[LAMetroGuy]

Peterson Building

7001 Hollywood Boulevard, Hollywood, CA

http://www.cimgroup.com/cities/assets/images/pg_hollywood_pertersen_001.jpg

The Petersen building is a two-story historic commercial building located at the northwest corner of Hollywood Boulevard and Orange Avenue. It is owned by the CIM Group. The property owner proposes to add nine floors to the building and create an eleven-story hotel with 300 rooms. Agency staff has reviewed the design concept but the project description has not been finalized. Agency staff will assist CIM in the environmental analysis process, obtaining entitlements and identifying parking. Total projected expenditures in the next five years are $100,000 including Agency labor costs.

Hollywood & Vine

http://www.legacypartners.com/iqimages/res/res_dev_hollywood_exterior.jpg
http://www.legacypartners.com/iqimages/res/res_dev_hollywood_aerial.jpg
http://www.legacypartners.com/iqimages/res/res_dev_hollywood_floorplan.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v600/rpulido/Hollywood/HollywoodandVine2.jpg
http://www.gatehousecapital.com/images/hollywood_3.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v600/rpulido/Hollywood/HollywoodandVine1.jpg

Currently under development, the Hollywood & Vine community calls for an exciting, mixed-use project offering 262 luxury apartments, a 300-room hotel (with 96 luxury condominiums to be operated by W Hotels) and over 60,000 square feet of street level retail space. Supporting these diverse uses will be two to three levels of subterranean parking.

Two, 12-story buildings facing Hollywood Boulevard will house the hotel and condominiums. The base of these buildings will be devoted to retail stores, restaurants and an MTA station. These steel frame, high-rise buildings will total approximately 297,000 square feet.

A third, five-story building ? fronting on Vine Street, Selma Avenue and Argyle Avenue ? will provide 262 luxury apartments situated above 55,000 square feet of retail space.

Hollywood & Vine, which will be available for leasing in 2007, is being developed by Legacy Partners and Gatehouse Capital.

The Broadway Building

http://www.kfparchitects.com/graphics/med-bh2.jpg

The Broadway Hollywood building was originally constructed in 1927 as the Broadway Department Store. It is a 10 story concrete and steel structure that was designed in the Classical Revival Style. In 1939 Donald Parkinson designed a 8 story addition to the west of the original structure. Interestingly, this addition was not designed to match the original building, but has it?s own identity as a Streamline Moderne structure. Over the years the building has been converted into office space for a variety of tenants.

The proposed renovation and reuse of this property, coverts the existing buildings into luxury residential condominiums with parking on the basement and mezzanine levels and retail/restaurant uses on the street level. The residential portion of the project includes a historically sensitive addition on the 1940?s building which will bring it?s height in line with that of the original structure. The units will range from 850 square feet to 2000 square feet; the majority will be one level with some rising up to three levels. The design concept within the units is one of open and flexible space. There are bedroom locations highlighted on the plans, but dividing walls will not be constructed in order to allow the future owners the utmost flexibility of lifestyle. The roof area will be developed with an exercise room, Jacuzzi, swimming pool and cabanas. The layout will highlight the spectacular views of the Hollywood Sign and Hollywood Boulevard to the west. The construction on this project is anticipated to begin Spring of 2005.

Major Mixed-Use Project Planned for Pantages Area

http://thetransitcoalition.us/Pictures/LABJ29941206b.jpg

After turning away developers for more than two decades, the family that owns the Pantages Theatre is planning a $300 million entertainment-themed development that would surround the Hollywood facility.
A deal with an unnamed New York developer could be reached within weeks for a mixed-use project that would contain entertainment, housing and subterranean parking, among other possible features, said Neil Papiano, an attorney representing Nederlander Producing Co. of America Inc.

It would dovetail with other large housing, retail and hospitality developments already under way in the area surrounding the intersection of Hollywood Boulevard and Vine Street.

James M. Nederlander, who runs the family company that owns the Pantages and several acres of surface parking lots along Hollywood Boulevard, wants to redevelop the stretch east of Vine Street as an entertainment and theater destination, said Papiano, a partner at Iverson Yoakum Papiano & Hatch.

Until now, no developer’s proposal has measured up to his vision. But nearby projects have taken root, and changed the outlook for the type of project Nederlander has in mind.

Adjacent to the site, Dallas-based Gatehouse Capital Corp. and Foster City-based Legacy Partners Inc. are seeking final approvals to develop a $325 million complex of housing and retail anchored by a nearly 300-room W Hotel. Condo conversions at the Equitable Building and the Hollywood & Vine Plaza are also under way.

In April, Nederlander hired the New York-based real estate investment firm Holiday Fenoglio Fowler LP to recruit developers, and the proposal from the New York developer has emerged as a frontrunner. A contract could be in place within six to eight weeks, Papiano said.

The developer’s proposal calls for a $300 million mixed-use project with shops, restaurants, housing and an expansive underground parking garage, according to attorney Benjamin Reznik, a partner with Jeffer Mangels Butler & Marmaro LLP, who is representing the New York developer.

Nederlander, whose company owns 26 theaters worldwide, is also interested in a boutique hotel and possibly a second live theater for plays. Papiano said Nederlander recognizes that putting all those pieces together into one development may not be feasible yet.

Reznik said neither the hotel nor the live theater is in the developer’s current proposal but he said each could still be added. “Right now everything is conceptual to make sure everything is economically viable,” he said.

Both attorneys said their clients believe a deal could be reached between the Nederlanders and the developer within weeks. “I personally believe we could have an agreement by the end of the year,” Papiano said. “That being said, (Nederlander) has waited this long so I don’t think we’re in any sort of rush either.”

Nederlander, who runs the company with his son, is not interested in selling any of his property and, because he wants to retain control over the development of the site, he will only consider entering into long term land leases. He did not respond to a request for an interview.

Beyond the surface parking lots, the Nederlanders own a patchwork of properties extending east along Hollywood Boulevard from the Pantages that includes the Henry Fonda Music Box Theatre and the Hollywood Palladium.

The family also owns the Wilshire Theatre in Beverly Hills and has a long-term lease with the city of Los Angeles to operate and manage the Greek Theatre in Griffith Park. Though the company is mostly based in New York, it is co-headquartered in Hollywood, the site of its concert promotion division.

Over the past six years, Nederlander has had about five serious offers to develop its Hollywood Boulevard parcels. Two years ago, a developer proposed building a Hard Rock hotel. Last year another developer wanted to blanket the lots with condominiums and apartments.

But Nederlander feels housing should be off Hollywood Boulevard, Papiano said, toward the rear of any proposed development. Anything on the boulevard “should all be entertainment-related or commercial-related.”

Until now, this agenda may have been economically unfeasible. But with the large number of apartments and condominiums under development nearby, an active restaurant and club scene, and the W Hotel going up across the street, that situation has changed, Papiano said.

“I get the feeling people out there looking at this feel more confident of what he has in mind than they did previously,” he said. “The kinds of proposals we get now are much closer to his original vision.”

Because so many developers had unsuccessfully courted the Nederlanders, builders and civic leaders said they had written off any construction for decades. For that reason, officials at the city’s Community Redevelopment Agency were surprised when Joseph Morningstar, a senior managing director at Holiday Fenoglio Fowler, notified them Nederlander had retained the firm. So were officials in the office of Councilman Eric Garcetti, whose 13th District includes the site.

“It’s more than they have ever done before,” said Josh Kamensky, Garcetti’s press deputy. “No one has been courted by more convinced suitors than the Nederlanders. Now, however, they are the ones pitching the idea of developing those parcels so there’s a sense it’s more serious than it has ever been before.”

Helmi Hisserich, deputy administrator for the CRA’s Hollywood region, said Nederlander had always wanted to develop the area to build more parking for the Pantages and give theatergoers more activities once shows let out.

Hisserich said construction on the Hollywood & Vine project that features the W Hotel could begin in 2006 and take two years to complete. She said it was feasible Nederlander could begin construction on a project by that time as well.

“It’s doable, totally doable,” she said. “We’ve always anticipated there would be higher density development at Hollywood and Vine.”

