HomeMy WebLinkAbout75A - 2221 N. HELIOTROPEREQUEST FOR
COUNCIL ACTION
CITY COUNCIL MEETING DATE:
CLERK OF COUNCIL USE ONLY:
DECEMBER 1, 2003
TITLE:
PUBLIC HEARING - APPEAL NO. 2003-07
PLACING THE PROPERTY LOCATED AT
2221 NORTH HELIOTROPE DRIVE ON THE
SANTA ANA REGISTER OF HISTORICAL
PROPERTIES AND CATEGORIZING AS
APPROVED [] As Recommended
[] As Amended
[] Ordinance on 1st Reading
[] Ordinance on 2n~ Reading
[] Implementing Resolution
[] Set Public Hearing For
FILENUMBER
RECOMMENDED ACTION
1. Deny Appeal No. 2003-07.
2. Adopt a resolution approving Historic Resources Commission
Application No. 2003-30.
3. Adopt a resolution approving Historic Register Categorization No.
2003-34.
Historic Resources Commission Action
Adopted a resolution approving Historic Resources Commission Application
No. 2003-30 and Historic Register Categorization No. 2003-34 at its
October 2, 2003 meeting by a vote of 7:0 (Chinn and Bustamante absent).
DISCUSSION
Rec~uest of A~licant
Mr. and Mrs. Quang Kieu, the owners of the Maharajah House, request
denial of the Historic Resources Commission Application No. 2003-30
placing the Maharajah House on the Santa Aha Register of Historical
Properties and Historic Register Categorization No. 2003-34 classifying
it as Landmark. Mr. and Mrs. Kieu submitted a letter of appeal (Exhibit
1) on October 13, 2003 stating their reasons for declining the register
listing. Their request to appeal the Historic Resources Commission
decision is based on 1) their letter dated October 2, 2003 requesting the
Commission continue the placement and categorization of the Maharajah
House for 3 months and 2) their desire to redesign the architectural
}style of the structure to eliminate the chronic roof leak and subsequent
interior damage.
Page 61 75.A.
Appeal No. 2003-07
December 1, 2003
Page 2
Analysis of the Issues
A Floral Park historic resource survey, conducted by architectural
historian Leslie Heumann, identified 25 significant historical properties
as candidates for placement on the Santa Ana Register of Historical
Properties. The subject structure located at 2221 North Heliotrope Drive
was one of these properties. This structure meets the minimum selection
criteria for inclusion on the Santa Aha Register of Historical Properties
as it is over 50 years old and exemplifies the Moderne style, which
flourished during the 1930s through World War II but is now rare in Santa
Ana (Exhibit 2). The house was designed by Balboa architect Donald Beach
Kirby and constructed in 1938 by Allison Honer. It has also been placed
on the Register for its historically significant association with the
Maharajah of Indore India, who was the hereditary ruler of a central
Indian state and reputedly one of the richest men in the world at the
time. The Maharajah House has been categorized as Landmark category
because of its historical/cultural significance to the City as a "castle'
for a sitting ruler and for its unique architectural significance as an
exceptional example of the Moderne style, one of the best in Orange
County. As indicated in Exhibit 2, all original exterior features of the
Maharajah House are considered character defining and should be
preserved.
Prior to the City initiating the placement of the this structure on the
Register, courtesy letters were mailed to the affected property owners
inviting them to attend a special presentation on March 8, 2003
explaining the implications and benefits of being placed on the Santa Aha
Register of Historic Properties. Several months later at the Historic
Resources Commission hearing on August 7, 2003, the property owners, Mr.
and Mrs. Kieu expressed their opposition to placing their home on the
local Historic Register. Prior to receiving the historic listing request
from the City, the owners were considering a proposal to change the
architectural style of the house in order to mitigate a chronic roof
leak. Specifically the owners were considering changing the classical
flat roof to a pitched roof with Mediterranean features. Listing the
structure on the local register would prevent the owners from
inappropriately changing the defining features of the architecture, such
as the roof. The Commission continued action on this item to allow time
to evaluate the condition of the roof and explore potential solutions.
On September 4, 2003, Commissioner Lutz reported to the Commission that
after meeting with the property owners and investigating the roof leakage
problem, a feasible solution could be implemented without altering the
existing roof design. The Commission voted to continue the project until
their October 2, 2003 meeting to allow Mr. and Mrs. Kieu sufficient time
75.A.
