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HomeMy WebLinkAboutHRC FULL PACKET 2013-04-25 .r ~~ ~~~~. _ ~~~~ ~~ ~~ .~A ~~[~, REV: -~# & ~~~~'. .P~-'T1Ct~E i~~~R'~kZ~1l~.; ~~~_'~!' -- ~ ~ _ - ~~ ~ ~~~~~~, ~##~ Pin <~~r; ~ ~7~,6~~~ ~a ~ .~ - ;~a t i,~,a ~ - -` :ate "° ~ fir ~~ ~; ! - ~:, - ~°: C), y ~Pit`ra, G~~~'~q2 ~7~~~~27 ~~ _ ~. ~ m. i _ . ~ _F _.. _ -r . , ~e~t~f ~ ~~'~ ~s~ ~~~ ~~~~~ G ~ E r~~~ k it ~t cs ms's ~f ~~#ed ~a~e~, . _ ~3 d ~~~,~ t ~~e~~: ~ ~r~ ode ~it~r':~` G~ ~a~ be f~~ '~` rtr. c're ~s . _ ..;y ~ ar~~ c~r~ v~~ ~~es~~ - ~ . ",. 3 ~I! ~ke~'s !,~td~C ~~ ~~s~n'~ jst~f~~ To ~~~C, ~ gis~~' ~ a ~~~# ~R~k ~ ~~" t~~ the ~~~n ~~~. S,}a~~;~a a~~e,a~~ an .~ ~ "~O' 58~{€ Q{1 an? 4~"I- , e ~ d t~ ~ft'fI£3i tM~ ~~. t~, ~'~i~bB~'fCU`~'#' ~~Se~~~t` ~~; ''~ s~ chi ~ !~~ nab art ~'~te A~+~a~3a. ~ -- ',~. ~ ~ ~wt~~ a ~a ~~ E=~~a .~ C...~' Imo'' ,~. ~~~ at~r1 ~~ k~ ,~~ ac~~n ~ ~~~ ~c~~ e#es: ~t~ :fie ap#~~i~~~~ a~+ ~t~ a~e~ ~~r '~x~ ~s _ ~t~uts~ r~~ded ka~, nr~~ a~#iQn ~kl ~ k fir?' ~ ~~ ~ ~ ~~ Pia ~ i~~ ~~ ~+ ~~~lk~ . ~~rc, ~~~ ;~, ~ ~ ~~~t~r'~R~~a, Sam Ana, ~~~~~Y ~#te~e nub ~ (7~'~)' B~~-~2~ Tie eu1~'e aka ~r~~' #~~'~~ ~~ ~rrt~s~ ~~1 ~~a~ tom ~n~~a~~ ~s~rss~n ~s~ ~ rr~#~er v~' t ' ~ "-':~~==~~ a~ i~a~ ~~~r~:a c~rrrt c~n~ar ~~r ,~: r ~~a - -. - ~~ ~a ~`~~ ~f ~~~a ~ ~s ~~~ ate` ~ ~ age ~; ~~ ~.: HISTORIC RESOURCES COMMISSION AGENDA CITY HALL, COUNCIL CHAMBER 22 CIVIC CENTER PLAZA SANTA ANA, CALIFORNIA APRIL 25, 2013 CALL TO ORDER 5:30 P.M. ROLL CALL PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE TO THE FLAG CCINSENT CALENDAR A. MINUTES RECOMMENDATION: Approve minutes of the regular meeting on March 7, 2013. * * * END OF CONSENT CALENDAR * * BUSINESS CALENDAR B. ELECTION OF OFFICERS 1. Elect a Chairperson of the Historic Resources Commission for the year 2013. 2. Elect Vice Chairperson of the Historic Resources Commission for the year 2013. C MMISSIONER COMMUNICATION DISCLOSURE (REGARDI.,,,,_ NG AGENDIZED PROJECTS) Historic Resources Commission Agenda 3 April 25, 2013 PROCEDURAL RULES PUBLIC HEARING 1. 2. HISTORIC REGISTER NO. 2013-01-RML {Nally Soboleske) {item continued by the Historic Resources Commission: March 7, 2013 to a dale uncertain) Filed by Chan and Quyhn Kieu to allow the removal of the Maharajah House (Landmark) located 2221 North Heliotrope Drive from the Santa Ana Register of Historical Properties. PUBLISHED IN THE ORANGE COUNTY REPORTER: April 12, 2013 PUBLICLY NOTICED: April 11, 2013 RECOMMENDATION: Adopt a resolution denying Historic Register No. 2013-01-RML (removal) to remove the Maharajah House categorized as Landmark, HRC No. 2003-34 and HRCA No. 2003-30 from the Santa Ana Register of Historical Properties. PUBLIC COMMENTS (items not on the agenda} STAFF AND COMMISSION COMMENTS 3. STAFF COMMENTS 4. HISTORIC RESOURCES COMMISSION COMMENTS 5. EXCUSE OF ABSENCES ADJOURNMENT Historic Resources Commission Agenda ~ April 25, 2013 '~~t.i; _ a_ .h,. ~~.'~ ~ ~ ~-ui~ n~ ~1az_ ~~o~ ~~ta ~~ ~~ -..,..X S .L~~ ~~ ~~ ~~ ~'' ~~~' ~ -: Karen ~ia~ ~ ~~ -: ~~~ ' _r ~" ~Q~C'~` .: A _._..,. _, ~5, _ ~._, _, _ ._._ . _ .~r~ ~~ 4~ 8 ~~~~ Pty ,~^ _' (f~E~tt ~o~ ~~t ... _ _, ,tt~~ R _ ~~ . __ ~ , .7_ _ ~ ~C~3IJ~1~~~1~ mod. I~ti~~ i~~~~r Cai~~i . '~`~~-Q~ .. _ _ _ . _ ,_ ~ y~ 4 °~ ~~'~ ~~~~ X11, ~`~~A `' .. ~ ~~* i ; ~~~~, ,._:. - MOTION: Yrarrazaval VOTE: AYES: NOES; ABSENT: ABSTAIN: A. MINUTES RECOMMENDATION: SECOND: Hitterdale Garcia, Hitterdale, Rosas, Schaefer, Yrarrazaval (5) None (0} Bustamante, Christy (2} None (0} Approve minutes of the regular meeting on January 24, 2013. * * * END 01= CONSENT CALENDAR 5:'19 p.m. Historic Resources Commission took a recess to await the arrival of Commissioner Bustamante in order to maintain quorum. 5:30 p.m. Commission resumed the meeting with the arrival of Commissioner Bustamante; Commissioner Yrarrazaval removed himself from the dais. 2. HISTORIC REGISTER NO. 2D'13-01-RML Filed by Chan and Quynh Kieu to allow the removal of the Maharajah House (Landmark) located 2221 North Heliotrope Drive from the Santa Ana Register of Historical Properties. PUBLISHED IN THE ORANGE COUNTY REPORTER: February 25, 2013 PUBLICLY NOTICED: February 25, 2013 RECOMMENDATION: Adopt a resolution denying Historic Register No. 2013-01-RML (removal} to remove the Maharajah House categorized as Landmark, HRC No. 2003-34 and HRCA No. 2003-30 from the Santa Ana Register of Historical Properties. Associate Planner Holly Soboleske presented the staff report and recommendation. Commissioner Rosas inquired if owners were aware of the historic significance at the time of the purchase. Associate Planner Soboleske confirmed information. Commissioner Garcia inquired as to how many times could the applicant submit a de-listing or removal before accepted. Assistant City Attorney Ryan Hodge provided information. Historic Resources Commission Minutes Page 3 of 5 March 7, 2013 The public Rearing was opened. Written communications in opposition to the removal of the Maharajah House (Landmark) from the Santa Ana Register of Historical Properties were received and distributed to the Commission: Resident Ann Salisbury, Resident Sherri L. Honer, and business owner Tom