Los Angeles, California, USA

KTGY Architecture + Planning (KTGY) is fusing a historic, Art Deco parking garage into an innovative mixed-use design for new retail and residences in downtown Los Angeles’ Koreantown.

The project, 8th & Western, developed by Jamison Properties, LLP., will create 230 apartments above approximately 13,300 square feet of retail in a new, eight-storey development.

As part of the design, the project combines new building with a 1931, five-storey parking structure (originally “The Pellissier Square Garage”), rehabilitated for parking, retail and rooftop amenities.

“The new complex reflects the history and future of its vibrant Koreatown surroundings,” says KTGY Associate Principal Keith McCloskey.

“The existing parking garage is among some of the oldest reinforced concrete garages in the City.

The new, mixed-use building improves, restores and re-uses it, connecting it with sleek, new apartments and retail, while adding generous rooftop amenities atop the historic building.”

The Pellissier Square Garage was commissioned early in the 20th century, along with the theater and tower, by Marie Julie Pellissier. Both were designed by the famed Morgan Walls and Clements, responsible for other nearby landmarks such as Chapman Plaza and La Fonda restaurant.

The architects and developers are working with historic consultants to preserve the integrity of the existing building, including classic zigzags and chevrons. Its rooftop will be converted to approximately 13,000 square feet of amenities, including an expansive pool deck with city views.

This newly constructed roof terrace will link with the new residential building and approximately 5,000 square feet of indoor amenities via a pedestrian bridge. Additional resident amenities accompany the retail program on the new ground floor.

“The architecture of our new mixed-use building subtly pays homage to the Pellissier Building and The Wiltern through the integration of its cool color tones, and a re-interpretation of their vertical massing elements,” said McCloskey.

“Although the new building is contemporary in style, the vertical balcony slots with angled planes help to capture some of the vertical quality of the surrounding Art Deco history. The result is a fusion of new and old, reflecting one of the most dynamic neighborhoods in Los Angeles.”

The project is scheduled for completion in 2022.

Architects: KTGY Architecture + Planning (KTGY)
Developer: Jamison Properties, LLP.