Page 62
Appeal No. 2003-07
December 1, 2003
Page 3
to research their options. However, Mr. and Mrs. Kieu elected to not
attend the October 2, 2003 Commission meeting but submitted a letter
requesting the Commission continue the item. At the October meeting, the
Commission expressed their concerns with the deteriorating condition of
the Maharajah House and its vulnerability for inappropriate style
modifications. Based on these concerns and the remarkable historic and
architectural significance of the house, the Commission approved the
placement of the Maharajah House on the Santa Aha Register of Historical
Properties and categorized it as Landmark.
Therefore, it is recommended that the City Council uphold the decision of
the Historic Resources Commission and adopt the resolutions approving
Historic Resources Commission Application No. 2003-30 and Historic
Register Categorization No. 2003-34.
Environmental Impact
In accordance with the California Environmental Quality Act, the
recommended actions are exempt from further review. A Categorical
Exemption will be filed for this project.
Deputy City Manager
Development Services
LP: rb
bp\Historic\HRC Staff Reports\RFCA' s\Maharajah House Appeal
Page 63 75.A,
II
Octtober 1 O, 2003
I1is¢0fie Resourcns Con!mission
.~> of Santa
Public llearir~g august 7, 2003
DELIVERED
Dear Chairamri & Commissioners,
We receiver todaY., a letter informinc,o about 5'o n' deeNi,m at the hearJog oil October 2, 03 to list om' house as a
historical strne£tlre, despite our request of October 2 for deferral ai~d conGmanee.
~1 ~s is ¢: fen iai ~,pic.,al m d~ abeve decision because of the fbi/owing reasons:
of the first floor. Despite rnultiple repairs aud extensive efforts, the problem continues to progressivcly
infiltrate the structure. We have presented testimony at the August 7~' hearing, with pictures and
ebronology of repairs ewer the last 15 years of owinershJp.
2. We have been visited by Ms. Melanic McCauu with a roofing consultant specializing in fiat roofs,
however his bid of $25,000 offered oaly a 5-year warrmrty. This does not appear satisfactory solution.
3. Subsequent to the August 7a' heariag, 2 members of the commission offered their assistance, and
personally examined our problem areas. They promised to identlf) contractors with the necessary
expertise. We are still waiting for the referral.
4. We filed for a new roof ill April, well before the proposed classification, yet were denied, repo~edly
because of staff intention.
We are willing to accept a reasonable roofing bid to attempt to preserve the fiat roof integral to present style.
However until we feel reassnred w/th a sturdy roof, we need to reserve tile right to consider any solution which
wilt save the structme. To force ant famiIy to live in anxiety and discom~bix is the greatest violation ofonr
righ-ts. Moreover if we cannot proceed with the repairs which will save the structure, the house ultimately will
crnmbte away. With the historical laudmark classificatiou, does the city itwcst in repaMng tile building? Or is it
still tile responsibility of the owner?
Your consideration of the above is respectfully requested. Should you maiatain your decision in the absence of
satisfactory poteutial solution to our current problems, we would have to recourse to any available means to
protect our property and personal rights, including a legal challenge.
Sincerely,
Chou & Quynh Kieu
Homeowners of 2221 North Ile!iotrope drive, Santa Aha, CA 92706
(714)641-0850
75.A.
EXHIBIT 1
Page 64
'EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
THE MAHARAJAH HOUSE
2221 North Heliotrope Drive
Santa Aha, CA 92706
NAME Maharajah House I REF. NO.
ADDRESS 2221 North Heliotrope Drive
CITY Santa Ana ZIP I 92706 [ ORANGE COUNTY
YEAR BUILT 1938 LOCAL REGISTER CATEGORY: Landmark
NATIONAL REGISTER CRITERIA FOR EVALUATION [ B,C NATIONAL REGISTER STATUS CODE I 3S
Location: [] Not for Publication [] Unrestricted
[] Prehistoric [] Historic [] Both
ARCHITECTURALSTYLE: Modeme
The Moderne style encompassed the Modemistic, Streamlined Modeme, and Art Modeme variants. An evolution of the Art Deco
style, the Streamlined Modeme flourished during the 1930s and lingnred through the decade following World War II in a simplified
vemion. In contrast to the verticality of earlier Art Deco designs, the Streamlined Modeme emphasized the horizontal, through bands
' of windows, use of decorative raised or incised horizontal lines, railings, flat canopies with banded fascia, and narrow coping at the
· roofline. Other characteristics include smooth wall surfaces, usually of stucco; metal detailing; glass block windows; rounded
~gmers, porthole windows, and asymmetry. Incorporation of aerodynamic, transportation related imagery, especially nautical, is a
nature of the style. In common with the Streamlined Moderne, Art Modeme buildings also tended to be horizontal in emphasis, but
tended to be more clean-lined and rectilinear in their massing and detailing than their streamlined counterparts. Art Modeme designs
can be recognized by their flat roofs, smooth stucco exteriors, and use of metal casement windows that often meet at the comers of the
building.
