Category: Real Estate

A Quarter of LA Renters Fear Eviction Over High Rent

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Over a quarter of Los Angeles County apartment renters fear eviction and potential homelessness as rent prices continue to surge. 4 in 10 Los Angeles residents are struggling to afford the cost of rent according to the University of California.

Los Angeles has continued to see its prices be as high as any place to live on the planet. The survey is part of the 2024 Quality of Life Index by the Luskin School of Public Affairs. Los Angeles is now becoming more well-known for its incredibly high rent prices over the classic sunshine, beaches, and wonderful weather.

Los Angeles is already known for its very large homeless population, and if rent prices continue to climb, so will the homeless rates. Los Angeles has seemingly wanted to combat the homelessness crisis in the city, but this will be difficult if the rent rates continue to grow.

The price of purchasing a home in Los Angeles is nearly 1 million dollars. Homes in more upscale neighborhoods such as Beverly Hills are up to around 3 million dollars.

The unrelenting ascent in housing costs has resulted in significant ramifications, especially for those working in middle-class occupations like education and law enforcement, who are priced out of becoming homeowners and forced to live in permanent rentals. Los Angeles rents have also increased, with an average monthly rent of almost $2,700. Renters would be faced with an extremely high financial burden because they would have to make more than $100,000 per year to fulfill the required three-times-the-rent qualification ratio.

The effects of the housing crisis go well beyond just putting a strain on finances; they affect every part of the lives of residents and create a general feeling of unease about the future. Finding cheap housing in the city is becoming more and more elusive, leaving many Angelenos to deal with the very real danger of being uprooted and becoming homeless.

Thanks to rising rents, investors have always seen the Los Angeles real estate market as a stable source of consistent returns. The sustainability of this investment strategy is called into question, though, as experts warn that the city may be getting close to a rent price ceiling as tenant unhappiness increases and eviction fears become more pressing.

Low-income families and marginalized populations are disproportionately affected by the housing crisis in Los Angeles, which exacerbates already-existing social and economic disparities. Rent increases and the impossibility of homeownership feed the cycles of injustice and poverty. Prioritizing fairness and affordability in housing is an urgent matter that calls for cooperation from all facets of society.

Los Angeles’ housing crisis necessitates a diversified strategy that goes beyond conventional policy fixes to address its underlying causes. More affordable housing supply, improved renter protections, and resident-driven economic opportunities are just a few of the areas where significant change will need coordinated efforts by public officials, community organizations, and private investors.

There’s growing concern that renting may become a permanent condition for many, with the dream of homeownership slipping out of reach. In today’s market, it seems only those employed by major tech firms or who have achieved celebrity status can afford to buy a home in Los Angeles.

May 10, 2024
State Farm to Cancel Coverage for 72,000 Homes Across California

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State Farm, the leading insurer in California, has recently made a significant decision that will profoundly affect homeowners and renters statewide. The company intends to terminate insurance coverage for 72,000 homes and apartments. The move comes amidst mounting concerns over the heightened risks of natural disasters, particularly devastating wildfires. State Farm also aims to address what it perceives as outdated regulatory frameworks, which hinder its ability to adapt to evolving insurance challenges.

Set to take effect in the upcoming summer months, the decision represents a notable departure from State Farm’s previous position, following its earlier announcement to cease issuing new home policies in California. The insurance giant has attributed its latest action to a combination of factors, citing rising costs, increased risks of catastrophic events such as wildfires, and the likely limitations imposed by longstanding insurance regulations that fail to adequately address the current dynamics of the state’s insurance market.

Issuing a recent statement, State Farm emphasized the gravity of its decision, highlighting that it was made only after a thorough examination of the company’s financial health and dedication to maintaining sufficient claims-paying capacity for its customers. The insurer reaffirmed its commitment to complying with applicable financial solvency laws, asserting that discontinuing coverage for the 72,000 properties was deemed necessary to address the ongoing challenges it faces in ensuring the long-term viability of its operations in California.

The announcement coincides with ongoing efforts by California’s elected insurance commissioner to overhaul home insurance regulations in response to the state’s increasingly volatile insurance market. The commissioner’s proposed reforms aim to provide insurers with greater flexibility in adjusting premiums while securing commitments to extend coverage in high-risk fire areas. Employing the reform ultimately intends to strike a balance between consumer protection and market stability.

