Downtown Los Angeles - South Group; Elleven, Luma, Evo and Future Projects

[katfam]

South Group is playing such a large role in development of the Downtown Los Angeles South Park District and has created so much buzz and interest I wanted to create a place that everyone could come and discuss, contribute, find everything here about their developments.

I've spent so much time trying to get new, up-to-date information, which doesn't come easily, that I felt there had to be a better way, so I created this forum in hopes that by bringing it to the masses we can pull together everything about this amazing development.

As a soon to be resident of Elleven (got the 2b/2b north west corner unit) I will keep this forum as up-to-date as I can with the information, pictures, developments that are sent my way.

South Group Website (http://exploresouthgroup.com)

Elleven Website (http://elleven-south.com)

Luma Website (http://luma-south.com)

Elleven/Luma Webcam
http://64.166.201.57/netcam.jpg

Future South Park
http://www.kylefritz.com/SP.jpg

Luma Tower
http://www.kylefritz.com/luma_ne_view.jpg
http://www.kylefritz.com/southover.jpg
http://www.kylefritz.com/ELLEVEN1.jpg

Evo Tower
http://www.kylefritz.com/Evo.jpg http://www.kylefritz.com/EvoPlan.gif

Elleven at Night
http://www.kylefritz.com/westnight.JPG
http://www.kylefritz.com/elevenNIGHT.JPG

Elleven's Neighbor - Grand Lofts
http://www.kylefritz.com/Neighbor.JPG
http://www.kylefritz.com/GLn11.JPG

Elleven from US110 Freeway
http://www.kylefritz.com/fromUS110.JPG

http://www.kylefritz.com/11seast.JPG

[RBR]

Good work, and good idea.

[katfam]

South Group is having the first Elleven resident party on September 29th. So excited to go and meet all the people I'll be living with. I will take pictures of the event and post as soon as I can.

Here is the e-mail they sent out to residents:

--
Join in!

Come meet your new Elleven neighbors. Say hello. Learn a few new
names. See some faces that will soon be familiar. Find out who’s
on your floor.

We’re gathering at The Broadway Bar for an Elleven celebration
on Thursday, September 29 from 6 to 9 pm. It will be a great
time to mix and mingle with your fellow Elleven neighbors, and
to check out a really cool downtown hangout. We have some great
door prizes lined up as well – think ipod, $1000 gift
certificate & more – to show our appreciation. It’s a party not
to be missed.

[Cory]

I can see DT LA becoming like Downtown San Diego with all the condo infill.

[LAMetroGuy]

cool find on the Evo Rendering.... these projects (along with Glass Tower and Grand Lofts) are going to really add to the neighborhood.

[colemonkee]

katfam, welcome to the forum, and congratulations on your new home (I'm assuming you've purchased in Elleven). Great to have a rendering of Evo finally. Can you add that to the Downtown LA Rundown thread in City Compilations? It should be posted there as well. Design-wise I don't think Evo is as clean or modern as Elleven or Luma (it looks much more contemporary, IMO), but I'll take it!

I fucking love the lighting scheme of Grand Ave. Lofts!! Guess it's time to get a camera where I can control the shutter speed...

katfam, when you move in early next year (is it Spring?), we're all going to want updates as to how the immediate neighborhood is progressing. It should be pretty nice, as the Grand Ave. and Met Lofts residents should already be out and about.

[BrandonJXN]

Wow..that's the first time that I've seen a good shot of Evo. Sure is purty.

[LAMetroGuy]

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v600/rpulido/2005%20Loft%20Tour/DSC02561.jpg

[ksep]

I can see DT LA becoming like Downtown San Diego with all the condo infill.

only bigger and better ;)

[katfam]

Just got this email from South Group.....


--
Here’s the very latest from Luma:

This weekend’s Luma sales launch was a great success, with unprecedented demand for this exciting new tower, and a complete sell-out by early Sunday afternoon.If you are interested in reserving at Luma: Please feel free to contact our team at the South Sales Center to inquire about future availability, as a few cancellations occasionally do occur, and to have your name added to the waiting list.

The Sales Center number is 213-622-5400. If you would like to reserve at a future South residence:We will be announcing Evo, our newest residential tower, very soon. If you are interested in reserving at this residence, besure to complete the Pre-Qualification at www.exploresouthgroup.com. If you have already completed this step, then your name is already on the list for Evo and we will send you more information as it becomes available.Your interest in Luma and South is much appreciated and we look forward to speaking with you soon.