SUMMARY/CONCLUSION:
The Maharajah House appears eligible for listing in the National Register of Historic Places and the California Register of Historical
· Resources. It also qualifies for listing in the Santa Aha Register of Historical Properties under Criterion 1, for its exemplification of
the Art Modeme variant of the Modeme style, and under Criterion 4b, for its association with a foreign ruling family, the Holkars of
lndore, India. The house also contributes to the historic character of the Floral Park neighborhood through its age, style, scale, and
historic associations with prominent residents. Additionally, the house has been categorized as "Landmark" for its unique
architectural significance as an example of the Art Moderne variant of the Moderae style and its historic/cultural significance to City
as the "castle" of a sitting ruler. (Municipal Code, Section 30-2.2).
EXPLANATION OF CODES:
· National Register Criteria for Evaluation: (From Appendix 7 of Instructions for Recording Historical Resources, Office of
Historic Preservation)
B: that are associated with the lives of persons significant in our past.
that embody the distinctive characteristics of a type, period, or method of construction, or that represent the
work of a master, or that possess high artistic values, or that represent a significant and distinguishable entity
whose components may lack individual distinction.
National Register Status Code: (From Appendix 2 of Instructions for RecordingHistorical Resources, Office of Historic
Preservation)
3S: Appears eligible for separate listing.
EXHIBIT 2
1 of 5
Page 65 75.A.
Primary #' I
HRI #
State of Califomia -- The Resources Agency
DEPARTMENT OF PARKS AND RECREATION
=RIMARY RECORD
Trinomial_
NRHP Status Code
Other Listings
Review Code Reviewe[
Page I of 4 Resource name(s) or number (assigned by recorder) Maharajah House
Pt. Other Identifier:
*P2. Location: DNot for Publication IUnrestricted *a. County Orange County
*b. USGS 7.5' Quad Date:
*c. Address 2221 North Heliotrope Ddve City Santa Ana
*e. Other Locational Data: Assessods Pamel Numbec 002-081-45; TR 1036 Lot: 18 and Lot: 19
Zip 92706
*P3a. Description: (Describe resource and its major elements. Include design, materials, condition, alterations, size, setting, and boundaries.)
Located on a double lot on the southeast comer of Heliotrope Ddve and Santa Clare Avenue, the Maharajah House is a two.
story residence representative of the Art Moderne vadant of the Modeme style. A fiat roof accented by a thin band at the
roofline tops the "7'" shaped building, which is finished in smooth stucco. Walls extend to the north and south to enclose
gardens and patios. The massing ~f the structure suggests an assemb~age ~f cubic v~~umes and re~ects the in~uence ~f the
emerging lntemational Style of architecture. The northwest and southwest comere of the second story of the facade are cut
away, creating terraces that ara seamlessly integrated into the massing. Horizontal lines am emphasized through the roofline
banding, similar banding around the terrace parapets, and architecturel details such as window gdlles and canopies. A
notable feature, and one highly characteristic of the style, is the use of multi-light metal casement windows that wrep the
comers of the building. Located at the approximate center of the facade and flanked by pilasters scored to resemble
masonry, the tripartite entry is deeply recessed and decoreted in an intricate, geometric pattern. An alle~ of palms is paved
in stone and spans the deep front lawn from the sidewalk to the entrance. On the north elevation, painted wrought iron gates
shield the garage. On the south, a bronze equestrian statue is just visible behind the garden wall. In excellent condition, the
property is substantially unaltered on the extedot~
*P3b. Resource Attributes: (list attributes and codes) HP2. Single-family Property
*P4. Resources Present: IBuilding E]Structure [3Object [DSite E]Distdct ElElernent of District DOther
P5a. Photo PSb. Photo: (view and date)
South and west elevations
Apd12003
*P6. Date Constructed/Age and
Sources: ahistoric
1938/Source: City of Santa Ana
Building Permits
*P7. Owner and Address:
Chan O & Ouynh Kieu
2221 North Heliotrope Ddve
Santa Ana, CA 92706
*P8. Recorded by:
Leslie J. Heumann
I SAIC
35 S. Rayreond Ave. # 204
Pasadena, CA 91105
*P9. Date Recorded:
May 25, 2003
*PLO. Survey Type:
intensive Survey
*Pll. Report Citation: (Cite survey report and other sources, orenter'none")
None.
