There are some impressive new structures in various stages of development/renovation in the LA area right now.  The ones we are going to review briefly here are: Silver Star Apartments, 1249 S. Grand Avenue, Elysian Lofts complex, Capitol Milling Building (renovation) and College Station.

In terms of being environmentally friendly, the Silver Star Apartments is exceedingly impressive.  LA is now able to offer its very first Zero Net Energy  project, featuring houses that are affordable as well! The way it works is by using a Solar Photovoltaic system which covers the project’s roofs.  It also features vertical solar facades which are aesthetically pleasing and can be viewed from the courtyard.  What’s even more amazing is that homes and supportive services will be provided through this project for veterans who have, until now, been homeless.

Moving over to 1249 S. Grand Avenue is 4D Development CEO David Pourbaba who is leading the construction of 115-apartment E (featuring studio and two-bedroom apartments).  This is the company’s first Downtown LA project and is using AFCO Architects designers.  Based in the Beverly Grove neighborhood, each unit will feature: hardwood floors, marble showers, a NEST thermostat system, washer and dryer.  Each unit ABOVE the ground floor will also have a balcony.  Average prices are approximately $3.20 per square foot.

At the LA State Historical Park, there are some major renovations happening within Chinatown, Canyon and Solano neighborhoods. This has the potential to transform the area – that to date has been working-class industrial – into “mid-rise urbanism.” This includes: the Elysian Lofts complex (which is being handled by Lincoln Property Company, S&R Properties, and Newman Garrison + Partners), the restoration of the  Capitol Milling Building and the creation of a mixed-use complex – College Station which will feature 770 dwelling units, 51,000 square feet of ground floor commercial spaces, and parking for 1,179 cars and 899 bicycles.