Lutz. Public speakers: Resident Eric Alderete spoke in support of the staff recommendation to deny the request for removal from the historic register. Julie Humphreys spoke in support of the staff recommendation to deny the request for removal from the historic register. Phil Chinn spoke in support of the staff recommendation to deny the request for removal from the historic register. Janelle McLoughlin spoke in support of the staff recommendation to deny the request for removal from the historic register. Maxine 5chmidl, on behalf of Santa Ana Preservation Historical Society (SAHPS} spoke in support of the staff recommendation to deny the request for removal from the historic register. Alan Lawson, associate board member of SAHPS, spoke in support of the staff recommendation to deny the request for removal from the historic register. Alex Hart, spoke in support of the staff recommendation to deny the request for removal from the historic register. Tim Rush, Wilshire Square resident spoke in support of the staff recommendation to deny the request for removal from the historic register. Executive Director Trevino recommended continuance of the public hearing due to the fact that the property owners were not able to attend the meeting and had requested a continuance. Chairman Schaefer asked staff: to investigate if there were any other properties in the United States or western United States that were built by or lived in by an Indian Maharajah and stressed that the "Moderne"architecture should be highlighted, Wistoric Resources Commission Minutes Page 4 of 5 March 7, 2013 Next slated meeting would be as soap as the applicants return to the country and are informed as to the outcome of this meeting. Commissioner Rosas would like to know more about legal ramifications in keeping property owners from doing what they want to do. Executive Director Trevino stated that training regarding the legal underpinnings of historic preservation is forthcoming. Chairman Schaefer recommended commissioners visit the site to become familiar with the property. The public hearing was closed. MOTION: Continue the public hearing to a date uncertain. MOTION; Bustamante SECOND: Rosas VOTE: AYES: Bustamante, Garcia, Hitterdale, Rosas, Schaefer (5} NOES: None (0} ABSTAIN: Yrarrazaval (1} ABSENT: Christy (1) 3. PUBLIC COMMENTS items not on the a enda None STAFF AND COMMISSION COMMENTS 4. STAFF COMMENTS None 5. H15TORIC RESOURCES COMMISSION COMMENTS Commission welcomed newly appointed commissioners Monica Garcia and Cynthia Rosas. 6. EXCUSE OF ABSENCES Motion Chairman Schaefer moved to excuse the absence of Commissioner Christy. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Hitterdale and voted unanimously to approve with the Commission's vote of 5:0, A©JOURNMENT 6:19 p.m. MR Historic Resources Commission Minutes Page 5 of 5 March 7, 2fl13 l pro. - ~~ _ _ i '. ;~' a F~~4 ~Ua ~ '; -_ ~_ - -1 ~• y.. 4 - ~. R~~~~~~ ~~1~~ Hc~~se ~eg~rd ~at~t~~i~a~k, W'~ ~. ,~ ~~ ~~ ~~ ,k _~~ .~ .~ ~~~ k~ T ~~~`~ ~f ~ ~ ~ ~ ~~ HAS#{71' '' ,. -, ~, ~~ _ __ = d®~a _~ #~ r P'~ ~~~~~ ~ ~n~C ~~~„ ;~~ ' _ _ ~~ ~ fro ~~ r ~. _ ~~ . ~ ~- _ :rte ~ ~ _ -_ ~~~e .err ~~ ~~~ ~[ heap,; ~~~~~ ~,~ " ~r~ "° ,~ ~s~a~e ~ ~ ~~ ~~ ~~c~:ean ~ t€~~ ~;, gyp' ~~f. ~ HQrt~~tl~~~~~es ~~ ~~ ~ ~ tip ~ ~s a~~#~~ r~ ~[~~b ~~ ~ea~ ~~ 8 h~ari~. ~;f~~ ~~ri €~~~r~ ~~min rn~t~d' ~, i ~~] :~' d ~~~ tote .a~ ~~ k}~ ~~se~. `~ ca~tQ~ ~~~ sdt~e i. ,~ HR~2013-01-RML April 25, 2013 Page 2 On October 2, 2003, the Maharajah House was individually listed on the Santa Ana Register of Historical Properties and categorized as Landmark {Exhibit 2). The structure was originally built in 1938 in the Moderne architectural style. It was constructed by the Holkar family. Mr. Yeshwar Rao Holkar was at the time the Maharajah of Indore, India. Historic documentation indicates the property is worthy of listing on the California Register of Historical Resources and the National Register of Historic Places because it exemplifies the Moderne style of architecture and is associated with the Holkars. On August 7, 2003, the Maharajah House was brought before the Historic Resources Commission for designation to the Santa Ana Register of Historical Properties and categorization as Landmark (Exhibit 2). Drs. Chan and Quynh Kieu were the owners at that time, and were not in favor of the designation. The item was continued to the Commission`s September 4, 2003 meeting to allow the owners time to gain knowledge about the potential benefits andlor restrictions related to historic designation. On September 4, 2003, the owners requested additional time to discuss the designation. The item was continued to October 2, 2003. On October 2, 2003, the property owners still objected to the historic designation, and they requested a three month continuance so they could proceed on roof repairs. However, the Historic Resources Commission voted unanimously to designate the property and categorize as Landmark. The applicants appealed the action to the City Council and the application was brought to the December 1, 2003 Council meeting. It was continued to the January 5, 2004 meeting, and continued again to