*Attachments: E3None E]Location Map E3Sketch Map mContinuation Sheet BBuilding, Structure, and Object Record
DArchaeological Record E]District Record [3Linear Feature Record [3Milling Station Record DRock Art Record
7 _~if~ct~rd r3Photograph Record r't Other (list)EXHIBIT 2
*Required
information
v ,. · Page 66
State of California. The ResoUrces AgenCy Primary #
DEPARTMENT OF PARKS AND RECREATION HRi~
I BUILDING, STRUCTURE, AND oBjECT RECORD
Page ~2 of 4 *NRHP Status Code 3S
*Resource Name or #: Maharajah House
BI. Historic Name: Maharajah House
B2. Common Name: Same
B3. Original Use: Single-familyResidence B4. Present Use: Single-familyResidence
*BS. Architectural Style: Modeme
*B6. Construction History: (Construction date, alterations, and date of alterations): Constructed in 1938-1939.
December 14, 1938. 12 room frame & stucco residence and garages.
May 6, 1941. Reroof.
March 15, 1955. Swimming pool.
May 24, 1955. Cabana for swimming pool.
January 24, 1989. 6'high bolock wall.
July 21, lg93. Add 2 bedrooms and I bath, 319 square feet.
September 15, 1997. Reroo~
*BT. Moved? INo ~3Yes r~Unknown Date: Original Location:
*BB. Related Features:
Garage, garden walls, mature landscaping, statue if original.
Bga. Architect: Donald Beach Kirby
b. Builder: Allison Honer
*BI0. Significance: Theme ResidentialArchitectura Area Santa Ana
Period of Significance: cima 1888-1953 Property Type: Single-family Residence Applicable Criteria: B, C
(Discuss importance in terms of historical or architectural context as defined by theme, period, and geographic scope. Aisc address integrity)
The Maharajah House is architecturally significant as an exceptional example cf the residential use of the Art Modeme
vadant of the Modeme s~yle, one of the best in Orange County. It is historically significant for its association with the
Maharajah of Indora, the hereditary ruler of a central Indian state and reputedly one of the dchest men in the wodd at time.
Designed by architect Donald Beach Kirby of Balboa, the house was built in 1938-1939 by prominent Santa Ana contractor
Allison Honer for $40,000 according to the building permit, although the local press reported the cost of construction as
$50,000 and of the furnishings as $150,000.
(See Continuation Sheet 3 of 4.)
Bl1. Additional Resource Atttibutes: (List attributes and codes)
*BI 2. References:
City of Santa Ana Building Permits
Santa Ana History Room Collection, Santa Ana Public Library
Sanborn Maps
(See Continuation Sheet 4 of 4.)
B13. Remarks:
*B'I4. Evaluator: Leslie J. Heumann
*Date of Evaluation: May 25, 2003
(This space reserved for official comments.)
Sketch Map
2221 NORTH HELIOTROPE DRIVE
EXHIBIT 2
3 of 5
75.A.
Page 67
State of California --- The ResOu~eS Agency
CONTINUATION SHEET Trig°miaI
Primary #
HRI#
Resource Name or # (Assigned by recorder) Maharajah House
*Date May 25, 2003 [] Continuation [] Update
Page 3 of 4
*Recorded by Leslie J. Heumann, SAIC
*B'I0. Significance (continued):
Even before the house wes constructed, Yeshwant Rao Holkar, the Maharajah, had captured the public imagination.
Educated at Oxford, the Maharajah had been traveling in the United States in 1936, had taken ill in Los Angeles, and had
been nursed by Marguerite Lawler Branyan, an Amedcan divorcee. They marded in 1938, following the death of the
Maharajah's first wife in 1937. In seamh of a safe haven pdor to the beginning of Wodd War II, the Maharajah decided to
settle his young daughter, P#ncess Usha, and his new wife in Santa Ana. The large home, one of several owned by the
Maharajah, was protected by high walls and by interior and extedor gates. According to one account, the Maharejah's
instructions to Allison Honer, the prominent Orange County builder who lived across the street from the property at 615
West Santa Clare Avenue, were to build a modem, but not too severe refuge. Lavishly appointed, the house contained, in
1986 when it was the International Society of Intedor Designers Orange County Chapter Design House: three bedroom
suites, eight bathrooms, four fireplaces, a grand foyer, spacious living mom, formal dining room, library, solarium, kitchen,
butler's pantry, pool house (added later), servants' and guards' quarters, and an attached garage.