The California Department of Insurance has indicated its intention to closely scrutinize State Farm’s decision, urging the company to clarify and justify its rationale. Deputy Insurance Commissioner Michael Soller expressed the regulator’s duty to hold insurance firms accountable for their actions, stressing the importance of confidence in State Farm’s future strategy to fulfill its obligations to California customers and ensure the stability and integrity of the state’s insurance market.

While the possibility of a formal investigation remains uncertain, State Farm’s decision sheds light on the profound and unpredictable challenges facing insurers in California. Last June, the company garnered attention by announcing its decision to suspend the acceptance of applications for all business and personal lines of property and casualty insurance. Citing factors such as inflation, a challenging reinsurance market, and escalating exposure to catastrophic events, State Farm stood by the urgency of its actions and the imperative to adapt to the insurance market’s evolving risks and uncertainties.

State Farm has clarified that the affected policies represent slightly over 2% of its total policies in California. However, the company has refrained from divulging specific details regarding the locations or criteria used to determine which policies would not be renewed, citing confidentiality concerns and the need to protect sensitive business information. The insurance market continues to evolve, and State Farm’s decision looks to have ramifications for California coverage.

May 1, 2024
Los Angeles House Prices Continue to Rise

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Los Angeles’s real estate landscape isn’t just heating up as summer approaches—it’s sizzling. Reports from Zillow reveal a robust 9.3% climb in home prices this past March from the year prior, with the average single-family home in the sprawling Greater Los Angeles area now priced at an eye-watering $959,400.

The critical shortage of available homes is a significant factor propelling this increase. The market remains fiercely competitive despite a marginal 2% rise in new listings since 2023. Nearly half of the properties sold in Los Angeles recently fetched more than their list price, with homes flying off the market in an average of 13 days—shaving nearly a week off the time to sale compared to last year.

The surge comes amid steep mortgage rates, with 30-year loans hovering around 7.9%. Yet, industry insiders anticipate that even if these rates taper off, the hunger for Los Angeles homes will likely intensify, potentially driving higher prices. This expectation is grounded in the city’s ongoing allure, bolstered by its diverse job market and vibrant cultural scene.

Los Angeles, a global entertainment and innovation epicenter, offers many economic opportunities that attract individuals from various sectors, including technology, fashion, and manufacturing. The city’s economy is diverse, with a burgeoning tech scene in Silicon Beach where startups and significant tech companies converge. Also, Los Angeles’ position as a Pacific Rim trading hub enhances its appeal to business professionals seeking to engage with international markets.

Culturally, Los Angeles is without peer. It boasts an array of experiences, from world-class museums like the Getty and the Broad to iconic music venues such as the Hollywood Bowl. The city’s culinary scene is a mosaic of global flavors, attributed to its rich mix of cultures and the influx of innovative chefs making their mark on the local food landscape. Los Angeles is also known for its commitment to the arts. It hosts numerous festivals, including the famed LA Film Festival and the Los Angeles County Museum of Art’s film series, celebrating the creative spirit.

Moreover, the city’s commitment to sustainability adds to its allure. Initiatives like the Sustainable City Plan transform Los Angeles into a leader in green energy, waste reduction, and water conservation, making it an attractive option for environmentally conscious residents. This green ethos is seen in expanding public transportation and developing green spaces throughout the city, enhancing the quality of urban life.

Outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers are equally drawn to the city’s geography, which allows for beach days, hiking in the Santa Monica Mountains, or skiing in nearby resorts, all within a day’s trip. The mild climate further enhances outdoor living and activities year-round, making it an ideal location for those seeking an active lifestyle.

With a robust 9% increase in property values and no signs of a market slowdown, the investment appeal of Los Angeles real estate is undeniable. The city’s ongoing housing shortage intensifies demand, sustaining high property values even amid fluctuations in the broader economy. Furthermore, with interest rates expected to decline, affordability could improve, potentially attracting more buyers and investors. This creates a fertile environment for real estate ventures, positioning Los Angeles as a prime target for seasoned and novice investors.

April 19, 2024
Chris Pratt Faces Backlash Over Demolishing Historic LA Home

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Actor Chris Pratt and his wife, Katherine Schwarzenegger, face backlash after tearing down a historic Los Angeles home to build a new house for their growing family. The couple purchased the landmark Zimmerman House for $12.5 million early last year.