February 2, 2004. At the February meeting the City Council upheld the Historic Resources Commission action to designate the property to the Santa Ana Register of Historical Properties and subsequent categorization by denying the appeal. In November of 2006, the property owners were cited for unpermitted work which included remodeling the cornice, canopy, and balcony areas with heavy stucco covered Styrofoam trim. The unpermitted work was contrary to the Art Moderne style of architecture, and did not meet the Secretary of the Interior's Standards. Since the owners did not comply with the citation, the City filed misdemeanor charges in Superior Court. The owners then filed a Historic Exterior Modification Application {HEMA) to obtain a Certificate of Appropriateness for the alterations. The Historic Resources Commission met on this item an October 4, 2007, and the HEMA was approved with conditions that the size of the balcony trim be reduced by half, and the cornice line be deemphasized through the use of a lighter color thereby complying with the citation and the Secretary of the Interior's Standards for Rehabilitation. The court case was resolved. On November 10, 2012, a complaint was filed with the City for further unpermitted work at the Maharajah House including 10 window change-outs. The windows in question were steel casement windows, the most common type of window used in the Art Moderne style of architecture. They have been changed to aluminum sliding windows. The applicants request the property be removed from the SARHP. H R-2013-01-RML April 25, 2013 Page 3 Protect Analysis The applicants' request to have the Maharajah House removed from the SARHP is due to their view that alterations made to the home in 1993, 1997, and 1998 have substantially altered the structure's style (Exhibit 3). The alterations include bedroomlbath additions and the enclosure of balconies, creating sunrooms. Other alterations are to the interior. Placement in the SARHP requires documentation that demonstrates the resource has historic or cultural significance based on the location, design, event, setting, materials andlor association. A resource may have historiclcultural significance because of its connection with a pattern or trend in history. The integrity of a resource is also evaluated to determine if the structure retains enough physical characteristics to convey the historic architectural appearance that existed during the building's period{s) of significance. Based on the evaluation, a resource may be eligible under one of the following six criteria [SAMC 30-2 (1) through (6)]: 1) Distinguished architectural style or period; 2) Notable works that have influenced architectural development; 3) Rare structures or design; 4} Places or buildings with historical significance; 5) Sites of archaeological importance; and 6) Connection with a business or use once common but now rare. The Maharajah House was placed on the SARHP for its architectural style, Criterion One; and its connection with the Maharajah of Indore, Criterion Four. • Santa Ana Register Criterion One [SAMC 30-2 (1}] The integrity of the Art Moderne design has been affected by the 1993 and 1997 addition and remodels, but the home retains its cultural and architectural integrity as an example of the Art Moderne style of architecture. The alterations do not substantially affect the primary elevations, and the building retains its architectural significance. The Art Moderne design became popular as the nation recovered from the depression. This architectural style emphasizes curving form and long horizontal lines. It was clean and simple, replacing carved wood and stone with glass and smooth stucco. It differs from Art Deco in that ornamentation is minimal and was styled after the aerodynamic vehicles at the time, often using porthole windows to mimic those seen on streamliners. This classic design was rather common in commercial architecture, but is fairly uncommon in residential architecture. There is one other Moderne style home in Santa Ana located at 1714 North Bush Street, but it is much more modest in size. HR-2013-01-RML April 25, 2013 Page 4 • Santa Ana Register Criterion Four [SAMC 30-2 (6)] The property is also culturally significant because of its association with the Maharajah of Indore who commissioned the construction of the house, and lived in the home with his wife and daughter far a little over a year. When the Maharajah and his Maharani returned to India, they left their daughter to be raised in the house so she could continue to attend public schools. The Maharajah governed Indore since the abdication of his father in his favor in 1926. The Maharajah and his American Maharani returned to India following an only one-year residence in the house, leaving Princess Usha in the care of a governess in Santa Ana, where she continued to attend public schools. The pair divorced in 1943. The Maharajah married again, to another American, who bore him four children including a male heir, but Princess Usha, as the only offspring born 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, Princess Usha occupied one of the Holkar's