Still, Papiano said Nederlander hasn’t signed an agreement and could still decide to hold off on developing the land. “He takes the long view,” Papiano said. “He didn’t buy all this land to develop it and make some quick money. He’s in it for the long haul.”

Hollywood & Orange Building

http://www.jagarchitects.com/img/or1.jpg
From The Blvd.
http://www.rotoark.com/RoTo_Images/multi/hollywood002.jpg

East to West
http://www.rotoark.com/RoTo_Images/multi/hollywood003.jpg

Rooftop
http://www.rotoark.com/RoTo_Images/multi/hollywood004LRG.jpg

Upper Deck
http://www.rotoark.com/RoTo_Images/multi/hollywood008LRG.jpg

North to South Grand Passage
http://www.rotoark.com/RoTo_Images/multi/hollywood006LRG.jpg
A design collaboration by JAG and Roto Architects, the proposed Hollywood Orange is an ambitious retail center development, sited at the corner of Hollywood Blvd. and Orange, on the west side of the famed Grauman's Chinese Theatre

The program includes multi-level retail, and a rooftop dining terrace with a view of street activity below. The contemporary design of glass and steel has a transparent facade and an open court, promoting fluid interactivity with the street.

[KarLarRec1]

God I hope they change the designs for Hollywood/Orange.

And we really need to get the Peterson Building up and renovated soon! It is a key building in expanding the revitalization of the boulevard.

Thanks for the compilation!

[Bernd]

Agreed about the Hollywood & Orange Building. That does not seem like appropriate design for the area.

[LongBeachUrbanist]

Ditto. It makes Hollywood and Highland look like Rockefeller Center.

[LosAngelesSportsFan]

Thanks for the list. cant wait to see all these under construction. The Hollywood/Vine + Sunset/Vine area is going to be off the hook in a few years.

[LosAngelesBeauty]

^ Don't forget

Hollywood/Vine + Sunset/Vine + Hollywood Blvd down to Hollywood/Highland filled with shops and things to do!

[LAMetroGuy]

As for the Hollywood & Orange building... I kinda like the dramatic affect this building would add to Hollywood.

I was also glad to read about the addition of 9 floors to the Peterson Building, an eleven story hotel on that corner would rock!

Its great that developers are looking up to the sky!

[LosAngelesSportsFan]

Anyone have timelines for these projects, like the Orange and Peerson? I know the orange porject has been mentioned a few times in the past as well but i have never sen anything anywhere else.

LAB, that would be the ultimate goal, to have the whole street be poppin and developed with bars, clubs, resaurants, housing, etc

[LongBeachUrbanist]

IMO, the best thing about Hollywood's resurgence is the residential component, because it will act as insurance for the area during tough economic times and slow tourist seasons. Mid- to high-rise residential will also bring higher standards for the look and feel for the street.

[bobcat]

IMO, the best thing about Hollywood's resurgence is the residential component, because it will act as insurance for the area during tough economic times and slow tourist seasons.

What I like is that much of the new development is not geared strictly for tourists in the way the Hollywood & Highland complex was originally. The only way to truly revitalize areas like Downtown and Hollywood is by first creating an environment that is attractive to the locals. Once that happens the tourists will follow.

[cookiejarvis]

It looks like they've dusted off the plans for that tinkertoy Hollywood & Orange Complex once again. The first time the owners of that parking lot tried pushing that idea, it was met with fierce and vocal opposition from local preservationists. It may have its place, but not next to Graumman's Chinese.

[DJM19]

yeah, that thing should not be next to the Chinese theater. It looks too out of place.

[KarLarRec1]

I wasn't sure which thread to resurrect...

BIG CHANGES AT HOLLYWOOD & HIGHLAND

I was at their website just looking for some news. They'd set up a page giving some details about the improvement projects.

http://www.hollywoodandhighland.com/bigchanges.html

* For one thing, it seems they are now branding themselves as "Hollywood & Highland Center."

* Virgin Megastore (with a stage for live performances)

* Escalator from street to Central Courtyard

* Escalators from Central Courtyard to 3rd and 4th floors. (DUH!!! should have been done originally)

* Improved storefronts (not sure why or where)

* Improved signage (to curb confusion through the maze that is H&H)

* Recent new stories: Lucky, American Eagle, BCBG.

* New stores in the future: Neighborhoodies, Quizno's, Virgin Megastore.

[Bernd]

I wasn't sure which thread to resurrect...

BIG CHANGES AT HOLLYWOOD & HIGHLAND

I was at their website just looking for some news. They'd set up a page giving some details about the improvement projects.

http://www.hollywoodandhighland.com/bigchanges.html

* For one thing, it seems they are now branding themselves as "Hollywood & Highland Center."

* Virgin Megastore (with a stage for live performances)

* Escalator from street to Central Courtyard

* Escalators from Central Courtyard to 3rd and 4th floors. (DUH!!! should have been done originally)

* Improved storefronts (not sure why or where)

* Improved signage (to curb confusion through the maze that is H&H)

* Recent new stories: Lucky, American Eagle, BCBG.

* New stores in the future: Neighborhoodies, Quizno's, Virgin Megastore.

It needs it. Poor H+H was poorly designed by Trizec...instead of open and inviting, it's cold and confusing. Such great potential too!

It'll always have its place due to the prime location, but think of what it COULD have been....sigh.

[LosAngelesBeauty]

OMG!!! Neighborhoodies??? I love that brand!

[igzaklee]

Bernd: the only way they were able to make H+H a reality in Hollywood at that time was to design exactly such a *stand-alone* complex...

funny how times change in new Hollywood--

[LongBeachUrbanist]

* New stores in the future: Neighborhoodies, Quizno's, Virgin Megastore.

According to the website (http://neighborhoodies.com/design/store/store_la.php), the Neighborhoodies store at H+H is already open.

[KarLarRec1]

Cool, thanks! Looks like it's in that alley of shops leading to the Kodak.

[LAMetroGuy]

June 01, 2005

Background: Christopher A. Joseph & Associates prepared the environmental documentation for the Hollywood and Vine Project.

Lead Agency: City of Los Angeles
Project Applicant: Legacy Partners and City of Los Angeles

Daily News
June 1, 2005


Looking to add to the glitz and glamour of the restored Hollywood area, the Los Angeles City Council on Tuesday approved a $325 million public-private partnership to build a 296-room W Hotel as well as condominiums, apartments and retail space.

In its 13-0 vote, the council agreed to put $4.8 million of public funds into the project -- mostly for land acquisition costs in the Hollywood and Vine area. It is in addition to some $40 million already spent on various projects in Hollywood.

"People ask me, why we're doing this, what is the value to the city when we are already seeing good development," said Councilman Eric Garcetti, who represents the area.

"Well, the answer is that for a $40 million investment we have leveraged $1 billion in economic development. And that's more tax dollars into our coffers to hire police, to build parks, to provide services."

The Metropolitan Transportation Authority controls about 75 percent of the land needed to accommodate the project -- the MTA has a Red Line subway station at the intersection -- and the total public investment would be about $4.8 million, mostly for land acquisition, according to the city's Community Redevelopment Agency.

Legacy Partners would develop 350 apartments, including 74 units reserved for low-income renters.

Gatehouse Capital and its equity partner, HEI Hospitality Fund Acquisition, would build the W Hotel, a boutique chain owned by Starwood Hotel & Resorts Worldwide.

The only other W Hotel in the Los Angeles area is in Westwood. The brand is known for chic, modern rooms and amenities such as spas and personal trainers.

The city's past investments in Hollywood have had mixed success, with its biggest failure at the Hollywood and Highland Development, with the original developers selling out for a fraction of the initial cost, and the city losing money on its investment in a parking structure.

Garcetti said the city has learned from its mistakes and has done well overall with its participation in Hollywood.

Still, some owners of small businesses oppose the project, which would abut a $300 million mixed-used project planned by The Nederlander Organization.

Robert B. Blue, whose family trust owns the vintage 1929 Herman Building at 1642 N. Vine Street, said the development would kill his business, Bernard Luggage, at the same location since 1950.

