chose to build a library before they had a city hall;they chose a well accomplished and respected local architect who was responsible for both the structure and finishes for the building. The result is a simple and charming composition that has performed its duty for many years. With the new duties that have been assigned to the building, I hope that the same charm can be seen;that the respect for the community of the early city and the respect for the work of John Porter Clark can still be with us. I request that council appreciate the advice provided by their appointed advisers on the HSPB and respect their advisors judgment in recommending a treatment sympathetic to the original interior of the WMML and continue that civic pride of our early city days.