Conceptual drawing by Kattenburg Architects of the new facade for 37 Moraga Way.
Downtown revitalization, the topic of many local meetings and countless reams of paper, took a small step forward on Dec. 18 when the Planning Commission approved a new facade for 37 Moraga Way.
The two-story building, which houses Orinda Cleaners, Salon Elegante and NuWa Great Body Designer, was purchased in late 2018 by Mo Mashboon. Originally constructed in the 1940s, the building’s original facade had been transformed over time from a commercial/industrial appearance to the multi-tenant commercial facade that exists today. That facade includes a large green awning and a mismatch of signage.
The new facade approved by the Planning Commission introduces a more consistent architectural style with a warmer color palette, Tuscan columns with planter boxes and a decorative panel between the first and second stories. The large green awning has been replaced with three smaller awnings with window boxes.
While there were no public speakers at the Dec. Planning Commission meeting, speakers at the Dec. 4 meeting spoke in favor of the improvements. Spokespersons for Salon Elegante, located on the second floor of the building, however, did express concern about how the renovations might affect customers.
The exterior modifications of 37 Moraga Way are the first phase in a two-phase project. The second phase includes interior, mechanical and electrical modifications as well as outside landscaping and a potential outdoor seating area.