hereditary palaces in India, although, other information indicates that she was stripped of her rank and titles by the Indian state in 1970. The Maharajah and Maharani afro had a home in Emerald Bay, a county area in Laguna Beach, According to research, the modest Emerald Bay home was built by the Maharajah's American born wife in 1942 because of her love for the beach. They did enjoy the exclusive area together, but their main home remained the Santa Ana property since it was large enough to accommodate all of their servants. It is believed that the Emerald Bay home has been demolished. Removal of a property from the Santa Ana Register of Historical Properties requires that one of the following findings be made pursuant to Section 30-2.3 of the SAMC: 1) The building, structure, object or site does not meet the criteria for being placed on the city register of historical properties; or 2} Discovery of information subsequent to placement on the register of historical properties regarding the significance of the building, structure, object or site, such that the criteria for placement on the city register of historical properties is not met; or 3) The building, structure, object or site has been substantially damaged or destroyed by a catastrophic event such that it no longer meets the criteria for placement on the city register of historical properties; or 4} There has been a loss of the integrity of the building, structure, object or site, provided the loss of integrity was not the result of any illegal act or willful neglect by the owner or agent of the owner; or 5) The owner proves that helshe would have no economically viable use of the property unless the building, structure, object or site is removed from the register of historic properties. mil ~,y~~'- T ~~ ~`` .,'ice ~ ~_ . _~ ~x ~ ..s ~_ ~ . ,~_ . ~ _ « `. A~_ _ ~ ., _. .. _ ... ~a ~~tf~~c~tstt"~ ~#~~~'~y'~~d~~ it ~i~ ~, hf~~or~ ~~~r~an~tEx~~ ~. ,~.s ~#a~f ~~eE e ~~~~ ° .v ,~ _~. , - ~ ~; ar~# ~~s ~~ ~ ~ ._ ~ ~ ;as ~l __, t.; ~~; eve ~ _ ~`~ ~~~ra~l s~~ ~~ ~~1~~, t~~fieka~~erxt~e~r~~,q ~ ~~ _~ ~ar~'~~~fi~ t6~ _ , "~"' a~~~k ~~ ~st~~ ~ " ~~~ ~~f ~e ,re,r~d ;sfi~~l ~d ~u ~ . ~~ ~rr~~ ~~~ ~~R 'T~ ~ ~~~zi~s ~,. ~s ~l~tr~#~d ' ~~; ray ~~rt~r~~~i~h~aat ~r ~~~ ~ tare ~ ro~f~, ~e rc~ can a reed ~~~tf~~ ~s ~,~~~. ~~r., ~ ~~.d, rc~~~ ~ ~ t~~ :~~as Vie, ~i~ ~ ~~tl ~ _'~ h f~~~~ ~ ;~ ~~.. ~ ~~~~~. ,, ~~.. ~~ b~ ~ S~#~fc ~x~r~~~n~ ~r e~tn ~~ 5~~£~ ~s ~C~~~t d~:es~~t~rt,~ I v~ ~a Vie. ~~ ~~g~~r ~a~ ~aa~ Pre~t~~sf t~e~r~mr`~tbn. ~+au~ ~~ve ~ ~ ~~ 1~r~~s ~, ~a~ ~ ~~~~t ~~.es t Wit. ~~~- ~ ~" cy~ ~~i~~` + k~i~~~[e~l prae `~~~ d~s~r~ ~~~ ~ ~a r -~~ ` ~": ~__ . ~~ily ~t 1_._ ....,,. ~[ HR-2013-01-RM L April 25, 2013 Page 6 Attachments: Exhibit 1 - 500' Radius Map Exhibit 2 -Department of Parks and Recreation Form Exhibit 3 --Applicant's Request for Removal from the Santa Ana Register of Historical Properties Exhibit 4 -Applicant's Discussion of Structural Issues with the Property ~~ ~' _~ . .~ ~.. ~, ~i ~X~CU'I'IV~ SUMMARY 'THE MAHARAJAH HO[7Sis; 2221 N©>i'tiI Heliptl•ope DI•ive Sang A><Ia, CA 9270G NAIvfE il4nltnrnjah House REf . NO. ADDRCSS 2221 North 1-leliolrope Drive CITY Santa A:tn L:1P 92706 ORANGE COUN'T'Y YlaAtt 13t31L'1' 1938 LOCAL REGISTER CATEGORY: Lanchnark H15TORIC DISTRICT NIA NEICH8ORHOOD moral Park NATIONAL RECtSTER CRITERIA FOR EYALUA'I'tON B,C t~tA'l tONAL Itt?GIS7'I;ft S'1'A'fUS COI)li 35 Location: ^ Not for P:Eblicatian ®Unreslrictcd ^ Prehistoric ®Historic ^ t3olh ARCIiITECTURAL STYLE: Moderne The Moderate style ei:co:t:passed the Modernistic, Streoi:tli:ied Moderne, and Art Moderate variants. An evolution of the Art Deca style, the Streamlined tvloderne flourished during the 1930s and Ihtgcred tltrottgit the decade fallawiitg 1Varld 1Yar 1[ tit a simplified version, ht contrast to the verticality ofenrlier Art Deco designs, tltc Streamli:ed t+~ioderne emphasized fire Iorizontal, fhrouglt bands ofwindotvs, tESe of decorative raised or htcised Itorizotrtal Ilncs, rnilhtgs, Plot canopies ~vitlt bearded fascia, and:tnrro~v copi::g al the rootliue. Other characteristics ittclttde smooth waif st:rfaces, usuogy of sUicca; metal detailing; glass block +vi:tdows; rounded corners, porlltole ~vindaws, and nsymntetry, h:cort}arotion ofaerodyuomic, Iransporlntio:t related imagery, especially nautical, is a signature of the style. In common whit the Streamlined i~~loden:e, Art Nfodente buildings also tended la be horizontal itt emphasis, but tended to be afore cleanJined and rectilinear in their iunsshtg and detniliitg than !heir slrearoliued counterparts. Att A4aderne designs coat be recognized by their (laE roofs, sntoogt stucco exteriors, and rase of the#al casement ~vindo~vs that often meet of fire corners of lire building. SU11~A'IARY/CONCLUSION: The Maharajah House appears eligible for fisting in the National Register of Historic Places and the Califoruin Regisler of historical Ciasources. [t also qualifies for listing in the Santa Ana Regisler of Historical Properties tinder Criterion I, for its exemplifiCatiaft of tl-e Art Moderate variant of the Moderue style, a:td under Criterion qb, for its association evitlt a foreign