Said to be a progressive ruler who instituted many reforms, the Maharajah had governed Indore since the abdication of his
father in his favor in 1926. The Maharajah and his Amedcan Maharani returned to India following an only one-year
residence in the house, leaving Pdncess Usha in the care ora governess in Santa Ana, where she continued to attend
public schools. The pair divorced in t943. The Maharajah marded again, to another Amedcan, who bore him four children
including a male heir, but Pdncess Usha, as the only offspdng bom of an Indian woman, succeeded her father as ruler in
1961 following the death of her father. Marguerite, who also remarried, remained in the house until 1952. As of 1994,
according to one account (Marsh), Pdncess Usha occupied one of the Holkads hereditary palaces in India, although, other
information ('lndore: The H~~kar Dynasty~~) indicates that she was stdpped ~f her rank and tit~es by the ~ndian stete in 1970
The Maharajah House is located in Floral Park, a neighborhood northwest of downtown Santa Ana bounded by West
Seventeenth Street, North Flower Street, Riverside Ddve, and Broadway. Groves of oranges, avocados, and walnuts and
widely scattered ranch houses characterized this area before 1920. Developer and builder Allison Honer (1897-1981),
credited as the subdivider and builder of a major portion of northwest Santa Ana, ardved in Santa Ana from Beaver Falls,
New York in 1922 (Talber~, pages 353-356). "Before nightfall on the day of his arrival, Mr. Honer purchased a parcel of land.
And that month, he began building custom homes in Santa Ana" (Oren~Te Countv Reoister. September15, 1981). The
parcel chosen became the Floral Park subdivision between Seventeenth Street and Santiago Creek. '14/hen built in the
1920s, the FIoral Park homes were the most lavish and expensive in the area. They sold for about $45,000 each' (Orange
~ountv Reoister. September 15, 1981). Revival architecture in a wide vadety of romantic styles was celebrated in the 1920s
and 1930s and Floral Park showcased examples of the English Tudor, French Norman, Spanish Colonial, and Colonial
Revival. The Allison HonerConstructlon Company went on to complete such notable projects as the 1935 Art Deco styled
Old Santa Ana City Hall, the El Toro Marine Base dudng Wodd War II, and the 1960 Honer Shopping Plaza. Honer lived in
the neighborhood he had helped to create, at 615 West Santa Clare Avenue.
In the late 1920s and 1930s, another builder, Roy Roscoe Russell (1881-1965), continued developing the groves of Floral
Park. An early Russell project was his 1928 subdivision of Victoda Drive beb/veen West Nineteenth Street and West Santa
Clare Avenue. The homes were quite grand and displayed various revival styles, including Russell's own large, Colonial
Revival mansion at 2009 Victoda Drive. In the early post Wodd War tt years, Floral Park continued its development as
numerous, smaller, single-family houses were built. Continuing in the Floral Park tradition, they were mostly revival in style.
In the 1950s, Iow, hodzonfal Ranch Style houses completed the growth of Floral Park. Today (2003) Floral Park maintains
its identity as the premier neighborhood of Santa Ana, historically home to many affluent and prominent citizens.
The Maharajah House appears eligible for listing in the National Register of Historic Places and the California Register of
Historical Resources. It also qualifies for listing in the Santa Ana Register of Historical Properties under Criterion I for its
exemplification of the Art Modeme vadant of the Modeme style and under Criterion 4b for its association with a foreign ruling
family, the Holkars of Indore, India. Architecturally, the house is distinguished by its scale, massing, horizontal lines, use of
characteristic features such as comer casement windows, and its fortress-like quality. The house also contributes to the
historic character of the Floral Park neighborhood through its age, style, scale, and histodc associations with preminent
residents. Additionally, the house has been categorized as "Landmark" forits unique architectural significance as an
example of the Art Medeme variant of the Medeme style and its historic/cultural significance to City as the 'castle" of a
sitting ruler. All original exterior features of the Maharajah House are considered character defining and should be
preserved. These features include, but may not be limited to: materials and finishes (stucco, wrought iron); roof
configuration, materials, and treatment; massing and composition; entry, doors and windows; terraces and walled gardens;
architectural detailing (banding, window grilles, canopies, entry surround); chimneys and fireplaces; attached garage;
original landscaping; and any original interior materials, spaces, finishes, and furnishings.
75.A.
