Architecture committee approves Chick-fil-A pending design modifications for desert climate

The Palm Springs Architectural Review Committee (ARC) has tentatively approved plans for a new Chick-fil-A restaurant at the Springs Shopping Center, requiring several design modifications to better protect employees and customers from the harsh desert climate.

The committee’s approval includes extending overhangs to six feet and adding protective slats to drive-thru canopies, addressing concerns about sun exposure in the desert environment.

The 5,707-square-foot restaurant will replace an underperforming 21,000-square-foot retail building at 5200 East Ramon Road. The new facility will feature indoor and outdoor seating, two drive-thru lanes with stacking for 50 cars.

A representative of the restaurant chain noted that the Palm Desert location, which opened in July 2022, sees approximately “60% drive-through, 40% dine-in” business during peak hours. The Palm Springs restaurant will operate from 6:30 a.m. to 10 p.m. and will be closed on Sundays, consistent with the company’s nationwide policy.

During discussion Monday evening ARC members focused significant attention on climate control features, particularly for employees who will work outdoors taking orders and delivering food. Committee members requested additional protection for staff from sun and harsh conditions.

The committee also addressed landscaping concerns, particular those dealing with several plant selections that might not thrive in the desert climate.

The landscape architect for the project, defended the plant selections but expressed willingness to make changes. “We’ve used a lot of these plants before on our buildings and on different sites,” she said. “I’m definitely open to relooking at some of these.”

The committee also requested that a wall along the east side of the ordering drive aisle be pushed back 24 inches from the sidewalk to allow for additional landscaping, softening the pedestrian experience.

Traffic concerns were addressed during the planning process, with city staff noting that the Engineering Department did not request additional street improvements.

Committee members debated whether the restaurant’s design should strictly match the existing shopping center architecture. While the Planning Commission had expressed concerns about consistency, the ARC ultimately approved the more modern design elements.

As part of the approval process, the shopping center owner has agreed to improve landscaping throughout the property. Staff confirmed that trees have already been planted in many parking lot islands, with more improvements planned.

The committee’s unanimous approval included the formation of a subcommittee to review revised landscape plans before the project moves forward to ensure appropriate plant selections for the desert environment.

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