"It is very hard for a business to stay in business after moving from a long-term, established location," he told the council.

"The developers for this project are big boys and girls and can perform the project on a smaller scale, or on the same scale, without taxpayer handouts and government assistance. Just follow the leads of the neighbor across the street, the Nederlander family."

Leron Gubler, head of the Hollywood Chamber of Commerce, defended the project.

"We believe this is a real win-win project for Hollywood and Los Angeles, a tremendous public-private opportunity," he said. "We're having a $325 million project with relatively low public investment. It will be the catalytic project for the Hollywood and Vine area."


(Excerpt copyright 2005 Daily News)

[citywatch]

Robert B. Blue, whose family trust owns the vintage 1929 Herman Building at 1642 N. Vine Street, said the development would kill his business, Bernard Luggage, at the same location since 1950.
How come owners of really nice businesses often are the first to abandon ship, or go bust after a short while, while the owners of no BFD stores end up as hangers-on or nuisances? Blue's store may not be as bad as the bail bond businesses that have become common sights in Little Tokyo over the past few yrs, which some ppl in that hood have complained about, but he's prob not much better either.

Only problem I have with this proj is now that I've heard it has reached a final stage of planning, I grow even more impatient to see it finally under actual construction. I can put up with only so many Ralphs type delays, & I remember several months ago thinking the owners of H & V already had started work on the site near Hollywood & Vine.

[citywatch]

As for the Hollywood & Orange building... I kinda like the dramatic affect this building would add to Hollywood.
I think the design is kind of aggressive for that particular site, next to Grauman's. However, my biggest worry is that the combination of the bldg's look, which may make too many ppl go HUH??!!, & the ability of the hood to support X amt of new retailing could result in H&O becoming a future trouble point on the street. IOW, it could become like one of those mini malls or shopping ctrs in the burbs that are always struggling to survive & attract shoppers. Regardless, I wish the owner would hurry up & get rid of one of the deadzone parking lots on the blvd, which has no business still being there yrs & yrs & yrs after the devlpt of Graumans theater.

[LongBeachUrbanist]

Let's not forget the horrible Galaxy Theater strip-mall thing (I think that's what it's called), to the left of Chinese Theater. I remember going there when it first opened, wondering if people would ever go there. They never did.

[LosAngelesSportsFan]

The Galaxy is the ugliest building in LA. it kills the area and should be torn down and rebuilt as something more attractive and with more of a street presence.

[KarLarRec1]

Correct me if I'm wrong, but I thought I read CIM recently bought the Galaxy building too. I don't think they're renewing any leases either, last time I passed by the place looked really empty, whereas before there was a gym and some stores.

I could be completely off, though.

[POLA]

The building would be okay with just a face lift that opened it up and made it inviting. It's a prime location. And the Knitting Factory is a great venue!

[cookiejarvis]

Anyone know what's going on with the 1960's era office building and adjacent empty lot on the southeast corner of Franklin & Vine? It looks like the whole block has been walled off in preparation for demolition/construction.

[POLA]

Do you mean Franklin and Highland?

[LosAngelesBeauty]

NEW YORK, June 6 /PRNewswire/ -- Hooray for Hollywood! W Hotels
Worldwide, the fastest growing luxury hotel brand in the world, announced
today plans for a new W Hotel & Residences in the Hollywood district of Los
Angeles. Starwood Hotels and Resorts Worldwide, Inc. (NYSE: HOT), W's parent
company, entered into an agreement with HEI Hospitality, a hotel investment
and operating company, and Gatehouse Capital, a Dallas-based real estate
investment firm, who will jointly develop the property, which will be operated
by Starwood.
Located at one of the world's most famous intersections at Hollywood and
Vine, the W Hollywood Hotel & Residences will neighbor the world-famous Kodak
theatre, home to the Oscars. The hotel will feature approximately 300 rooms
and 150 W Residences, a signature restaurant, a rooftop bar, branded 9200-
square-foot spa and 25-yard lap pool.
"Hollywood has long been considered the heart of all that entertains us.
It's only fitting that we chose to build a W there," said Ross Klein,
President of W Hotels. "Our brand's heightened sense of style, design and
'Whatever/Whenever' service will mix with Hollywood's authentic buzz to create
the perfect L.A. escape."
The fifth residential project announced by W Hotels, the W Hollywood will
feature 150 luxurious residences, including one, two and three bedroom units
with spectacular views of the "Hollywood Sign". Residents will have all the
benefits of being attached to a W Hotel, including signature amenities enjoyed
by hotel guests and exclusive access to a private rooftop pool and fitness
center. Owners will have access to the hotel's facilities, including 24-hour
room service, daily housekeeping and concierge services.
"A project like this comes along once in a lifetime", says Marty Collins,
President of Gatehouse Capital, "and we look forward to greatly enhancing the
social design and economic fabric of Hollywood which has enthusiastically
endorsed our efforts. We fully expect to produce something entirely different
than anything currently in the market."
"We are excited to partner with Gatehouse and Starwood to undertake what
will be a very exciting mixed-use development," said Gary Mendell, Chairman
and CEO of HEI. "We believe that the combination of the W Hotel, W
Residences, and highly branded retail will make this Hollywood location highly
appealing to hotel guests and homebuyers alike."
The W Hollywood will offer W Hotel's signature Living Room experience, a
place where guests, residents and L.A. insiders will sip and socialize on the
adjoining outdoor terrace and rooftop club. The hotel's other distinctive
elements include substantial luxury retail space, 16,000 square feet of
meeting, banquet and pre-function space and Wired, a full-service business
center open 24 hours. Guest rooms and suites (including spa suites) will
indulge guests with W's signature beds with feather-top mattress, 350 thread-
count Egyptian cotton sheets and goose down comforters.
The W Hollywood, scheduled to open in 2008, will be the second W property
in Los Angeles, the first being the W Los Angeles - Westwood. Since its
opening in April of 2000, the 258 all-suite hotel has become the most sought-
after venue for Hollywood premieres and after parties. It's also home to the
newly-opened Nine Thirty restaurant and a spectacular 4,000-square-foot
sundeck graced with colorful cabanas which has served as the backdrop for
countless movie scenes and celebrity photo shoots.

About W Hotels:
W Hotels is a global lifestyle brand with 20 properties in vibrant cities
around the world. Inspiring and indulging its guests with thoughtful,
refreshing and stylish experiences, signature restaurants, bars and
destination spas, W has become the fastest growing luxury hotel brand in the
world. Each hotel offers a unique mix of innovative design, comfort and
cultural influences from fashion to music to art and everything in between.
Recent openings include W's first property in Asia, W Seoul - Walkerhill,
which opened in August of 2004 and its first property in Canada, W Montreal,
in October of 2004. Residence properties, offering the W lifestyle at home,
have been announced for Dallas, Fort Lauderdale, Scottsdale and Hoboken. In
addition, there are more than a dozen W Hotels in the development pipeline in
city and resort destinations. For more information, visit
http://www.whotels.com.

About Gatehouse Capital:
Gatehouse Capital Corporation, founded in 1995, is a boutique real estate
investment and advisory services firm based in Dallas, Texas. The company is
a disciplined low volume, high margin real estate development firm that
specializes in highly designed upscale hotel and upscale lifestyle centers
with a hotel component. Gatehouse uses "best of class" institutional partners
to design, build and operate its properties. Gatehouse developments include W
San Diego, W Silicon Valley and W Dallas Victory Hotel and Residences, the
first W Residences. Gatehouse is the largest third party developer of W
hotels. For more information, please visit: http://www.gatehousecapital.com.

About HEI Hospitality:
HEI Hospitality, headquartered in Norwalk, Connecticut, is a leading
hospitality investment firm which currently owns and operates 25 first-class
and full-service hotels throughout the United States under such well-known
brand names as Marriott, Sheraton, Westin and Hilton. For more information,
please visit http://www.heihospitality.com


SOURCE W Hotels Worldwide
Web Site: http://www.whotels.com http://www.gatehousecapital.com
http://www.heihospitality.com

[LosAngelesBeauty]

http://www.gatehousecapital.com/Hollywood.html

[JRinSoCal]

^Hey has this Hollywood and Vine project broke ground already? The website says early 2005 but I dont remember seeing any construction last week when I drove by that area. Maybe I missed it.

