Rivers Edge

incorporating a well articulated roof, natural stone and peeled pine log accents, nestled into a natural depression next to the new bridge.

The remaining structures on the site will be more visible from neighboring uses. The homes across the river to the south of the subject property are approximately 300 feet from the proposed southern residential units. This separation greatly exceeds the current rear yard setback required by the code and helps to minimize the visual impact of the units when viewed from residential units across the river. The views from the restaurant, hotel and residential units are an intrinsic part of the value of those structures. The design of all of these structures is intended to be aesthetic when viewed from surrounding areas and homes and, like surrounding homes, to showcase the beauty of the river and other dramatic topographic features. The purpose of the entire facility is to encourage visitors to visit Bend more often and to stay longer. That goal is promoted by elements of the development that will showcase the natural and developed beauty of Bend, for visitors and residents.

The meeting facility is designed in a distinctive style, characteristic of Central Oregon, and reminiscent of grand, regional lodge-style structures of the past. Architectural styles that are considered to be most representative of the Central Oregon region are those that use local building materials and exhibit forms and details reflecting the architectural heritage of the area. Camp Abbott, Great Hall, the Crater Lake Lodge, and historic agricultural buildings throughout Central Oregon are good examples of architect Neal Huston’s vision. Such structures make strong design statements but blend comfortably with the natural look of the high desert environment. All of the other proposed structures maintain this theme, but on a smaller scale, to compliment the meeting facility and natural features of the site. The effect is achieved using natural log, timber and stone design elements and textural wall and roof treatments. Exterior colors will be subtle earth tones. The meeting facility size and form are intended to diminish the impact of the new bridge on the site, and to be compatible with both the new bridge and the dam.

Graceful roof pitches visually pull the meeting facility down to comfortably meet the site, but not to the extent that is out of character with the existing dam and new bridge. Roof gables, dormers, and deep, shadowed overhangs add character and break down the overall scale of all proposed buildings. Architectural features of all proposed structures, and the orientation of those structures, relate well to surrounding uses, in terms of building bulk, height, location and separation.

Parking areas proposed in the development will also be compatible with the existing area.

Parking areas will be located well away from the Deschutes River, in the interior of the site. Due to availability of existing Riverhouse parking facilities, new parking associated with the development will be minimized. This means less asphalt, improving compatibility. Parking areas have been intentionally limited to the number of spaces necessary to accommodate new proposed uses, and to efficiently utilize, through pedestrian connections and parking management, existing Riverhouse parking areas. At the southern end of the site, parking has been intentionally limited to the interior, surrounded by the restaurant, hotel and dwelling units. All lighting for the facility, access drives and parking areas, will direct light downward and be minimally reflective, creating minimal ambient glare. Proposed lighting fixtures also comply with the City’s 50 FINDINGS AND CONDITIONS ORDINANCE NO. NS-1951