Kevin Gardiner & Associates, in partnership with Van Meter Williams Pollack (VMWP), is working with the City of Los Altos to update its Objective Design Standards (ODS) for residential development.

The City aims to update the Objective Design Standards to: 

• Provide clear, objective design guidance and expectations for applicants, staff, and decision-makers. 

• Support efficient and consistent plan review and project approvals. 

• Align with applicable State housing and permitting laws. 

• Maintain high-quality architecture and site design that is compatible with existing development patterns, streetscapes, and neighborhoods in Los Altos. 

• Use an open and inclusive public process to inform the development of the Objective Design Standards. 

The KGA/VMWP Team will:

• Facilitate meetings and workshops with community members, the Planning Commission, and local builders and design professionals to gather input and build understanding. 

• Prepare outreach materials for the City’s website and other City communications channels.

• Prepare an Existing Conditions and Policy Review Memorandum summarizing applicable plans, policies, and zoning. 

• Draft and final Objective Design Standards, including illustrations and graphics, as appropriate.  

• Attend and present at public meetings and hearings.

The project was initiated in August 2026 and is anticipated to be completed in January 2027.