[cookiejarvis]

Do you mean Franklin and Highland?

Oops, my bad. Yes I meant Franklin and Highland.

[Bernd]

Located at one of the world's most famous intersections at Hollywood and Vine, the W Hollywood Hotel & Residences will neighbor the world-famous Kodak theatre, home to the Oscars...

Is my geography off, or is this statement completely wrong?

[LongBeachUrbanist]

The W and the Kodak are a mile apart. Creative marketing, is my guess.

[POLA]

Oh, that is soooo wrong.

As for franklin and highland. I haven't heard anything. The empty lot there has been fenced off for over a year now, but just recently, they extened the fence to include the building next door.

[citywatch]

^Hey has this Hollywood and Vine project broke ground already? The website says early 2005 but I dont remember seeing any construction last week when I drove by that area.

I too thought a few months ago that the proj already was under construction, but the press releases I read at the time either were being too optimistic or I misinterpreted them. I think what's really been referred to up until now is that the proj is at the point of being planned, meaning the devlpr is working on paperwork & financing. IOW, the owner prob is still months & months away from even signing on a proj contractor, much less bringing in actual bulldozers & cranes. LAB said he believed the proj won't be under actual construction until next yr.

[JRinSoCal]

^Well that answers that. Thanks citywatch. What about that slender tower on Sunset thats been fenced off for a while? Its supposed to be converted to residences right? Any info, renderings, website on that project?

[LosAngelesBeauty]

^ You can expect that tower to remain dormant for at least a year.

[LosAngelesBeauty]

GlobeSt.com UPDATE: W Hotel Confirms Hollywood Site
By Bob Howard
Last updated: June 7, 2005 01:17pm

HOLLYWOOD-The W Hotel & Residences chain has confirmed that it plans to join the $326-million Hollywood and Vine redevelopment project with a property to be jointly developed with HEI Hospitality and Gatehouse Capital. The property will include approximately 300 rooms and 150 W Residences, a restaurant, a rooftop bar, a 9200-sf spa and a pool.


GlobeSt.com reported last month that HEI had proposed the new W property, but the deal was considered a proposal only. The W chain’s parent company, Starwood Hotels and Resorts Worldwide Inc., has now signed a formal agreement with Norwalk, CT-based HEI and Dallas-based Gatehouse. The hotel will be operated by Starwood and is scheduled to open in 2008.

The Hollywood and Vine retail and housing project is one of the highest profile redevelopments in the city and is being developed under the aegis of the Los Angeles Community Redevelopment Agency. The project area is a 4.6-acre site on the block bounded by Hollywood Boulevard on the north, Argyle Avenue on the east, Selma Avenue on the south and Vine Street on the west. It is near the Hollywood/Vine Metro Rail Station and landmarks like the Kodak Theater, home of the Academy Awards show.

The hotel will be the chain’s second in Los Angeles. Its 150 residences will include units of one, two and three bedrooms with views of the Hollywood Sign. Residents of the units will have access to the hotel, including the private rooftop pool and fitness center, 24-hour room service, daily housekeeping and concierge services.

[Bernd]

^ You can expect that tower to remain dormant for at least a year.

Is that the one that caught fire last week?

[LAMetroGuy]

I can't wait for this project to "break ground"~ Thanks for the update LAB

[citywatch]

This isn't about Hollywood per se, but the Miracle Mile hood is sort of like the southern flank of Hollywood, & so it & hoods farther north, closer to Hollywood Blvd, go hand in hand.

The last few sentences should be interesting to ppl who are following talk about extending the Red Line through mid Wilshire, & news on how inflation in the cost of devlpt locally & worldwide is slowing down timetables & proposals:


LA Business Journal, June 13, 2005

Transformation of Miracle Mile

By ANDY FIXMER 

L.A.’s Miracle Mile is attracting several large-scale projects that could reshape the corridor of museums and office towers. The city of Los Angeles has approved six Miracle Mile projects that would add 757 units of housing and more than 100,000 square feet for ground-floor shops and restaurants.

“It’s just ripe for development,” said Renee Weitzer, chief planning deputy for Councilman Tom LaBonge, whose 4th Council District includes the Miracle Mile. “There hasn’t been any good retail there and there’s a lack of restaurants, but the people living there really want those things.”

Some residents, however, are becoming uneasy about the impact that the development could have. Just to the north is Third Street, where the confluence of the Grove shopping center and several residential developments has added to the area’s congestion. There are also environmental concerns, given the area’s large deposits of methane gas. While some urban planners salute the trend among developers to move inward instead of sticking to the outlying suburbs, there is general concern among homeowners groups and others about the inevitable effect of the additional population. The development activity has also spurred new design guidelines.

“There is no elasticity,” said Bart Reed, executive director of the Transit Coalition, which advocates building more subway and light rail lines. “There is no more room on these streets.”

Rickie Avrutin, who lives in the same house on Curson Avenue where she grew up, worries about the high cost of rents, given the lack of affordable housing in the neighborhood. And she’s also concerned about the projects’ impact on the area. “The street I live on is a narrow street that is now used as a thoroughfare, even with the speed bumps.” Said Avrutin, a neighborhood council member. “It is bumper to bumper during rush hour.”

Weitzer downplays the potential for problems. “As these things come online, people are getting anxious about the added traffic,” she said. “Wilshire is still a good street. You know, there’s going to be traffic in this city and we try to mitigate it whenever we can.”

Running between La Brea and Fairfax avenues, Miracle Mile is home to the Los Angeles County Museum of Art, the La Brea Tar Pits and a bustling office district serving as a base for numerous media companies. But the strip offers few amenities for residents in the neighborhoods to the north and south. Office workers clog the artery during the day but leave it relatively empty at night. City planners have pushed for more housing, especially projects with shops and restaurants on the ground floor. That’s where planners believe the added traffic and density can be more easily absorbed.

“We’ve been looking for a site close to the Miracle Mile for a long time,” said Larry Scott, senior vice president in the Newport Beach office of AvalonBay Communities Inc., which is developing a six-story, 123-unit building with 10,000 square feet of retail. “It has very desirable characteristics.”

AvalonBay intends to rent apartments for about $1,500 a month for a one-bedroom to $3,000 for a three-bedroom unit. “We think those are very attainable rates for that area,” he said. “There’s a lot of demand from people who want to live there.”

Retail rise and fall

The Miracle Mile was developed in the 1920s as Wilshire Boulevard was being extended from downtown to the UCLA campus in Westwood Village and on to the ocean. As the rise of the automobile began to decentralize business in Los Angeles, downtown realtor A.W. Ross developed the commercial strip on the site of a vast oil field. By the end of World War II, Ross’s development attracted upscale department stores, including Desmonds, Broadway, Phelps-Terkel and May Co. But the district began to lose its luster as new areas further west began to open.

“It was what they called a red-line district,” said developer Jerry Snyder, who bought a number of properties in the area in the 1980s. “Lenders wouldn’t lend there and people were moving out.”

Still, Snyder thought the area’s central location could bring people back. He revamped the Museum Square building, home to the Screen Actors Guild, and across the street, built the 1 million-square-foot Wilshire Courtyard buildings, where the Los Angeles Business Journal is located. Snyder also bought and renovated the former CalFed tower at Wilshire Boulevard and Masselin Avenue, which he sold earlier this year to Arden Realty Inc. for about $93 million after signing a large lease to Viacom Inc. that brought the building to nearly full occupancy.

Starting at the intersection of Wilshire Boulevard and Highland Avenue and moving west, some of the large projects under way include:

• Chandler Partners has nearly completed construction on a two-building, 104-unit apartment complex at Wilshire Boulevard and Detroit Street that includes an existing ground-floor store in its design.

• Legacy Partners last month received approval to build a 197-unit condo that includes nearly 34,000 square feet of ground floor retail. The developer could begin construction this summer, which first requires razing the site – a former Office Depot store.