Page 68
State of California -- The ResOurces Agency Primary # ~
., --~,.~..-,~DEPARTMENT OF PARKS AND RECREATION HRI #
J CONTINUATIUN tiHEET Trinom,a,
'Page 4 of 4 Resource Name or # (Assigned by recorder) Maharajah House
*Recorded by Leslie J. Heurnann, SAIC *Date May 25, 2003 {~] Continuation [] Update
*B12. References (continued):
Hards, Cydl M. American Architecture: An Illustrated Encyclopedia. New York, WW Norton, 1998.
Marsh, Diann. Santa Ana, An Illustrated History. Encinitas, Hedtage Publishing, 1994.
McAlester, Virginia and Lee. A Field Guide to Amedcan Houses. New York: Alfred A. Knopf, 1984.
National Register Bulletin 16A. ~How to Complete the National Register Registration Form." Washington DC: National
Register Branch, National Park Se[vice, US Dept. of the Interior, 1991,
Office of Histodc Prase[vation. "lnstructions for Recording Histodcal Resources." Sacrarnentc: March 1995.
"Alison Honer Dies at 84,' The Santa Ana Journal, September 21, 1981.
"Builder of Honer Plaza Dies," Orange County Re.~ister. September 15, 1981.
"History of FIoral Park." http.Y/www, floral-park, com/page2, html
Talbert, Thornas (editcr-in-chief). Historical Volume and Reference Works Including Bioqraphical Sketches of Leading
Citizens~ Volume I. Whiffier, Histcdcal Publishers, 1963.
Pleasants, Mrs. J. E. Histo[v of Oranc~e County. California. volurne 3. Los Angeles: J. R. Finnell & Sons, 1931.
Orange County Diractodes, 1928-1952.
Dodd, Richard H. =Art Modeme Style: Fit For a Pdnce.' Oranqe County Home, Volume 4 Nurnber 5, May 2003.
Farrar, Robert S. ~ln the Days of the Maharajah... Santa Ana's Stoq/book Romance." Oranqe County Illustrated, October
1972.
"india Princess. 5, Will Have a $50,000 Horne in Santa Ana.' Los Anqeles Examiner, December 16, 1938.
~Maharajah's $50,000 Palace to be Built in Santa Ana.' Santa Ana Daily Reqister, December 15, 1938.
"V/hera a Maharajah Lives in California." Los Angeles Tirnes. August 4, 1940.
International Society oflntedorDesigners Orange County Chapter. "Design House 1986." Brochure.
"lndora." www. rnahara/a.freawe[ve.co, ulVindora, htrnL
"lndora: The HolkarDynasty." w~wv. draarnwale~nel/regiment/RoyalArk/India/indore4.htm.
"Once upon a time in Indora.' www. radif~com/election/1999/sep/15column, htm.
P5b. Photograph: North and west elevations, April2003.
DPR 523L
EXHIBIT 2
5 of 5
Page 69
75.A.
August 6, 2003
Historic Resources Commission
City of Santa Aha
Public Hearing august 7, 2003
Dear Chairman & Commissioners,
We are honored that staffhas recommended our property for classification as a historical Landmark.
However we have lived in the house for 15 years and have suffered major discomfort and cost associated with
chronic roof leakage. Following is a brief summary of the problems:
-House was purchased in 1988 at~er a complete renovation in 87 when the property was featured as "designer
house" of the year.
-1990 roof and balconies leaking resulting in medium repairs or the eastside balconies and living room ceiling.
-1991 total collapse of a comer of the ceiling in the kitchen and garage. Major repaim to deck, ceiling and
replacement of rotted beams.
-1992 ceiling in the living room collapsed partially (1/3), new roof done with 5 years guarantee.
-1995 leakage around chimneys, ceilings in master bathroom and library, kitchen and garage damaged. Decks
above the kitchen and garage were completely resurfaced.
-1996, 1997, 1998 leaking from east side balconies, ceilings of living room and kitchen during each rainy
season, requiring repairs each time.
-1998 eastside balconies major repair: balconies are enclosed with new lightweight roofing material, 4 new posts
are built to strengthen balconies. A new roof is built on top of old flat one.
-despite the repaim, for the last 5 years, we continue to have leaks in the living room, family room upstairs, in
the kitchen and garage.
The above chronology cannot adequately describe our problems: damage to the structure, staining and damage
to the furniture and content, children falling and tripping from the wet floors. Every rain brings anxiety and
apprehension and membem oftbe family spring to action, carrying containers, pots and pans to place under
leaks. Worsening cracks and constant dampness of the ceiling are threats of total collapse of the house structure.
In addition our parents decided to move out because of poor insulation with overheat during the summer and
cold in the winter.
