At its meeting today, the Pasadena Design Commission is scheduled to take its first look at a proposed mixed-use development at 540 S. Lake Avenue.

The project, which would replace a cluster of single-story commercial buildings, calls for the construction of a five-story edifice featuring 62 residential units and 9,885 square feet of ground-floor retail space.

The proposed development, designed by LRCA, is described as featuring different styles on its three street frontages, including South Lake Avenue, Granite Drive, and California Boulevard.  The design is described in a staff report as being contemporary in style, with stucco cladding with accent materials and projecting metal canopies.

The review this week is the first of several hearings for the project, including follow-up presentations to the Design Commission.

The project applicant is listed as Dongdu International, a Shanghai-based real estate development firm.