• Publicly traded apartment developer BRE Inc. has approvals for a 288-unit, six-story building on a city block bounded by Wilshire Boulevard, Eighth Street, Hauser Boulevard and Ridgeley Drive.

• J.H. Snyder Co. is building a one-story replacement building for Office Depot at the northeast corner of Wilshire Boulevard and Masselin Avenue.

• Developer David Schwartzman has approvals to convert a small office building at Wilshire Boulevard and Ogden Drive into 45 apartments, though it’s unclear if he will proceed or convert the project to for-sale units.

Construction can be long and costly because of the high water table and deposits of methane gas and crude oil. Developers have to build extra-thick reinforced foundations to withstand pressure from the water table. They also have to install special methane gas venting systems. The gas is filtered and then siphoned through a vent in the roof of the building. “It’s not like an oil refinery where you have a constantly burning flame that burns off the gas,” said Scott, the AvalonBay developer, who said the building’s residents wouldn’t notice the methane being vented from underneath the building. “You won’t smell or see it.”

Still, as AvalonBay was digging out the site for the building’s foundation and underground parking, the developer had to pump out ground water. The water was laced with sulfur, and when it mixed with the air released a rotten smell. Many Miracle Mile office buildings have to regularly pump oil out their elevator bays and underground garages. The weight of the buildings often pushes oil to the surface.

“It’s just one of the quirks,” Snyder said. “Every now and then you have to bring in someone to pump out the tar.”

Those conditions can lead to budget overruns. Even Snyder is having trouble with his Office Depot development, where the cost of construction has doubled to $7 million.

[LosAngelesBeauty]

^ I wonder if LA is the only city in the world that seems to let "little" obstacles get in the way of development.

I mean, all I hear is "Let's stop development because of the potential traffic increases!" Well, how about something a little smarter fuckers? How about SMART GROWTH? How about continuing with development but adding mass transit to the picture? Where's the demand for that?

So there are some methane gas pockets? Did obstacles like bedrock stop NYC from building their subway? Did an ocean stop Hong Kong from building the world's most advanced airport? Did England and France give a damn that an channel separated them?

We here in LA had better start demanding the best. I forget where I read it, but some pundit stated that LA used to be a city with endless bounds and great ambitions, now we're a mediocre society that gets excited over small "achievements." The city is only as good as its people. That's why I'm SOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO glad AV is our mayor because AT LEAST he's been TRYING to live a little larger than people who say "Oh, it can't be done because of this or that." To those I say "SHUT THE FUCK UP!!"

[KarLarRec1]

In the same issue of the LA Business Journal, there was an article about architect firms switching from designing office buildings to residential buildings, because of the change in demand for the two.

Anyway, it spotlighted the firm that designed the MGM Tower, Fox, and SunAmerica buildings in Century City. Basically, the guy who designed those has been hired to design the Nederlander development at Hollywood/Vine -- you know, the development across the street from the W Hotel development and next to the Pantages Theatre.

They asked him for a description of the plans, and he said it was too early, but that he had a lot of ideas. He seemed excited about it.

He's also designing 2 (or 3?) residential towers in Century City, near the MGM Tower. That project was further along, and the reporter saw a big model of the project in the architect's office, noting that the towers were 4 feet tall in the model.

I read this at work (free newspapers!), so I don't have the article...

[DJM19]

If the people care so damn much about the traffic then they should be living anywhere near wilshire in the first place. I dont even know how they would be able to notice an increase, the street is always going to be like that and they will have to adapt or move on out.

[edluva]

The problem isn't just them. They have a right to be concerned about their quality of life, which like most angelinos has been eroded by congestion. Many of these guys have seen wilshire grow from a suburban street into an urban thoroughfare. They aren't urban planners and should'nt be expected to be. The problem of our inability to build rail stems from their attitudes, attitudes which in turn ultimately stem from their built environment.

we're witnessing a failure of american democracy. It's human nature to shoot ourselves in the foot because frankly, individuals can't know what's best for society. LA's homeowners associations and the free market that led to sprawl is testament to this.

[Art]

DJM had a good point.

Then edluva came with an even better synopsis.

You guys made my day just knowing other people are that intelligent.:)

[DJM19]

Even if we build rail, I dont see that making the traffic less of a problem on that street. It seems inevitable that the street will only get worse with time and a subway under it will slow down the problem but not stop it. We are a car culture.

[RAlossi]

Obviously, the only way LA has to grow is UP. There are several options that we can use to accomodate the growth:

1) We can build more freeways at a cost of tens of billions of dollars. These freeways will do nothing to lure us out of our cars, will increase pollution, and eventually will fill up with more of the aforementioned cars. Neighborhoods will be destroyed and divided.

2) We can do nothing at all. We've seen years of doing too little and doing nothing. We've gone as far as we can with this. "If you don't build it, they won't come" obviously hasn't been the case with LA. We didn't build "it" [or we built very little of "it" --infrastructure, that is] and they still came. Homes are unaffordable, traffic is horrible, quality of life is down the toilet.

3) We can put a moratorium on growth. High cost of housing, overcrowded conditions, economic stagnation.

4) We can build more mass transit. The only way to get people out of their cars is to build more subways, light rail, and commuter rail. Each individual project as a single entity may not be the all-encompassing solution to the problem of traffic, but taken as part of the whole, it puts a significant dent in the problem. Every mile of rail laid adds exponentially to the trips taken on transit. It helps make rail travel more convenient for people along the route. A subway extension along Wilshire will not only be useful for those that commute to Wilshire, but it connects that region with the rest of the Metro Rail system. Someone living or working there can now travel to/from Long Beach, Pasadena, East LA, Woodland Hills, Norwalk, Hollywood. This is the only real way to accomodate the growth that LA will experience over the next couple decades.

[LosAngelesBeauty]

Even if we build rail, I dont see that making the traffic less of a problem on that street. It seems inevitable that the street will only get worse with time and a subway under it will slow down the problem but not stop it. We are a car culture.


It isn't about solving traffic DMJ. It's about providing an ALTERNATIVE to the car. Do you think the subway has solved the traffic problems in Manhattan? No. But people can still get around easily with the subway, which is what LA needs.

[DJM19]

Even if we build rail, I dont see that making the traffic less of a problem on that street. It seems inevitable that the street will only get worse with time and a subway under it will slow down the problem but not stop it. We are a car culture.


It isn't about solving traffic DMJ. It's about providing an ALTERNATIVE to the car. Do you think the subway has solved the traffic problems in Manhattan? No. But people can still get around easily with the subway, which is what LA needs.

which is exactly why I hate these nimbys. They complain about new development because of traffic and then they complain about developing public transit (or dont use it).

[LAMetroGuy]

August 26, 2005 – Live The Hollywood Life at New Condo Tower

Article Date: 08/26/05

Full Story:
An exciting new upscale condo project is underway in the heart of Hollywood, as Metro Modern Developers just broke ground on The Hollywood, a five-story development at 6735 Yucca St, just east of Highland Ave and north of Hollywood Blvd. The Hollywood will consist of 54 two- and three-bedroom units featuring spectacular city views, 18-foot ceilings, a resort-style pool and lounge, and two levels of subterranean parking.

The Hollywood is the first significant new condominium project to be built in Hollywood in decades and represents an important element of the ongoing urban renaissance of Hollywood. The development, which is slated for completion in late 2006, should have a significant influence on the future of residential development in the area.

“The design aesthetic of The Hollywood has been created with an eye toward reinventing the modern image of the city,” said Stephen Kanner, from Kanner Architects, the architect on The Hollywood. “Hollywood’s historic art deco architecture will serve as a backdrop for this new landmark that points the way forward, toward a visual style that captures the vibe of today’s Hollywood.”

As vital as the project’s sleek, edgy look will be in attracting buyers, The Hollywood’s location is also sure to be a major selling point. It is positioned in the center of the hottest nightlife in the city, heralding a return to the days when Hollywood was the place to see or be seen in Los Angeles. Rokbar and Lucky Strike, Geisha House and the Egyptian Theater, Nacional and the Knitting Factory—all are just steps from the front door. The project is also a short walk away from the Red Line subway station at Hollywood and Highland, connecting residents to the 17-mile system providing service throughout Los Angeles.