Because of the unbearable burden and the considerable costs, we decided to build a new pitched roof with red
tiles, and plans were submitted by our architect 4 months ago in March. The planning agency denied permit
because of the planned classification as historic property. Ms McCann associate-planner at the agency agreed to
come and evaluate our situation, and brought a roofmg specialist. He recommended a new flat roof guaranteed
for 5 years at the cost of $25,000, half of the cost ora new pitched roof which represents a permanent solution.
We oppose the classification as proposed because it would preclude us from making the needed improvements
to salvage the house. Flat roofs are problematic, and Frank Lloyd Wright houses are well known as maintenance
nightmare because of leaks...We are including pictures showing the condition of the ceiling in the living room
and the kitchen at~ar the recent rain, despite multiple repairs, and the posts we had installed to prop the balconies
for fear of collapse. The recommendation is interfering with our rights to a safe and comfortable home.
We urge the commission to remove the 2221 North Heliotrope residence from the list of properties for
classification as historical structures.
Sincerely,
Chan& Quynh Kieu
Homeowners of 2221 North Heliotrope drive, Santa Ana, CA 92706
(714)641-0850
75.A. Page 70
Recent living room ceiling damage
Extensive repair from previous ceiling collapse
(ceiling covering could not be matched)
Recent kitchen ceiling damage (breakfast area) Kitchen ceiling recent repair at beam
Unsightly posts built to prevent balcony collapse
Page 71
75.A.
Decenlber 1,2003
PAK WIF_ST
F~o \V ~cm It Might Ctmcern:
Re: _~l N Heliotrope
Appeal No. 2003-07
T ,:v/il he suable to attend the Cib, Council meeting on Monday, December 1, 2003 but have
vcdm~t,-u-iIy contacted the Kle~a s to offer ~U' suppcrct
I must admit that 1' am nol well educated on tile advantages a.nd disadvantage~ of having a
baJlding listed on the Historical Regis~y nor ~ I awm-c of who makes fl~e decisio~t ~d the
criteria tsed for making thc dec/s/on But it is my undeistm~d/ng flint lhe cu~ent issue is thc ack
~[ability m cb~ge ~ roof on the e~s~ag residence at 2221 N Hcliotrop~ -- it is cun'enlly fla~
and creams problems A flat roof on a bus/ness requkes extensive dr~nage and maintenaqc ~ so
it is alii}Scull Io tmders~d why ~ individual would be requ~ed to m~rain a flat roof on '~
rcsidcncs Older homes have problems v,,i0~ wat~' damage, lemks, etc and I sro ~urc ~haI a flu:
70o[ would require exteusiw maintenance and would increms= the poten~al f;~r warc~ dam~=:, cid
x'.t. ~d other problems.
Please c~msider tiffs letter ~s support For *,he appeal It is assumed that au>' chrmges would be
aI*Frovcd by the appropriate depamneuts at. ~he city so that changes would be monitured I'n tle
36 ycm-s that 1- have lived on Helintrop~ D~ ive: I have witnessed many changes to the ~csidcrt. zt: at
2221 tteliot~ope DHve trod even fi-,ou~: it was once owned by the Maharajah. it has never, to my
knowledge, been wewcd by the "old timers" er long time residents of S~ta Aha a~ an historic
kuiki;mg whose roof line must be mamtnmed.
5macrclv.
Blower Dempsay
75.A.
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TO GOVERNMENT CODE § 6103
RESOLUTION NO. 2004-003
Koo 12/29/03
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF
SANTA ANA PLACING THE PROPERTY LOCATED AT
2221 NORTH HELIOTROPE DRIVE ON THE SANTA ANA
REGISTER OF HISTORIC PORPERTIES AND PLACING
WITHIN AN ESTABLISHED CATEGORY (APPEAL NO.
2003-07)
BE IT RESOLVED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SANTA ANA AS
FOLLOWS:
Section 1. The City Council of the City of Santa Ana hereby finds, determines
and declares as follows:
On August 7, 2003, the Historic Resources Commission held a duly public
hearing to place the property located at 2221 North Heliotrope Drive on
the Santa Ana Register of Historic Properties and to categorize the
property as Landmark.
During the hearing, the property owners, Chan and Quynh Kiev,
expressed opposition to placing their home on the local Historic
Register.
2. On September 4, 2003 the Historic Resources Commission
continued the matter until October 2, 2003.
On October 2, 2003 the Historic Resources Commission, by a vote
of 7:0 (Chinn and Bustamante absent) placed the property on the
Santa Ana Register of Historic Properties and categorized the
property as Landmark.