ruling family, the Holkars of I:tdare, India. The house aiso contributes to 11te historic character of rho Floral Park neigltboritoad throtkglt its age, style, scale, and Itistaric associations wills pro~uittetat residents. Additionally, the Itousc Itas been categorized as "Landmark" for ifs lmigt:e architectural significance as air example of the Art Moderne variant of the Moderate style and its historic/cnllural significance to City as the "cosfle" afa silthag ruler. (Municipal Code, Section 30-2.2}. I/XPLANATION OF CODES: Nolioitol Regisler Criteria for lvaltratio:t: (from Appendix 7 of Irtstruclions for Recording Ilisloricol Resources, Office of Historic Preservation) B: that ore assaciatecl ~vitlt fire lives of persot-s signitiennf in our past. C: Thal embody Ilse distinctive characteristics of atype, period, or method of construction, ar that represent the work of a master, or Ihnt possess high artistic values, or that represent n significant and distinguishable eltlity whose contpanents may lack individual distiraclion. • National Register Status Coda: (From Appendix 2 oflnstructi~ns for Recordhtg historical Resources, Offico ofHislorfc Preservation) 3S: Appears eligible for separate listing. EXWIBIT 2 Page 1 of 5 '~ ~ ~ _ - -r -. , ;_ E -_; ~ ~ _ __ :: .- _ - - ~_ ~.. . 1 ~~~ _, '~" ~ '. ~1 ~`~ _ .. ~~ ' ~.-. F' P ~ i'~ ~~~ ~; %~-~._ State of California-The Rasourcea Agency Primary # DEPARTMENT OF PARIt3 AND RECREATfON HRI# BUILDING, STRUCTURE, AND OBJECT RECORD Rage 2 of,~ "NRHP Status Cade 3S 'Resource Name or #: MaharaJali House 81. Hlstoria Nama: Maharajal[ House B2. Common Name: Same 83. Original Use: Single-famllyResldence B4. Present Usa: SI-tgie-familyResidsrrce "et+. Architectural Styte: Modeme "88. Conatructlon History: (Construclfon date, aiteralions, and data of alieraiians}: Conslr[rcted fn 1938-1939. December 14, 1938. 12 room frame & stucco residence and garages. May 8, ?941. Rervof. March 15, 1955. Swimming pool. May 2~1, 1955. Cabana (or swimming pool. January 24, 1989. 8' high botock wall. July 21, 1993. Add 2 bedrooms And 1 baUa, 319 square feel. September 15, 1997. Reroof. "137. Monad? IINo gYes gUnlcnown C3ato: Original E.ocatlon: "88. Related Features: Garage, garden walls, mature landscaping, status if original. 139a. Architect: Donald Beach Kirby b. euitder: A1Wson Ha[er "f310, slgnliicanco; Theme Resldentlal Architecture Area Sar[ta Ana Perfad of 3lgnificance: circa 1888-1953 Property Type: Single-fam7lyReslderrce Applfeabte Critarfa: 8, C (l]iscuss importance in farms o1 historical or archlieciural wntoxl as defined by theme, period, and geographic scopo. Also address inlegdty} Tho Maharajah House is arcldtecl[rrallysignificant as err exceptional example of the residential use of tl[8 Art Modeme variant o1 the Modarno style, on©of iho best 1n Orange County. !t is lrlstorlcally slgnificanl for ifs association with Ute Maharejalr o! 6rdore, the itersdltary ruler of a central indlan state and repuladiy one a! the riches[ Wren ir[ the world at time. Designed by arct[ltect Donald Beach Kirby of Halboa, the house was built in 1938-1933 by prominent Santa Ana contractor Allison Honer for $40,000 according to the building permit, although fire Inca! press reported the cast of conslrudian as $50,000 and of the firmishings as $150,000. (See Contir[uation Sheet 3 of 4.) 819. Addiltonaf Resource Aliributes: (i.isi altrihuiea and cabs} "812, References: City of Santa Ana Building Aermi[s Santa Ana History Room Collection, Santa Ana Public Library Sanborn Maps (See Continuatrort Sliest 4 of 4.) g13. Remarks: '894. Evaluator: Leslie J. Neumann "Date of E~aluatlon: May 25, 2003 (This space reserved for otfcial comments.) D#~R 6238 (1198) Sketch Map ~. ~" ~} rut.~ru r ~g=p r ' i ..- r ..,. [.. ~v q i H ~ , !~ -~ ~ti ~~ u: ~ vor~a~~ ~~ MAHARAJAH HOUSE 2221 NORTH HEf_kOTROPE DRIVE "Required information Page 3 of 5 8tato of Caltiornla ~---The Resources Agency Primary [i I]~PARTMSNT OF PARKS AtVD RECR~AT[Ot~ HRi d CONTINUATION SHEET Trinomial Page 3 of __~._ Resource [Name or to {Ass'sgned by recorder) Maharajah House 'Recorded by Leslie J. Haumarur, SA1C 'tJate May 25, 2003 Egl Continuatlan ^ Update "810. Signlficauca {continued}; Even before the house was cans[r[rcled, Yeshwanl Rao Holkar, [he Maharajah, had captured [he publlclmaglnatton. Educalsd a[ Oxford, the Maharajah had been fravefi-rg !rr [hs United Sfatos 1n 1938, had taken Ill In l.os Angalas, and had been nursed by Marguerite tawfer Branyan, an American divorcee. They nrarrled !n 1938, following fhe death of f1~e Maharajah s firs[ wife hr 1937. In search of a safe haven prior fo fire beginning of World War 11, the Maharajah decided fo selffe his young daughter, Princess Usira, a,rd his new wife !n Santa Ana. The large home, one of several owned by fha Maharajah, was protected by high walls and by interior and exlerfor gales. According fo one accotrnt, the Maharajah's Irrs[rrrcllorrs fo Allison Honer, fha prominent Orange County builder who lived across fhe street from the property at S75 West Santa Clara Avenue, were to build a modem, but not loo severe refuge. Lavishly appnln[ed, fha house cbnfalned, lr 