“Because of its prime location, The Hollywood is already a hot property among the young elite of the entertainment industry,” said Gabriel Tauber, managing partner of Metro Modern Developers. “Residents will have the luxury of enjoying a fun night out on the town and then literally walking home to their amazing condo. In the car- and cab-driven culture of Los Angeles, that level of proximity to so many dining and entertainment options is a unique and remarkable amenity.”

[dktshb]

^

They tore down the existing apartments almost overnight. Just across the street of this new development is a span of asphalt parking lots that encompass 2 city blocks (probably the biggest concentration of open air parking lots in Hollywood). I would like to see something happen with these lots.

[cookiejarvis]

And just to think, back in the early eighties even me and my punker friends would be creeped out by the general mayhem of the Hollywood neighborhoods.

Still wondering what's going on at the SE corner of Franklin and Highland Ave. The sheltered walkway is up along the sidewalk and there's a real estate sign on the empty lot promising some sort of luxury (or retirement) apartment breaking ground. The dumpy office building next to it also appears to be either getting a facelift or prepping for demolition.

[LAMetroGuy]

and what's up with the northeast corner of Hollywood and Highland... that building would make a nice something!

[POLA]

The Hollywood is the first significant new condominium project to be built in Hollywood in decades

What about Sunset and Vine? Anyways, five stories isn't anything exciting, But I hope it sparks some more interest in this area.

[LosAngelesBeauty]

^ Sunset and Vine is a for lease property. The Hollywood will be for sale. Of course, the W. the Nederlander's project, and the Sunset Tower will get the most attention when they're completed.

[yeah215]

Some Hollywood Stars Are Fading Away
Famous five-starred streetlights are being replaced with a vintage style as area's revamp continues.
By David Pierson
Times Staff Writer

September 8, 2005

Hollywood Boulevard, that aging starlet, is getting another face-lift. And right now, they're doing the eyes.

Workers are busily pulling down the distinctive boxy street lamps adorned with five stars that have welcomed visitors to the boulevard since the 1960s.

Sure, the lamps are famous enough to have adorned postcards. But to many in Hollywood, they are just an unpleasant reminder of Hollywood Boulevard's sad old days of decline.

In their place are rising faux historic street lamps modeled to look like the ones that lined the street during its heyday in the 1930s.

Which is another way of saying, "Let's forget about the unfortunate '80s."

Twenty years after the Community Redevelopment Agency and other city entities began to clean up the boulevard, Hollywood is the closest it has been in decades to freeing itself of its seedy side.

Today, tourists swarm the intersection of Hollywood and Highland, snapping pictures with Star Wars characters in front of the multistory mall, drinking ice cream floats at the Disney-owned soda fountain or catching a film at the Disney-owned El Capitan theater. Even the Roosevelt Hotel has reinvented itself into a hipper-than-thou hangout, where fashionistas and paparazzi drool over the prospect of entering the hallowed grounds of the poolside Tropicana Bar.

There has been much debate over the years over whether the city's extensive and expensive efforts to revitalize Hollywood Boulevard have worked — and to what degree the city's efforts are responsible for the current boom. The redevelopment agency has spent $120 million in Hollywood since 1986, including $90 million in subsidies just for the Hollywood/Highland complex and millions more for an earlier boulevard face-lift that involved adding statues and spotlights on the street. (The five-star lights were the product of an even earlier redevelopment effort, in the late 1960s.)

The latest effort is comparatively cheap: about $1 million to renovate 154 street lamps. But backers say it's an important move.

"The streetlights are another piece of the puzzle," said Leron Gubler, president of the Hollywood Chamber of Commerce. "They symbolize the coming together of the city and the businesses to restore the ambience of the neighborhood. You have to start somewhere."

The outgoing five-star lamps may be recognizable the world over during broadcasts of the Hollywood Christmas Parade. But they had also become a headache to the city and organizers of that event.

The wiring was deteriorating, shutting off some of the Christmas lights, connected to the streetlights' wiring, during the parade. The wattage was not bright enough to illuminate both the street and the sidewalk, especially on a misty day. And those red stars on the sides of the lamps? Those were supposed to light up.

The new lamps have teardrop heads on two arms at the top, giving them a similar look to the vintage lights that line the Miracle Mile stretch of Wilshire Boulevard. But these lamps also have a third arm hanging over the sidewalk.

"The new lights will help pedestrian traffic," Gubler said. "We want people to feel safe."

They're already paying dividends for Saeid Askari, manager of Hollywood Tourist Gifts, across the street from the Hollywood & Highland Center.

"It's brighter and it looks better," said Askari, 28. "There used to be a lot of drug dealers outside."

Two years ago, he said, someone tried to hold up his store, a high-ceilinged space draped with posters of movie stars and stocked with Academy Award replica statues, refrigerator magnets and Hollywood T-shirts. The would-be burglar didn't get away with any money, but he broke the cashier's hand while lunging for the cash register, Askari said.

"We can close at 1 or 2 in the morning now because people feel more safe," Askari said.

Ruben Bailon, a liberally pierced tattoo artist who runs a parlor near Hollywood and Vine, touts the new lights with the conviction of a Chamber of Commerce official.

"I'm behind anything that will help Hollywood become more positive and get rid of the filth," said Bailon, 31. "Without being tacky, they should give this town a sense of age again."

The lamps have even won over some longtime Hollywood stalwarts who are not completely happy with the district's sparkling new look.

"I think they fit the Hollywood look better," said Gita Bull, an afternoon-shift bartender at the ageless Frolic Room next to the Pantages Theatre. "I mean, I don't sit outside looking at the lights all day, but I like them better."

Ask her about Hollywood/Highland — the mega-development of restaurants, shops and an auditorium that plays host to the Academy Awards as well as concerts — and her face contorts in disgust.

"I don't even go down there," Bull said. "The only attraction is Sephora [a cosmetics shop], because I'm a girl. But it's so tourist-oriented. We need it, but how about the locals?"

Gubler appreciates Disney's investment on the boulevard and said it would not result in a so-called Disneyfication of Hollywood, as some New Yorkers have charged Times Square of undergoing.

"It's in no one's interest to push out the things that make Hollywood unique and edgy," Gubler said. "The intention is not to turn the whole thing into Disneyland. The nightlife is a major attraction. The sex shops I'd rather see elsewhere; I think most businesses would."

Hollywood Boulevard was developed as the Los Angeles area pushed west out of downtown. During the 1920s and '30s, it was considered one of the region's most fashionable districts, home to various boutiques and a slate of department stores.

But after World War II, the boulevard began a gradual decline. By the 1970s, it was known much more as a tourist trap — and a slightly seedy one at that — rather than an upscale shopping area. Crime rose. In 1994 another slap in the face came when subway construction caused the sidewalk to buckle and sink, forcing workers to remove 27 Walk of Fame stars from the terrazzo.

Hollywood's turnaround began later that decade as trendy bars and restaurants opened along Hollywood and Sunset boulevards. Large developments such as the ArcLight theater complex and Hollywood/Highland followed.

It feels safer now, Bull admits, while adding that the sense of danger in 1980s Hollywood was overblown. "You just had to be cautious and not walk on your own at 3 a.m.," she said.

Hollywood historian Robert Nudelman cannot count how many times Hollywood has undergone a face-lift. This time, he says, they've gotten it right with the lights.

"A lot of the time it was basic maintenance that was needed rather than more froufrou" street renovations, said Nudelman, director for preservation issues at Hollywood Heritage. "Then they'd find there was no money to maintain the changes. So then the new things become part of the problem, like the old lights were. The new lights solve that problem because they're brighter and cheaper to maintain."

Nudelman called the old five-star lights "cheesy" and said the new ones adhered to other historical renovations such as the El Capitan and the Hillview Apartments, which were set ablaze in 2002 and have been restored in all their pink glory as in the 1920s, when they were home to silent film stars of the day.

But he's not so kind when it comes to Hollywood's modern updates, such as the Hollywood & Highland Center or many of the bars and clubs.