According to the Robb Report, Pratt and Schwarzenegger submitted a proposal to tear down the Zimmerman House and rebuild it shortly after purchasing the property. Their plans included a complete overhaul of the original structure, which caused outrage from architecture enthusiasts and conservationists. The new home will be designed by Ken Ungar, an LA-based architect known for his farmhouse style. It will feature two stories, a backyard swimming pool, and a pool house.

The original Zimmerman House is a one-story mid-century building that spans nearly 3,000 square feet. Emiel Becksy designed it while working in Craig Ellwood’s office, and it was initially constructed in 1950. After learning about Pratt and Schwarzenegger’s plans, the Los Angeles Conservancy called it a “noteworthy example of Modernist design from this era” in an Instagram post. Others also took to social media to express their disappointment with the couple’s decision to demolish the house.

“Unbelievable the notoriously onerous City of LA [that] doesn’t allow anyone to do anything that makes actual sense,” realtor Julie Chang wrote on X (formerly known as Twitter), “allowed this mid-century modern house to be TORN DOWN.”

Designer David Hill also commented on X, writing, “It’s sad to see icons of modernism needlessly destroyed by insensitive McMansion seekers.”

While this is the first time Pratt and Schwarzenegger have been in hot water for their real estate decisions, it is not the first time the couple has caused controversy. Pratt, best known for his roles in Parks and Recreation and Marvel’s Guardians of the Galaxy franchise, went through a highly public and somewhat criticized divorce with ex-wife Anna Faris in 2017 after eight years of marriage. The couple shares an eleven-year-old son, Jack. Pratt and Schwarzenegger’s relationship began in 2018, and the couple announced their engagement in 2019. They share two children, three-year-old Lyla Marie, and one-year-old Eloise Christina. Pratt is known for speaking about his strong religious views.

Katherine Schwarzenegger is the oldest child of famed actor and politician Arnold Schwarzenegger and journalist Maria Shriver. She published her first book, Rock What You’ve Got: Secrets to Loving Your Inner and Outer Beauty from Someone Who’s Been There and Back, about body image in 2010. As someone who grew up in the public eye, Schwarzenegger felt that her journey with body image issues could help guide other young women with similar problems. Her second book, I Just Graduated . . . Now What?, a survival guide for recent grads based on Schwarzenegger’s experiences at the University of Southern California, was published in 2014.

Since Schwarzenegger has branched out into children’s literature, Maverick and Me tells how Schwarzenegger adopted her dog, Maverick. Her latest work, The Gift of Forgiveness: Inspiring Stories from Those Who Have Overcome the Unforgivable, is a compilation of stories from twenty-two people, including Elizabeth Smart and Tanya Brown, sister of Nicole Brown Simpson.

April 18, 2024
Anaheim Residents Concerned About Disneyland’s Proposed Development Plans

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A proposed $1.9 billion investment to expand Disneyland has created some anxiety in the Anaheim community surrounding the park. At a public forum on Wednesday, April 10, area residents were given their final chance to voice concerns before the Anaheim City Council’s upcoming vote on the project.

Even More of “The Happiest Place on Earth”

Disney’s proposed $1.9 billion investment, which has been called DisneylandForward, targets a 50-acre parking lot near Harbor Boulevard for development. The area would be used for new theme park attractions. The deal also includes the purchase of three public streets by Disney, including Magic Way, which city officials have said is used by as many as ten thousand cars per day. The nearby Hotel District would also be replaced as part of an effort to fill the surrounding area with new hotels and restaurants, as well as entertainment, shopping, and further attractions.

As part of the proposal, Disney must also invest $100 million in the city of Anaheim, money slated for streets, parks, and affordable housing.

Low Wages and High Traffic for Anaheim

In addition to the community members who entered the meeting to voice their concerns, many more protested outside the meeting. Among the community’s concerns was traffic, which has already been a problem for many in the area surrounding the park. The plan proposes bringing as many as 15 million new tourists to the area, as well as creating jobs for 14 thousand more workers. Community members also voiced concern for the low wages of the jobs being created.

Community activists have criticized that only $30 million of the money going to Anaheim will be used for affordable housing. They pointed to a similar project planned for construction near Florida’s Walt Disney World, where $350 million has been set aside for affordable housing.