1988 when if was fhe lntema[[onal Svclety of Interior Designers Orange County Chapter Design Houss: three kedroom sidles, sigh! bafhroorns, four Jireplaces, a grand foyer, spacious h'ving room, forma! dining roam, library, solarium, k![chsn, boiler's pantry, pool house (added islet), servants' and guards' quarters, and an attached garage. Sold [o be a progressive ruler who lnst[futed many reforms, fhe Maharajah had gavemed fndore since fhe abd[callorr of iris falher In Iris favor in 1928. The Maharajah and his American Maharani returned to lrtdia following an only one-year residence in fire house, leaving Princess Uslra !n the taro of a governess In Santa Ana, where she continued to attend public schools. The palydlvorcedln 1943. The MaharoJafr married again, !o anolherAmerican, who bore h!m fourchlfdren including a rraala heir, brrf Princess Usha, as the only offspring born of an lr~d[an woman, srrcceoded her father as ruler In 1961 following the death of her falher. Marguerite, who also remarried, renralnod Irt firs house until 1952. As of 1899, accorrfing to one accormt (Marsh), Princess Usha occupied one of [hs Holkar's hersdllary palaces !n India, although, other lnfomratlon (°fndore: The Holkar Dynasty") indfca[es fha[ site was stripped of fret rank and lilies by fhe !nd[an stale in 1970 The Maharajah House is faceted in Floral Park, a neighborhood norihwesf of downlowrr Santa Ana bounded by Wosl Seventaenfh street, North Flower Sfreef, Riverside Drive, and Broadway. E4roves al oranges, avocados, and walnuts arrd widely scattered ranch houses characterized this area before 1920. Developer and brrlldar Allison Honer (989r 9981), credited as the subdivider and builder of a major parfian of narfhwesf Santa Ana, arrived In Santa Ana from Beaver );ells, New York !n 7922 (Talbert, pages 353-356). Before niglrflal! on fhe day of his arrival, Mr. Honer purchased a parcel of land. And that month, ire began bulldirtg custom homes in Santa Ana" (1Tppq~Counly Reglsler. September iti, 1981). The parcel chosen became fhe Floral Park subdlvisloH belwsen Seventeenth S[res[ and Santiago Creek. 'When built in the 1920s, !ha Floral Park homes were the moll lavish and expensive In the area. They sold for about $45,000 each" (Orange C rn ~~ Septomber 1 S, 1981). ReVlval arclTitecturs !n a wide variety of ronrarrtlc stylos was celebratedln Ure 1920s and 7934s and Floral Park showcased examples of the English Tudor, French Norman, Spanish Colonial, and Colonial Revival The Allison Hwrer Consfrucllon Company went on fo complete such nofabfe projects as the 1935 Art Dsco styled Old Santa Ana Clly HaN, the El Toro Marina Base during World Warl1, and [l~01980 Honer Shoppi-rg Plaza. Honer~iv~d !n the nslglrhorhood ire had helped to create, at 815 West Santa Clara Avenue. !n the Tale 7920s and 7930s, anofhar builder, Roy Roscoe Russell (9881-7985), contlnuerl developing fhe groves of Floral Bark. An early Rrrssa!! project was his 1928 subdlvislon of Victoria Dries between West Ninelsenlh Street and Wes[ Santa Clara Avonue. Tho homes were quite grand and displayed various revival styles, fnclrrding Russell's owrr large, Colorrla! Revival mansion at 2009 Victoria Drive. !-r the early post World War 11 years, Floral Park conilrrrred Its davefopnrerrf as Humorous, snrailsr, single-lamlly houses ware bcr!!1. Continuing in fho Flaaf Park tradillon, [hey wars mostly revive[ in style. in the 7950s, low, horizontal Ranch Style houses completed the grawlh of Floral Park. Today (2003) floral park maintains !ts ldenllfy as the pronrler neighborhood of Santa Ana, historically hanre to many affluent arrd prominent citizens. Tl~e Maharafah House appears eligible for listing fn fhe National Reglsler of Hlsloric Places and fhe California Register of N[s[orical Resources, !t also grrafilles for listing !n fhe Santa Ana Reglsler of Historical Properties under Criterion 7 for !ts exemplilicaf[on of the Art Modeme varlenl a! the Moderne slyls and under Cri[err`on 4b forlls assoclaflan with a forslgn ruling lamlly, fha Holkars of lrrdore, India. Arclritecturalty, the house is distinguished by !!s scale, massing, frorizontal lines, use of cfraraclerfstlc fea[rrres such as comer casanrauf windows, and its fortress-like quality. The house also contdbufes fa the h!s[oric character of the f=loral Park r3efghborhaod through its ago, style, stela, and hlsbric assocfatians with prominent resldenls. Addlllonally, the fro~rse has been catsgorized as 'Landmarlr" for its unique archi[eclural sfgrrlficance as an example of the Art Moderns variant of fha Madame style and its hfstorisJcu![ural sfgrilOcancs to Cily as fhe 'castle" of a sllling ruler. Al! origins! exterior features of the Maharajah House are considered character daflnfrrg and should ba preserved. These features irtclrrds, brrf rosy not be limited fo: materials arrd finishes (stucco, wrought Iron); roof conilguraClon, materials, and frea[rnent; massing and composition; entry, doors and windows; terraces and walfod gardens; architectural detailing (banding, window grilles, canopies, entry surround); clrimnsys and fireplaces; attached garage; origlnallandscaping; and anyoriginal inferiormaferials, spaces, finishes, and fumislrtngs. Optt G23l. Page 4 of 5 't~~r~t4 ,. s a ~4r: s ~e1~s: ~J ,I MODIFICATIC)NS FROM DRIGINAI., DESIGN Trom the onset, the house had problems, which required ad~litiooal structural changes to attempt to mitigate it. 1-Second floor had only three bedrooms. A big solat'~Ltrn size 35x25 onty pat~tialiy cowe~•ed and exposed to elements, was causing leaks to tlae living room on 1'` floor , A previous ow~~cr covered it using a hLtge glass skylight, to stop the leak, Unfortu~~ately tl~e skylight tuti~ed into a heat trap. The next owner a•aised tl~e skylight higher far air~lo~ti~, adding two ventilation ~vindotivs on the 4~falls, which sore be seen from the street. 