"They look like boxes with holes punched in them," said Nudelman, 49. "You can't build anything without billboards."

The thriving nightlife only means that life in the daytime is dormant, he said.

And for the resident of Whitley Avenue off Hollywood Boulevard, weekends can be unbearable.

"There's never any parking," he said. "And at 2 a.m., you get the first wave of yelling and screaming, bottles smashing and cars screeching. You talk about the edgy part of Hollywood — try sleeping at night."

The noise may only get worse as redevelopment continues.

There is a $325-million plan to revamp Hollywood and Vine with a hotel, retail shops and condominiums. The historical facades will be preserved on some buildings, while the others will receive a modern makeover.

For those worried that the face-lift will scar the neighborhood's history, Hollywood's honorary mayor, Johnny Grant, points out that touch-up work can always be done.

"The lights aren't historic," Grant said, "but they look it."

[POLA]

Cool.

BTW, here are the revamped Hillview Apartments:
http://i2.photobucket.com/albums/y7/obeck/Yucca%20Thread/IMG_0139.jpg

[LAMetroGuy]

WOW!!! Very nice, and the color matches the stars on the sidewalk!

[colemonkee]

Cool. Finally a building with some decorative framework on the columns and the overhangs. I haven't seen that done well in a long time.

[POLA]

With those "vintage" street lamps, that building will really look cool. This is the route that I hope more of Hollywood goes (halcyon days a la 1930s). BTW, the Hillview apts. will have retail at the front and the basement (which used to be a speakeasy) will be a jazz club.

[LosAngelesBeauty]

What do the old and new lamps look like?


This is fantastic news. If anywhere in LA, Hollywood shouldn't be a quiet residential neighborhood! "This is Hollywood, LA, I hear people say!" Meaning, "Shut the fuck up!" to those who complain about city noise.

You can't escape it though. I was watching 20/20 one night, and they had New Yawkers interviewed complaining about the night life and noise in New York City!

So I guess hearing these little complaints in Hollywood doesn't make me feel so bad. :P

[DaveofCali]

^ People are always going to complain. People want the environment to adjust to them even though they chose to live in that environment in the first place!

[POLA]

Ok, I am now going to complain... Finding parking in Hollywood on weekends is a HUUUUGEE bitch! Most of the apartments there are street parking and despite many surface lots, they only open at night and cost around 20 to 30 bucks!! At some point, public parking lots should be built to help this and or residents should have permitted street parking in the residential areas.

As for the noise? I don't mind it.

[WesTheAngelino]

^ Why the hell should they build public parking when there's 4 metro stops in Hollywood? How about buulding more subway so Hollywierd is accesible to more people w/o a car.

[RAlossi]

^ Don't forget to mention that those subway lines should run past midnight, especially for the barhoppers.

[LongBeachUrbanist]

The area is going to need more parking, preferably structures whose entrances/exits don't add any more to Hollywood Blvd's traffic. Selma and Franklin are the best streets for parking, IMO. These streets should be rezoned to allow structures there.

The Blvd. also needs a local circulator, to help move people around what has become a very large area. Of the proposals I've heard - trolley car, monorail, etc. - none of them seem very feasible. Maybe a special taxi zone would help.

[LosAngelesBeauty]

^ Why the hell should they build public parking when there's 4 metro stops in Hollywood? How about buulding more subway so Hollywierd is accesible to more people w/o a car.


I have to agree with that.

[POLA]

Hollywood is the new Gold Coast

Million-dollar condos want to be stars on the Walk of Fame

By alison manheim - Thurs., Sept. 8, 2005

Developers are betting that young Hollywood will jump at the chance to buy real estate within stumbling distance of their favored hot spots. The odds would appear to be in their favor. With the ever-growing nightlife, restaurants like the Hungry Cat, Rokbar and Dakota and amenities like the ArcLight cinemas and a Metro Red Line that takes you downtown in minutes, Hollywood Blvd. has much more to offer than schlocky T-shirt shops and confused European tourists. "We believe in Hollywood, always have," says Kate Bartolo, senior VP development at the Kor Group, which also engineered Santa Monica and Palm Springs' Viceroy hotels and the Eastern Columbia building in downtown L.A. Kor is now refashioning the 1927 Broadway Department Store building at Hollywood and Vine into 96 loft units that range in size from 931 to 1,999 square feet. "Hollywood and Vine is literally a globally recognized intersection." While the Broadway Hollywood will release its first phase next month, HEI Hospitality and Gatehouse Capital recently announced plans to develop a mixed-use development consisting of a 296-room W Hotel and 150 residences, plus retail, on another corner. Groundbreaking is expected next spring. Los Angeles-based Metro Modern Developers chose Yucca Street as the site of their 54-unit condo development the Hollywood, which broke ground last month and is expected to be completed by the end of 2006. Designed by Kenner Architects, the two- and three-bedroom units range in size from 1,200 square feet to 2,500-square feet. Mel Kimman, a partner in Metro Modern, likens what's happening in Hollywood now to what happened to Venice Beach and Ocean Park in the early 90's. "We figured, if we build something really cool that we ourselves would like to live in, other people would want to live there, too." Despite Yucca's past incarnation as an open-air drug corridor, Kimman isn't fazed by the prospect of marketing a high-end property in a still-gentrifying area. "When people who work in the film or record business hear about it, they say 'sign me up,' " he says. Live, Work, Play Even with a whiff of grit, you're not getting a discount for living in Hollywood anymore. The 90028 area code has seen condominium prices leap 55% since 2001. New development is more likely to feature swanky poolside lounges modeled after hotel bars than rooms by the week. That's the way the Hollywood Community Redevelopment Agency wanted it. "They were very clear on quality issues," says Phil Simmons, president of Laing Urban, which is seeking final approval for a mixed-use project of 180 condos at La Brea and Hawthorne. "They expected a certain level of quality finishes to attract the kind of homeowner that will further burnish the Hollywood area's image." Further proof that Hollywood can't live by cosmos and saketinis alone.

[POLA]

^ The above article had a rendering of "The Hollywood". So here it is:

http://a330.g.akamai.net/7/330/2540/20050908043926/www.variety.com/graphics/photos/vlifeweekend/gohome_right.jpg

Kitchens have stainless steel appliances and European-style refrigerator. Bathrooms feature free-standing wall-mounted sinks. Recessed and indirect lighting throughout. Sports lounge, spa and pool with fiberoptic lighting. Each unit has 2 ½ parking spaces.

[colemonkee]

That's a funky design. Not a big fan of the doo-doo brown color, but the rendering's too small to render final judgement. By the way, other than park a motorcycle, what do you do with 1/2 a parking spot? Hopscotch comes to mind, but you might ding your car if you mess up...

[LosAngelesBeauty]

Looks very similar to Kanner's other apt. in Westwood.


http://img381.imageshack.us/img381/8017/kannerwestwoodapts5wu.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

[citywatch]

This article repeats what most ppl already know about the old Hollywood Broadway bldg, except the part about parking space being inserted on the 2nd & 3rd floors. I wonder how that will affect the look of the bldg's exterior & its array of regular glass windows that once served office or store space?:

LA Times, Sept 13, 2005

Broadway Building Gets Loft Conversion

By Roger Vincent, Times Staff Writer

The historic Broadway department store building at one of the most famous intersections in Los Angeles is being converted to 96 luxury condominiums. Kor Group has started renovation of the 10-story building at the southwest corner of Hollywood Boulevard and Vine Street that opened in 1927 as a Dyas department store and later became a Broadway branch. It has been vacant for years.

Kor's development is part of a burst of residential development in Hollywood, spurred by growing demand for urban living in some of Los Angeles' older communities. There are roughly 2,560 apartments and condos being planned or under construction in the neighborhood, according to the Hollywood Entertainment District, a property owners' group.

Units ranging from about 930 square feet to 2,000 square feet will be built at the Broadway building as open lofts with finished kitchens and bathrooms, said Tyson Sayles, senior vice president at Los Angeles-based Kor. Units are expected to be priced from $400,000 to $2 million when completed in mid-2006. Shops and a restaurant will occupy the ground floor and parking will be provided on the sub-basement, second and third floors, Sayles said. On top will be a roof garden with pool, cabanas, an exercise room and a spa.