The Project Impact Report drafted for the proposal agreed that it would cause increased noise, as well as greenhouse gas emissions and other factors that would impact air quality in the surrounding area.

Long-Term Economic Impacts

A Disney-backed study presented potential economic benefits that the expansion could bring over a five-year period, including an additional $30 million in affordable housing, as well as $8 million for area parks and $40 for street upgrades.

“We have been working with the City and our neighbors for over three years and have followed the process the City has laid out for this Project,” wrote Suzi Brown, Disneyland Resort’s Vice President of Communications, in a Thursday email. “It has been thorough and transparent, and we are ready to move forward and need to start planning for our future.”

Anaheim City Spokesman Mike Lyster argued in favor of the idea, saying, “Our city will grow. Our residents deserve good quality services; we need funding for that… Tourism is our primary way to do that.”

The plan is a long-term investment by Disney. While Wednesday represented the last chance that the community had to voice their opinions about the project, the decision will lead to a lengthy period of construction. The DisneylandForward project is meant to be completed over the course of four decades. The vote is set to take place on Tuesday, the 16th of April.

April 10, 2024
HALA Welcomes New Leadership: Meet the Newly Appointed President and CEO

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The Hotel Association of Los Angeles (HALA) is stepping into a new chapter as Dr. Jackie Filla reins as President and CEO of the Hotel Association of Los Angeles (HALA), effective March 25, 2024. Dr. Filla will be taking over from Heather Rozman, who is moving on after more than five impactful years to explore new entrepreneurial ventures.

Dr. Filla’s background encompasses influential roles spanning public policy, academia, and strategic consultancy. Her recent achievements include spearheading policy direction for a City Council office within the bustling environment of LA’s City Hall. Here, she led initiatives that cemented her status as a strategic thinker and a formidable advocate for legislative and policy advancements.

Before her tenure at City Hall, Dr. Filla made significant strides as a Research Director in the Office of Los Angeles County’s CEO. Here, she navigated complex intergovernmental relationships and set strategic policy directions. Her leadership prowess was further exemplified during her time as an LA. City Commission President under the mayoral leadership of Eric Garcetti and Karen Bass. Here, she championed Los Angeles’ national and international interests, including engagements with the United Nations.

Dr. Filla’s academic credentials are equally impressive, grounding her strategic and policy-driven approaches in solid research and analysis. As a tenured Associate Professor of Political Science at Mount Saint Mary’s University, she delved into public policy and research methodology, equipping the next generation of leaders with the tools to drive change. Her educational journey, which began with a BA from California State University, Fullerton, culminated in earning an MA and a PhD from the University of California, Riverside, highlighting her lifelong commitment to learning and leadership.

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Mark Davis, Chair of the Board of Directors at HALA, expressed his confidence in Dr. Filla’s capability to guide the association into the future. “Serving as CEO of HALA is no small feat. It requires a truly unique set of talents,” he noted. “We’re delighted to have Jackie join the team. Having played so many roles throughout her career—as policymaker, analyst, strategist, public servant, and academic—she brings a rare combination of skills to this critical position.”

HALA stands as a pivotal organization within Los Angeles’ vibrant hospitality sector. Since its inception in 1932, HALA has advocated for the interests of the hotel industry, representing a broad spectrum of members from internationally renowned hotel chains to charming family-owned boutiques. Its mission extends beyond mere advocacy, aiming to enhance the professional and personal lives of all individuals within the industry, from executive management to the dedicated hourly staff.

This leadership comes at a crucial time in the hospitality industry in LA. The sector is grappling with several pivotal challenges, including integrating advanced technologies to meet guests’ evolving demands, adhering to increasingly stringent environmental standards, and navigating the post-pandemic complexities.

Moreover, there’s a growing need to address workforce development and retention, ensuring that the industry remains a desirable and rewarding field for professionals at all levels.

Dr. Filla’s leadership is anticipated to harness these opportunities, guiding HALA and its members toward a future where the Los Angeles hotel industry adapts and thrives. Her diverse background and strategic vision are expected to invigorate HALA’s initiatives, fostering an environment of growth, collaboration, and advocacy. Under her leadership, HALA is set to navigate the evolving challenges of the hospitality industry, enhancing its contribution to Los Angeles’ economic and cultural landscape.

