Large new homes squeezing historic Retreat neighborhood
Summary
Two remodels of century-old homes — one modest, one major — were approved with historian sign-off that they meet the Secretary of the Interior Standards, keeping character-defining features intact.
At a glance
- Total mentions
- 2
- Last 30 days
- 1
Discussed at 1 meeting in the last 60 days; most recently Oct 13, 2026.
Impact analysis
New homes in this area can sell for $2.5 million or more, which residents say prices out local families.
The applicants and, arguably, the streetscape — one project restores original board-and-batten siding lost to later shingles.
Neighboring homeowners who lose privacy, views, and light, and who endure repeated nearby demolitions and construction.
Mentions & discussions (2)
Architectural Review Board — October 13, 2026
Neighbors say new, bigger houses — including 139 7th Street and the proposed 114 9th Street house — loom over historic bungalows and erode privacy, light, and the Retreat's Victorian character. The board has limited leverage when projects comply with zoning, especially where state law mandates ADU approvals. The board leaned on design guidelines to push back on 9th Street.
Historic Resources Committee — May 27, 2026
Two remodels of century-old homes — one modest, one major — were approved with historian sign-off that they meet the Secretary of the Interior Standards, keeping character-defining features intact.
Related development
Architectural Permit (AP) and Historic Preservation Permit (HPP) 26-0047 — 108 15th Street
The house grows to nearly 2,800 square feet but keeps its historic front, restores original siding, and stays in scale with neighboring large homes.
Architectural Permit (AP) 26-0045 — 158 12th Street
Small footprint growth that fills in and better integrates a 1970s-era rear addition without touching the historic front.
We'll email you when it's on an upcoming agenda and when it's voted on, at most once a day.
The weekly brief for Pacific Grove
What the council decided, in plain English — one email a week.
Free. Unsubscribe with one click any time. We never sell your email.