Beverly Hills Single-Family Mass and Bulk Study

JKA, working with Dyett and Bhatia, was selected by the City of Beverly Hills to review existing conditions and develop recommendations related to the mass and bulk of newly constructed single-family residences that compromised the character of the Central Area community.

Analysis revealed that the existing code and guidelines never anticipated multi-generational families, one car per person households, large basements, or households seeking to maximize allowances for height and lot coverage while maintaining minimal setbacks. Using GIS data, JKA established a framework of known conditions that characterized the garden quality of Central Area neighborhoods. Alternatives and additions to existing zoning and design standards were then proposed to conserve street character.

After working on a bi-weekly basis with a task force that included stakeholders, architects, and Planning Commissioners, JKA presented alternatives to modulate single-family mass and bulk; these included increased side yard setbacks, incentives to park cars in subterranean garages, lower ridgelines, and encouragement of “L” shaped residences south of Santa Monica Boulevard. A consensus of concepts emerged, which are now being incorporated into the updated zoning ordinance.