March 29, 2024
City of L.A. Takes Initial Steps Towards Acquiring Graffiti Towers Left Vacant by Chinese Real Estate Company

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Finally, addressed in a bold move made by city officials, the notorious “graffiti towers” blighting downtown Los Angeles are headed towards a revival. Crucial measures have been initiated to reclaim the vacant complex left in disarray by a Chinese real estate company’s financial debacle. Initially intended for a luxurious hotel and condominiums, the sprawling towers stand as a stark reminder of a failed project, now adorned with graffiti and marred by dangerous social media antics.

City crews kicked off the first steps last Friday, focusing on removing scaffolding that had inadvertently facilitated trespassing onto the premises. While initially intended for construction, the protective structure inadvertently became an entry point for vandals and daredevils, leading to heightened concerns about safety and public welfare.

Sergeant Gordon Helper of the local police expressed the urgency of the situation, highlighting the potential risks associated with the towers. The unchecked access to the property has fueled rampant graffiti and given rise to dangerous activities like BASE jumping, a disturbing trend spreading on social media platforms. Helper emphasized the city’s commitment to preventing any harm, emphasizing that they cannot have anybody getting hurt, injured, or facing a fatality and are adamant about avoiding such incidents from happening in the area.

The genesis of the problem lies in the financial woes of China Oceanwide Holdings, the Beijing-based developer behind the ill-fated project. Initially announced in 2015 as a part of the company’s expansive ventures in the U.S., the project encountered setbacks in 2019 when Oceanwide faced a financial crisis. The ambitious venture, meant to house a hotel and luxury condominiums, came to a standstill, ushering in the beginning of the towers’ transformation into the infamous “graffiti towers.”

The extent of vandalism and neglect has recently gained widespread attention, tarnishing the reputation of a high-profile area that encompasses prominent landmarks such as Crypto.com Arena, the Los Angeles Convention Center, and the L.A. Live dining and events complex. City Councilmember Kevin de León, representing the affected area, stressed the need for a developer to salvage the situation. In a recent council meeting, he estimated that acquiring and completing the property would demand a considerable investment of $500 million for purchase and an additional $1.5 billion for completion.

De León, determined to rectify the situation, issued a motion characterizing Oceanwide Plaza as a “black eye on an otherwise vibrant part” of downtown LA. His concerns extend beyond graffiti and daredevil stunts, as reports surfaced of thieves pilfering copper wire from the building. The calculated approach to revitalizing the towers involves addressing the aesthetic issues and the structural and safety problems that have grown in the wake of the development’s abandonment.

Los Angeles continues to take decisive steps to reclaim the graffiti-laden towers, illustrating the perils that can occur when ambitious real estate projects and financial challenges collide. The city’s dedication to restoring order to this high-profile area speaks to the implications of such failed endeavors, urging stakeholders to consider the long-term impact on the urban real estate environment and community well-being when making expansion plans.

February 29, 2024
Despite High-Interest Rates and General Distress, California Sees Industry-Wide Growth in Real Estate Market

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Job growth in commercial real estate has reached a seven-year high in Southern California, though finance lending employment has experienced a slight decrease. This occurred during a year of high interest rates and general distress in several of the area’s property markets. The increase may have been helped by significant construction projects throughout the area and employment increases across all industries.

According to the Los Angeles Daily News, which cited data from California’s Employment Development Department, commercial real estate jobs have increased by 3.1 percent over the year. This data, which includes Los Angeles, Orange, Riverside, and San Bernardino counties, shows a 12-month gain of roughly 24 thousand positions. The new total of real estate positions in these areas has reached nearly 804 thousand. It is the largest increase in real estate employment since 2017.

In the same area, jobs in all other industries experienced a 2 percent increase over the last year, increasing by roughly 141 thousand to a total of 7.4 million.

Real estate jobs saw an even greater increase in the Inland Empire. Over the previous year, real estate jobs here increased by 4.9 percent, representing a gain of around nine thousand for a total of roughly 190 thousand. LA County increased by 2.9 percent (10 thousand gained for a total of 379 thousand), and Orange County by 2.1 percent (5 thousand gained for a total of 233 thousand). Real estate jobs now make up 11.1 percent of the workforce in the Inland Empire, 8 percent in Los Angeles County, and 13.4 percent in Orange County.

