LAKE FOREST

The Planning Commission took the first step Thursday to create “visual preferences” for office and industrial development in the city by participating in a workshop organized by staff.

The workshop focused on building materials and colors, entry design and how to hide outside mechanical equipment.

Over the last four years, the commission has reviewed more than 50 buildings that have evolved from warehouses to high-tech offices.

There are no design guidelines now for new industrial and office development for areas outside the Redevelopment Project Area.