Applicant filed an appeal (Appeal No. 2003-07) of the Historic Resources
Commission decision to the City Council of the City of Santa Ana.
On December 1,2003 the City Council of the City of Santa Aha held a
duly noticed public hearing on Appeal No. 2003-07, regarding placing the
property located at 2221 North Heliotrope Drive on the Santa Ana Register
of Historic Properties, Historic Resources Commission Application No.
2003-30, and placing the property into an established category, Historic
Register Categorization No. 2003-34. The City Council continued the
public headng to January 5, 2004.
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The Maharajah House, located at 2221 North Heliotrope Drive, Santa Ana
is eligible for inclusion on the Santa Ana Register of Historical Properties
as it exemplifies the Art Moderne variant of the Moderne style, a simplified
version that flourished during the 1930s through World War II.
Additionally, it is eligible for the Santa Ana Register of Historical
Properties for its association with a foreign ruling family, the
Holkars of Indore, India. The Maharajah of Indore was the
hereditary ruler of a central Indian state.
Constructed in 1938, the structure is eligible to be placed within the
Landmark category for its unique architectural significance as an
intact example of the Art Modeme style as well as its
historical/cultural significance to the City as a "castle" for a sitting
ruler.
This unique two-story stucco residence has a flat roof accented by
a thin parapet band that emphasizes the horizontal lines and "T"
shaped cubic architectural design. Other characteristic style
features are the cut away building corners that create second floor
terraces, multi-light casement windows and the window grilles and
canopies.
The structure appears to be eligible for placement on the National
and California Registers.
5. The legal owners of the subject are Chan Q & Quynh Kieu.
The legal description for the subject property is attached hereto as
Exhibit A and incorporated by this reference as though fully set
forth herein.
The subject property meets the minimal standards for placement on
the City of Santa Ana Register of Historic Properties pursuant to
Section 30-2 of the Santa Ana Municipal Code.
8. The subject property meets the minimal standards for placement in
the landmark category pursuant to Section 30-2.2(1) of the Santa
Ana Municipal Code.
Section 2: In accordance with the California Environmental Quality Act, the
recommended action is exempt from further review. Categorical Exemptions will be
filed for this project.
Section 3: The City Council of the City of Santa Ana after conducting the
public hearing hereby approves Historic Resources Commission Application No. 2003-
30, which placing the property located at 2221 North Heliotrope Drive on the Santa Ana
Register of Historic Properties, and Historic Register Categorization No. 2003-34, which
75;A.:. 0o -xx×
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places the property into the Landmark category. This decision is based upon the
evidence submitted at the abovesaid hearing, which includes but not is not limited to:
the Staff report and exhibits attached thereto; a report entitled "Historical Property
Description;" and the public testimony all of which are incorporated herein by this
reference.
Section 4. This decision rendered by the City Council of the City of Santa Aha
is final and is subject to judicial review pursuant to California Code of Civil Procedure
section 1094.6.
Section 5: For the subject property, a report entitled "Historical Property
Description," is on file in the office of the Clerk of the Council, and is hereby approved and
adopted, and together with the staff report and this resolution, justify the findings for
placement on the City of Santa Aha Register of Historical Properties in the Landmark
category. The Clerk of the Council is authorized and directed to include this resolution in
the City of Santa Ana Register of Historical Properties.
Section 6. The Historic Resources Commission Secretary is hereby directed to
file a certified copy of this Resolution with the County Recorder's Office after the adoption
of this Resolution pursuant to Public Resoumes Code SeCtion 5029.
Section 7. This Resolution shall take effect immediately upon its adoption by
the City Council of the City of Santa Ana, and the Clerk of the Council shall attest to and
certify the vote adopting this Resolution.
ADOPTED this __ day of
,2004
Miguel A. Pulido
Mayor
APPROVED AS TO FORM:
Joseph W. Fletcher, City Attorney
By:.
Kylee O. Otto
Deputy City Attorney
Page 75
Res°lu ti°n NTpIpp2aS~XxA.
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TO GOVERNMENT CODE § 6103
AYES:
NOES:
· ABSTAIN:
NOT PRESENT:
Councilmembers
Councilmembers
Councilmembem
Councilmembers
CERTIFICATE OF ATTESTATION AND ORIGINALITY
I, PATRICIA E. HEALY, Clerk of the Council, do hereby attest to and certify the
attached Resolution No. 2004-003 to be the original resolution adopted by the City
Council of the City of Santa Ana on
Date:
Clerk of the Council
City of Santa Ana
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75.A.