Some specialties experienced much greater growth than others. Most likely due to the surge of large infrastructure construction projects in the area, as well as a great deal of commercial development, the employment of trade construction specialists increased by 5.6 percent. This added 14 thousand new jobs for a total of 265 thousand. Similarly, employment in civil construction increased by 4.2% percent (5 thousand new jobs for a total of 144 thousand) and building services increased by an impressive 5.9 percent (6,400 for a total of 265 thousand).

Meanwhile, employment in lending and building supplies dropped slightly, though only by just over one percent at worst. Employment in real estate services dropped by a mere 0.1 percent, largely holding stable at around 144 thousand jobs in the noted counties.

The Southern California construction boom is driven largely by residential projects, which began to surge near the end of the pandemic and immediately after. There is also an effort in Los Angeles to add a significant number of residential units—more than 400 thousand, roughly a third of which are set to be affordable housing projects—to the downtown area. This is one of many similar plans taking place throughout LA, which projects that 20 percent of the city’s housing growth will take place in an area representing only around one percent of the city’s land area.

Southern California is also one of the primary sites for a nationwide boom in new apartment construction which is expected to continue until the end of 2025. After that point, experts project the boom in apartments will dwindle, though Los Angeles County’s many developmental plans will continue.

February 9, 2024
$17.75M Mansion in Los Angeles, Owned by Producer of ‘Seinfeld,’ Hits The Market

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Emmy Award-winning producer of Seinfeld, Andrew Scheinman, has turned his creative talents to architecture. He recently listed his latest project, a modern mansion in Los Angeles, for $17.75 million.

This 7,200-square-foot Brentwood mansion sits on a hillside in a private area. The exterior is fashionably modern, with walls made of wood and glass. A manicured garden sits on one side of the home, and one hundred and fifty trees were planted around the house to maximize privacy. The Lower Mandeville Canyon area where the mansion is located is home to a number of Hollywood stars, including Harrison Ford, Arnold Schwarzenegger, Gwyneth Paltrow, and Reese Witherspoon.

Inside the home, the modern, natural theme continues. Wide plank European oak flooring is present throughout the home, which utilizes an open floor plan to emphasize an airy, open feel. Many of the walls are made entirely of glass and face the trees surrounding the home, giving the residents the feeling of being sheltered in nature, even when they are in the middle of a bustling city. “We asked for something modern but warm. Sometimes, modern homes can feel a little cold. We wanted it to be cozy, even with its walls of glass,” said Scheinman.

Luxury pervades each room of the home. The kitchen boasts a marble island, two sinks, a retractable television, and a hidden walk-in pantry. The master bedroom – one of six total bedrooms – includes a fireplace, a large marble and glass bathroom, and a walk-in closet.

A second-floor balcony offers a beautiful view of the Los Angeles skyline all the way to the ocean, emphasized by a wide glass railing. The backyard is home to a large in-ground swimming pool, a covered grill and pizza oven, and an outdoor dining area. Other amenities include an infrared sauna and a home theater with a 165-foot screen.

Scheinman’s new passion for luxury homes has been a successful venture thus far. David Kramer of Hilton & Hyland’s is currently holding the $17.75 million house listed this week. It was designed by award-winning firm Rockefeller Kempel Architects with direction from Scheinman.

The custom-built mansion took Scheinman and his brother, Adam, a total of five years to bring to life. “This is the third house my brother and I have built together,” Scheinman, 75, told Mansion Global. “Once I was out of the film business, I thought this was a nice creative outlet.”

Scheinman’s career in film and television spanned from producing the iconic sitcom Seinfeld to working on major films like The Princess Bride, When Harry Met Sally…, and A Few Good Men. He is one of the co-founders and current co-owners of the production company Castle Rock Entertainment, alongside Martin Shafer, Rob Reiner, Glenn Padnick, and Alan Horn.

Castle Rock Entertainment, founded in 1987, has had a hand in producing hit films such as The Shawshank Redemption, Miss Congeniality, and Friends With Benefits. The company’s upcoming projects include an HBO documentary about actor, comedian, director, and screenwriter Albert Brooks and a sequel to the 1984 mockumentary, This is Spinal Tap.

February 6, 2024
Modern Family Star Jesse Tyler Ferguson and Husband Justin Mikita Share an Inside Look at Their Los Feliz Home

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In the heart of Los Angeles’ Los Feliz neighborhood, Jesse Tyler Ferguson, famous for his role in “Modern Family,” and his husband, Justin Mikita, have opened the doors of their home to fans. This invitation has revealed a blend of contemporary design and personal touches that make their space truly unique.

