Renovation and addition to historic Town Hall to create “one-roof” workplace for staff and City Council who were spread between inadequate, temporary buildings. Other design goals include improving civic presence on the site, improving flow, incorporating sustainability requirements, and strengthening historic integrity. The historic council chamber maintains much of its character, but poses challenges for modern accessibility, technology, and seismic strength. Ratcliff facilitated comprehensive site planning work involving multiple City Council study sessions to achieve competing goals of accessibility through the historic building entrance, civic presence, and flow. The resulting site concept solves a challenging set of requirements including stitching together two parcels of land at different elevations. The design gives the Town of Colma a solid platform for future flexibility while enhancing historic resources. During the programming and conceptual design phase, Ratcliff also provided comprehensive interior space planning and site modeling in support of the design charrettes. Additional project highlights include: New accessible entry Upgraded building systems New staff and council offices New gallery space Audiovisual technology and accessibility improvements to historic council chambers New outdoor civic space for overflow or community functions

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