The original building was a 10-story Classical Revival style concrete and steel structure, project architect Wade Killefer said. Then, in 1939, an eight-story Streamline Moderne building, designed by Donald Parkinson, was built to the west of the original building — "interestingly, with no effort to match the original building," Killefer said. The conversion will restore the facade of the addition and the exposed brick of the original 1920s structure. It also will add two stories to the 1939 addition, said Killefer, whose firm also designed Kor's renovations of the Eastern Columbia and Pegasus buildings downtown.

Elsewhere in east Hollywood, Santa Monica-based Palisades Development Group expects to start work next month on 60 loft-style condominiums in the 1929-vintage Equitable office building at the northeast corner of Hollywood and Vine, said Avi Brosh, president of the firm. Other developers plan to build 262 apartments, 96 condominiums and a 300-room W Hotel at the southeast corner by late 2007.

Conversion of a former office building to 90 apartments is slated to begin early next year in the tower at the southeast corner of Sunset Boulevard and Vine. Los Angeles developer CIM Group expects to complete the project in 2007, a spokeswoman said.

[LongBeachUrbanist]

^ Hopefully the parking will not be visible from the street (i.e., through the windows). Maybe they can hang curtains from the windows or something, so that it's not so obvious that parking is up there.

[colemonkee]

^ or put reflective glass on the parking levels and progressively less-reflective shades of glass as they go up the tower. reflective glass shouldn't affect people's views out too much. Could look kind of cool...

[citywatch]

Now that I think of it, there are some parking lots that are in totally enclosed spaces, or even underground, such as the huge parking lot that was built below the twin towers of Century City. For some reason I thought if spaces for cars were located above ground, as will be true of tenant parking at the Hollywood Broadway bldg, that automatically meant there had to be lots of open air ventilation, meaning no walls or sealed windows around the perimeter of the lot. But, again, I realize that's not necessarily required for a variety of major parking garages in LA or elsewhere.

[POLA]

BTW, does anyone know of what is being built on the lot at Ivar and Selma? It was a parking lot next to the Vine + Sunset building. It looks huge!

[Bernd]

Great news. Finally, we're getting somewhere with our classic old Hollywood Ave. buildings! Any rumored plans for the First National Bank building on Hollywood and Highland? It's such a great building which looks downright depressing with all the hustle and bustle on that corner.

[ocman]

Faux historic street lamps? AhhHHhhhhhhHH!!!!! :hell:

If you want to have a sense of history, you have to earn it. That means make something contemporary and wait atleast 40 years until we begin to appreciate it in a historical context. But instant history? That's something the makers of The Grove would come up with. This is too low brow.

Atleast in downtown, they are reinstalling the ORIGINAL street lamps.:no:

[Bernd]

^ Did you prefer what they had, ocman?

[DJM19]

Faux historic street lamps? AhhHHhhhhhhHH!!!!! :hell:

If you want to have a sense of history, you have to earn it. That means make something contemporary and wait atleast 40 years until we begin to appreciate it in a historical context. But instant history? That's something the makers of The Grove would come up with. This is too low brow.

Atleast in downtown, they are reinstalling the ORIGINAL street lamps.:no:

I hate when people say that. Its just streetlamps. Maybe I would understand this with a place like the grove which has no history. But this is hollywood. If anywhere in the world is allowed to have a deceptive light system its the city of make-believe.

[citywatch]

Faux historic street lamps? AhhHHhhhhhhHH!!!!!

I hope you're as bothered by, or actually far more bothered by, the many deadzone parking lots & raunchy stores & yahooville bldgs of Hollywood. I've read so many accounts of tourists for yrs & yrs saying how disappointed they were by the hood, and I still recall a writer for Time mag some time ago describing Hollywood Blvd as a street that looked like something out of a Midwestern town, except much seedier.

[LongBeachUrbanist]

For me it comes down to style and quality. The saying "they don't make 'em like they used to" comes to mind.

Any time somebody makes something that resembles design from before the "post-modern" revolution, it's tagged as a historic throwback. Well, a lot of those elements have stood the test of time because they are well-designed, beautiful and functional.

I'd like to see more old-style design and architecture in Hollywood and Downtown. Just so long as it's not called "historical" when it's really not.

[DJM19]

Yeah I love that old-style. They really did something right, and now people throw a fit whenever you try and build it again. I dont even care that its historic, IT LOOKS BEAUTIFUL.

You can knock down all the ugly, nothing buildings of the 1920s that have no design. Those are historic but only for their age.

So, I have no problem with designing any kind of buildings from the past. Even just having buildings inspired by the past, with modern materials and such.

[cookiejarvis]

Actually the tri-lamp luminaire street lights installed in the early 80s did have the unique feature of being color balanced for film crews shooting at night along Hollywood Blvd. At least that's what my cinematography professor told me years ago.

[POLA]

^That's pretty cool fact. It makes sense, they are bright as hell! And they have a white light color temp.

[Wright Concept]

^ Why the hell should they build public parking when there's 4 metro stops in Hollywood? How about buulding more subway so Hollywierd is accesible to more people w/o a car.

It's called Zoning requirements.

[ocman]

This is like Steven Spielberg shooting Schindler's List in black and white. It's so pretentious.

It's not a matter of having the choice between faux historic lamps or crap design. We can neither of those choices and strive for good contemporary design.

[Bernd]

Now you've just gone insane. Spielberg shooting Schindler's List in black and white was an artistic decision, one that photographers make every day. Was Ansel Adams pretentious as well, since he shot most of his pictures in black and white? Crazy!

[POLA]

Dude chill out. Hollywood has A LOT of historic (or vintage, or pre WW, or whatever) lighting. I see nothing wrong with trying to tie in the Blvd. to the pre existing side streets to create a more uniform look. And the girl in the red dress might have been pretentious, but I'm going to have to part ways on the Black and White.

[ocman]

Now you've just gone insane. Spielberg shooting Schindler's List in black and white was an artistic decision, one that photographers make every day. Was Ansel Adams pretentious as well, since he shot most of his pictures in black and white? Crazy!

Ansel Adams shoots black and white as an artistic decision.
Speilberg is not an artist. His choice of black and white was to make the film seem like it was made during Hollywood's golden age. All of his "serious" efforts at filmmaking, I find are completely shallow.

[Bernd]

Now you've just gone insane. Spielberg shooting Schindler's List in black and white was an artistic decision, one that photographers make every day. Was Ansel Adams pretentious as well, since he shot most of his pictures in black and white? Crazy!

Ansel Adams shoots black and white as an artistic decision.
Speilberg is not an artist. His choice of black and white was to make the film seem like it was made during Hollywood's golden age. All of his "serious" efforts at filmmaking, I find are completely shallow.

Of course Spielberg is an artist. You are entitled to your opinion, but, in this case, your opinion is wrong.

[ocman]

Spielberg, an artist? HA! :hilarious

[POLA]

Hmm, looks like I need to have a film talk with someone... anways, the discussion of artists is subjective, and to quote the dude, that's like your opinion man.

[LAMetroGuy]

I read a press release for the "new" INXS band which details their "touring" plans. They are scheduled to perform at Los Angeles' new Virgin Megastore (Hollywood and Highland) on October 17.

Does anyone know if it is open now or will this be their grand opening celebration?

[colemonkee]

Hmm, looks like I need to have a film talk with someone... anways, the discussion of artists is subjective, and to quote the dude, that's like your opinion man.

Anytime the Dude can be quoted, it makes my day. And I'll back you up on the artist part for Spielberg. The guy's made a lot of great movies, not counting Hook and Always.

[POLA]

I didn't go to film school for nothin'

[LAMetroGuy]

I read a press release for the "new" INXS band which details their "touring" plans. They are scheduled to perform at Los Angeles' new Virgin Megastore (Hollywood and Highland) on October 17.

Does anyone know if it is open now or will this be their grand opening celebration?

Anyone?

[KarLarRec1]

Virgin opens Oct. 12.

[LAMetroGuy]

Thanks!