Their recently acquired residence, designed by Mandy Cheng, offered the perfect canvas for transformation. The house was initially a blank slate and has been meticulously crafted into a haven of warmth and modern aesthetics. It showcases Cheng’s ability to marry the couple’s vision with innovative design elements.

The decision to work with Cheng was strategic. Justin emphasized their desire for a designer who could both challenge their tastes and respect their preferences. This balance is evident throughout the home, where modern design meets personal sentimentality.

Art plays a pivotal role in their home’s ambiance. The couple, who married in 2013, have curated a collection that not only beautifies their space but also holds significant sentimental value. Jesse highlighted the importance of showcasing their meaningful art and collectibles, adding a layer of personal history to the home’s modern backdrop.

One standout piece is a unique gift from Jesse’s “Modern Family” co-star, Eric Stonestreet. To mark the end of the beloved ABC sitcom, Stonestreet presented each cast member with a framed piece of wood, featuring their autographs next to their respective spike tape marks – a color-coded system used on set to indicate where actors should stand during filming. This gift, encapsulating memories of their 11-season journey, holds a special place in Jesse and Justin’s home.

The couple’s sense of humor and love for comfort is reflected in the design of their bedroom, which boasts a custom-made bed, humorously described by Jesse as “a king and a half.” While providing a touch of luxury, this oversized bed also echoes the couple’s playful nature.

Their home extends beyond the interiors to include patios that lend an “elevated campground feel,” as described by Jesse. The backyard is a sanctuary in itself, complete with a guest house, a pool inspired by luxury hotels, and two whimsically named statues – “Joe Jonas” and “Peter” the horse. These outdoor spaces provide a perfect blend of leisure and elegance.

Functionality is also a key aspect of their home design. With two young sons, Beckett and Sullivan, the couple ensured their home was not just a showpiece but a practical living space. The open-concept kitchen, dining, and living room areas facilitate a seamless flow, ideal for family interactions and entertaining guests. Additionally, the playroom, as Justin humorously notes, is a favorite spot for their three-year-old, rivaling his bedroom in terms of time spent.

Jesse Tyler Ferguson and Justin Mikita’s Los Feliz home is more than just a modern abode. It’s a carefully curated space that reflects their journey, humor, and family life. It perfectly blends contemporary design with personal narratives, offering a glimpse into the lives of one of Hollywood’s beloved couples. Their home is not just about aesthetics. It’s about creating a space that embodies their life’s stories and joys, making the perfect home for a truly modern family.

December 28, 2023
Developer Shares Plans to Reimagine the Old General Hospital in Boyle Heights into Mixed-Use Housing and Retail Space

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In a move to revive the landscape of Boyle Heights, Los Angeles County has selected Centennial Partners, a collaboration between Primestor and Bayspring Development, to renovate and transform the historic L.A. County General Hospital. The 90-year-old architectural marvel flaunting grand Art Deco structure once housed medical breakthroughs. Famous as the birthplace of Marilyn Monroe, this iconic hospital is slated to become a mixed-use development project supporting local communities.

First District L.A. County Supervisor Hilda Solis has been a driving force behind the revival of Boyle Heights since 2017. She expressed her enthusiasm about the project’s potential impact. Emphasizing the pressing need for affordable housing, especially on the Eastside of Los Angeles, she stated, “This is a historic moment for our community.” According to the county’s Department of Economic Opportunity, Centennial Partners, the developer behind this project, boasts a robust portfolio of over 50 urban impact projects.

As outlined in a letter from DEO Director Kelly Lobianco, Centennial Partners proposed this project. The group envisions a multi-faceted transformation of the General Hospital into a vibrant community hub. Their proposed plan includes 800 to 1,000 housing units, with a commitment to dedicate at least 30% of the units to affordable housing. The project also encompasses hotels, medical offices, laboratories, retail space, community services, and substantial parking space.

A demand for more affordable housing units was made during the Board of Supervisors meeting. Eva Garcia, an organizer with the Community Power Collective, passionately advocated for 80% affordable housing, reflecting on the community’s urgent need.