2~ In 1998 a major remodeling as the orange CaLlnty designer house (charity benefit). The house was completely changed inside, with some exterior feahtres. a- Color change from beige and light brown to black -and white, black awning covered all exterior windows, ot~aittitag soiree roof line tritut~ling eta. b- Changing the location of the pantry and walk~rray in the kitchen area. The maid ~'oom vas remodeled into dining area, windows ~~~ere rt'eplaced etc... c- Replaceme~~t of all the-book shelves by mi~•a•ar's ire the libcat•y and complete refacing of the mantles for three #ireplaces of the house, 2- In .1993 with proper permits fi•am building department; an addition of t.wo bedraotns and one batlu•oanx on second floor, including reintat•cetnents at the foundation and ~ suppoti posts outside, 3- I~z 1997 enclosure of the remaining two east side balconies to prevent leaks. The result -The east elevation of the property is completely altered, Tl~e North and South sides at'e pat•tially changed. -The dome of the huge skylight can be seen on the street side, -sy the bane the hoLrse was cumn~issioned as a historical hoL~se, the living space upstairs has doLtbled in size (2 bedrooms and a bath , and a 775 sclft family room). 1,404 sclh.liave been adclecl in toil ors the 2"`t flour with ofivlo~rs chat`age to the prof le and look of the property. Because of the substantial changes, the "l~istarical'' stt•t~ct~.rt•e has been drastically changed. AlthoLtgh the o~,vners Dave carefitlly matched the style of the house, it no longer meet the required standards, and it ~vauld be deceptive to the public to list it as a Historical douse. Should it be delisted, tive tivould attempt to maintain its elegant style, while proceeding to protect it fraxn ongoing element damages and tendering it more appropriate far living comfort. EXHIBIT 3 Page i ar a t - a ~~.y,~~ y ..Yti,J.~s; e~ .... ~ _ -+~ ~_%` ~~A7,~_ f ~ - _ __ t.v-t ' ~ -__.. _.___ .. _ i~ ~. ti= '~ ~ '- . 111 l~LL--- - ~~ ~.-~ ~ ~ ~ ' r:~-~~~ = - - Y ~f ? _ ~ ~ x ~ ~ ~~ t4 _ .ti'. ~~ . ~ _ _ _ i~ _ ~ ~~~ - - A __ _ _ _ _ - _ _ _ _ - - - _ _ . J 3 _ ' -.": :~ ~ _. r i ~~ Y - ~--- ~ -- _ -";~,. ~i9--S ~ ~+~~Gtl ~D~ t '~i Page 3 0[ 3 STRUCTC.fRAL PROBLEN[S OF THE PftOPERTX Like many houses with fiat roof of the period, including properties designed.by famous architect Franklin L Wright, these houses are natoriaus fox ceiling leakage and water damages. Tl~e house underwent ~na~~y changes because of the chronic 1?rohle~n with leaking roof; l~. iViuch prior to 19$$, die 2''a floor solarium which was out~loo~• initi~all.y, was covered and e~aclased to prevent leaking to the living room o~~ first floor. 2.,Subsecluent addition oftwo bedrooms and a bath and enclosure of both balconies on the East side of the property. Water leakage ft•om balconies to the living room had caused collapse of '~a of living room ceiling. 3. The kitchen and garage ceilings have been required majoz• repairs twice and currently another round'of repair•is anticipated, after testing diuability of the recent repair ot'two decks. 4. Nfultiple minor leaks ongoing around the chinu~.ey and the sk-ylight. It is evident that the roofrepresents~serious defects which endanger the total st~•uctures underneath and lead to health problems of perpetual humidity, molds, dust,,cold within the house, in 2003, the property was listed as Historical despite our opposition --eve felt a protective ~•ooi~ was needed- Since then, we have worlced with~roofng ~ctantractors costing average af$25,000-$30,000 per repair. Despite r~varranty of 5 yea~•s, ev~~y 2~3 yea~•s patching is reciui-•ed. Furniture, tivallpapcr, curtains, cabinets, art works and books have been serio~~sly clan~aged, some of them irreplaceable, E111 these problems have made the house a financial liability along our 25 years of ownership. The st~•~icri~ral changes are absolutely necessary to protect tl~e integrity of the house, reduce the health hazards to o~~r family and grandchild, and to mitigate further ciamages to the content, some of it must valuable personal acid cultux~Fl tres~SllrCS. We ask the historical committee to cleconvnission the house for~ust cause, so we can have the permit to build a pitched roof to p~•event ot~e of the rno.st valuable house in Santa Asaa to fall into decay. EXHIBIT 4 ROH - 04/25/13 RESOLUTION NO. 2013-XXX A RESOLUTION OF THE HISTORIC RESOURCES COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF SANTA ANA DENYING THE REMOVAL OF THE PROPERTY LOCATED AT 2221 NORTH HELIOTROPE DRIVE FROM THE SANTA ANA REGISTER OF HISTORICAL PROPERTIES BE IT RESOLVED BY THE HISTORIC RESOURCES COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF SANTA ANA AS FOLLOWS: Section 1. The Historic Resources Commission of the City of Santa Ana hereby finds, determines and declares as follows: A. On October 2, 2003, the Maharaja House, located at 2221 North Heliotrope Drive, was individually listed on the Santa Ana Register of Historical Properties and categorized as Landmark by the Historic Resources Commission, HRC No. 2003-34 and HRCA No. 2003-30. The Maharaja House was placed on the Register for its Art Moderne architectural style and its connection with the Maharaja of Indore, India. B. The applicants, Chan and Quynh Kieu, filed an application for Historic Register No. 2013-01-RML to allow the removal of the Maharajah House, at 2221 North Heliotrope Drive, from the Santa Ana Register of Historical Properties. C. On March 7, 2013, the Historic Resources Commission held a duly noticed public hearing to consider Historic Register No. 2013-01-RML for the removal of the Maharajah House, located at 2221 North Heliotrope Drive, from the Santa Ana Register of Historical Properties. At that time, the Historic Resources Commission continued the matter indefinitely. The continued hearing before the Historic Resources Commission was later noticed for and heard on April 25, 2013. D. Santa Ana Municipal Code section 30-2.3 requires that at least one of a set of specific findings be made in order to remove a property from the Santa Ana Register of Historical Properties. E. After further evaluation of the structure at 2221 North Heliotrope Drive, the Historic Resources Commission does not find sufficient criteria and findings for removal of the property from the Santa Ana Register of Historical Properties: Resolution No. 2413-XXX Page 1 of 3 1. Santa Ana Register Criterion One [SAMC 30-2.3(1)]: The applicant states that the earlier alterations, which were not made by them, but were permitted, denigrated the architecture, thereby rendering it ineligible for historic designation. However, the Commission finds that the alterations do not greatly affect the primary elevations, and that this structure was designated knowing this alteration was in place and still determined it historic. 2. Santa Ana Register Criterion Four [SAMC 30-2.3(4)]: The applicant believes this criterion is applicable as the alterations have "substantially changed" the architectural style of the residence, thereby rendering it ineligible for historic designation. The applicant also states that the flat roof has been rendered structurally unsound and must be replaced with a pitched roof. However, the Commission finds that, as illustrated by the many structures throughout Santa Ana that have flat roofs, the roof can be repaired without altering its pitch. Further, a pitched roof on this structure would substantially alter a character defining feature of the property. 3. Therefore, the subject property does not meet the criterion for removal from the Santa Ana Register of Historical Properties pursuant to Section 30-2.3 of the Santa Ana Municipal Code. F. In accordance with the California Environmental Quality Act, the proposed project has been determined to be a Statutory Exemption per Section 15270 as CEQA does not apply when a public agency rejects or disapproves a project. Should the Commission wish to approve this action and remove this property from the Santa Ana Register of Historical Properties, the Commission would have to find that the original findings were in error, and that the subject site does not meet the criteria for being placed on the city register of historical properties. The de-listing would also potentially trigger further review under CEQA, up to and including the preparation of an Environmental Impact Report. Section 2: The Historic Resources Commission of the City of Santa Ana, after conducting the public hearing, hereby denies Historic Register No. 2013-01-RML to remove the Maharajah House, located at 2221 North Heliotrope Drive, HRC No. 2003- 34 and HRCA No. 2003-30, from the Santa Ana Register of Historical Properties. This decision is based upon the evidence submitted at the above said hearing, which includes, but is not limited to: the Staff reports and exhibits attached thereto, and the public testimony, all of which are incorporated herein by this reference. Resolution iVo. 2013-XXX Page 2 of 3 ADOPTED this 25th day of April , 2013. Phillip Schaefer Chairman APPROVED AS TO FORM: Sonia R. Carvalho, City Attorney By: Ryan O. Hodge Assistant City Attorney AYES: Commission members NOES: Commission members ABSTAIN: Commission members NOT PRESENT: Commission members CERTIFICATE OF ATTESTATION AND ORIGINALITY I, MARTHA RAMIREZ, Commission Secretary, do hereby attest to and certify the attached Resolution No. 2013-XXX to be the original resolution adopted by Historic Resources Commission of the City of Santa Ana on Aril 25 2013 . Date: Commission Secretary City of Santa Ana Resolution No. 2013-XXX Page 3 of 3