In recent years, the Boyle Heights area has faced the challenges of gentrification, resulting in soaring rents and higher rates of homelessness. Repurposing the General Hospital into a restorative village is expected to address these issues. The iconic 19-story building has been non-operational since the 1994 Northridge earthquake. This abandoned property will require extensive restoration, including seismic retrofits, new windows, and other improvements.

Referring to the building’s historical significance, Supervisor Solis emphasized its potential role in alleviating the strain on emergency rooms and providing essential care and housing for vulnerable populations. The project’s vision extends beyond housing, as the Board of Supervisors also agreed to develop a mental health urgent care center, a residential withdrawal and management facility, and a mental health rehabilitation center within the complex.

Renowned actor and producer Edward James Olmos commended this move during the board meeting, highlighting the importance of upholding people’s dignity by repurposing the iconic county asset. Karen Law, a member of the Chinatown Community Land Trust, acknowledged the complexity of homelessness, shedding light on the need for comprehensive solutions.

The Los Angeles Conservancy endorsed the adaptive reuse of the Beaux-Arts building, highlighting its adaptability for humane, new uses. Adrian Scott Fine from the L.A. Conservancy emphasized the potential of the historic building to serve the community in innovative ways.

Estimated costs of the renovation project are expected to reach $1 billion and will be executed through a public-private partnership. Supervisor Solis secured $129 million for the General Hospital project that will combine state, federal, and county funds. While the current plan pledges at least 30% affordable housing, negotiations with the developer might lead to a more significant commitment. This shift would align with Supervisor Solis’ goal of addressing the homelessness crisis through more affordable housing units.

December 27, 2023
Iconic Ace Hotel in Downtown LA to close in early 2024

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The iconic Ace Hotel, at the heart of Downtown Los Angeles, has symbolized urban renewal since its inauguration in 2014. Nestled at the historic landmark, the hotel fueled a decade-long wave of redevelopment. Their presence has helped transform a once-neglected neighborhood into a vibrant cultural hub.

Unfortunately, this famed hotel prepares to close its doors on January 31, 2024. The impending closure was announced by the hotel chain on December 12 on social media. More than the end of a hospitality era, the closure of Ace Hotel marks a major shift for the downtown landscape.

With stark black and white tiles, a Spanish Gothic-style rooftop crown, and an overall hip ambiance, Ace Hotel mirrored the renaissance of Downtown LA. Artists, influencers, and trendsetters were once regular guests. Offering panoramic views of the burgeoning borough, the rooftop of the hotel evolved into one of the city’s most vibrant nightlife spots. Sadly, after the outbreak of the Covid 19 pandemic, the scenario changed drastically as both the hotel and the district it helped revitalize gradually lost their pre-pandemic grandeur.

Amid struggles of post-pandemic revival, the once bustling Downtown LA witnessed the closure of several restaurants that failed to bounce back after the economic setback. Ace Hotel, in particular, faced stiff competition from emerging rivals such as the Hoxton, the Freehand, and Proper Hotels. The ground-floor restaurant of Ace Hotel, Loam, also battled to regain its momentum after taking over from Best Girl in 2021. This was a venture by Providence chef Michael Cimarusti that has been operational since 2017. The initial restaurant, L.A. Chapter, embraced the spotlight when the hotel first opened its doors in 2014.

The announcement of Ace Hotel’s closure was made through a somber statement posted on their Instagram account. Expressing deep gratitude for the support received over the past decade, the hotel bid farewell to its congenial home at 929 S. Broadway. The owners are now aiming to reflag the property into a tech-driven, rooms-only setup, without Ace’s renowned food and beverage offerings. Additionally, Ace DTLA, the cherished Theater for screenings, shows, and performances, will undergo a renovation in management, marking a shift in the cultural landscape.

Ceasing operations at the Ace Hotel is not just a response to the challenging times post-pandemic but also an acknowledgment of the evolving hospitality industry. As the once-bustling hotspot is now facing change, it is boldly navigating through the challenges still present from the global health crisis. According to the official announcement, the closure is not the end but a transformation. The owners expressed hope for a return, leaving the community with an emotional message, “The future is yet in your power.”

As Ace Hotel’s legacy comes to an unexpected end, the downtown community is bracing to welcome a new era. The Spanish Gothic-style rooftop crown, once a place of mavericks and mystics, will now undergo a transformation. This hotel’s closure marks the end of an era in hospitality and a prelude to the next chapter in the evolving landscape of Downtown Los Angeles.

December 20, 2023