Sincerely,

The South Sales Team

[katfam]

THE SOUTH GROUP
FULL PHASE VISION FACT SHEET

THE SOUTH GROUP
• The Los Angeles partnership of Williams & Dame and Gerding/Edlen, renowned urban
innovators known for their transformation of Portland’s Pearl and South Waterfront
Districts

PART OF THE TRANSFORMATION OF DOWNTOWN’S SOUTH PARK
The complete Phases I, II and III of the development will consist of:
• 1.5 million square feet of residential, commercial and parking development
• Over 700 new condominium residences
• 27 two-story townhomes, accessible from the street and directly from parking garage
• Multi-level architecture, creating a neighborhood rather than a series of developments
• Over $250 million in new investment in South Park
• Over 7,000 total jobs


PHASE I – “ELLEVEN” – 1111 SOUTH GRAND AVENUE, SOUTH PARK
• 176 softloft condominiums – no walls, detailed finishes, built-in kitchens
• Four 2-story townhouse units, accessible from the street and directly from parking garage
• 13 story building, four levels of secure parking above and below ground
• 400,000 square feet of new development
• $65 million total estimated cost


PHASE II – “LUMA” – 1100 SOUTH HOPE STREET, SOUTH PARK
• 236 softloft condominiums; includes 2-story townhouse units, accessible from the street
• 19 story building, four levels of secure parking above and below ground
• 475,000 square feet of new development
• $80 million total estimated cost

PHASE III
• 300-350 softloft condominiums; includes 2-story townhouse units, accessible from the street
• 24 story building, five levels of secure parking above and below ground
• 720,000 square feet of new development
• $100 million total estimated cost

ADDITIONAL ENVISIONED PHASE I, II AND III AMENITIES
• Ground Floor Retail, accessible to the whole neighborhood
• Swimming Pool and spa, concierge, secure parking
• Open Space / Urban Park (Mid-block Mews)

GREEN DEVELOPMENT
• LEED Certification by US Green Building Council for sustainable development

DEVELOPMENT SCHEDULE
• Phase II (Luma): Construction to begin June 2005, anticipated occupancy summer 2007
• Phase III: Construction to begin fourth quarter 2005, anticipated occupancy winter 2007/2008

FUTURE DEVELOPMENT GOALS
• Total South Park portfolio of 1500 - 2000 units

[citywatch]

Thanks for this thread, Katfam. If you become a regular visitor here, you'll be the 2nd person at SSP who lives in DT (I suddenly recall that LATowers lives in DT too but that SSPer doesn't post as much here---wish he or she would).

That's the first photo of Grand Ave Lofts posted on this board in its almost completed form, with floodlights on. I think such lighting is important in making bldgs & surrounding hoods seem user friendly at night. Also good to read that Luma sold out quickly, for the level of response to such projs will determine the pace of devlpt in the future.

[LosAngelesSportsFan]

Thanks for this great thread. Fantastic news on LUMA! i like the EVO rendering, looks sleek to me. Hopefully i will join you in living in South park in a couple of years.

[LongBeachUrbanist]

THE SOUTH GROUP FULL PHASE VISION FACT SHEET

THE SOUTH GROUP
• The Los Angeles partnership of Williams & Dame and Gerding/Edlen, renowned urban innovators known for their transformation of Portland’s Pearl and South Waterfront Districts



This clarifies an issue I've had. I've seen the development between Figueroa and Flower Streets referred to sometimes as a South Group development, and at other times as a Williams & Dame development. I guess they are one in the same.

Hopefully this successful sales weekend will help push that "Phase IV" into development sooner rather than later.

[WesTheAngelino]

^ I'm really excited about the 27 street accessibly town homes included in this development. I hope it catches on and we see more townhomes in DT and throughout LA. Isn't there a new zoning law which allows for more town homes?

[LAMetroGuy]

I posted the South Group Full Phase Vision Fact Sheet a while ago and everyone noted that the 27 floor count for evo was wrong, everyone is in agreement that it will be 24 stories... I hope that 27 floors is realized!

[katfam]

Thanks for spotting the error on total floors for Evo. I changed it to 24 floors. Wonder why they took off 3 floors?

Found out that South Group had to turn away the last group of potential buyers during the Luma Pre-Sales weekend cause they sold out before they got to them. They also had people asking if they could pay to reserve units in Evo, which I was told by South was breaking ground November 1st.

South Park BID Press Release
http://www.kylefritz.com/southpark_aug17.jpg

http://www.kylefritz.com/southpark_aug17pg2.jpg


Offical City Assessor's Map of South's Lot
http://www.kylefritz.com/5139021.gif

[colemonkee]

^ The sheet says 24 floors. I think the 27 number came from the number of townhomes.

Townhomes are great (there are actually some on Hope just a few blocks north that look pretty nice), but you give up ground floor retail, which activates the street much better. It's a trade-off, but not necessarily a bad one.

[citywatch]

Found out that South Group had to turn away the last group of potential buyers during the Luma Pre-Sales weekend cause they sold out before they got to them. They also had people asking if they could pay to reserve units in Evo, which I was told by South was breaking ground November 1st.

November 1? Of this yr? Wow, the Elleven/Luma/Evo proj is turning out to be a nice change of pace, almost like the opposite of the Ralphs/condo proj, which took months & months & months to finally break ground. I'm hoping the devlprs also are screening out potential buyers who only want a unit for speculative reasons, or to flip their condo.

Now if something starts to jell before Dec with the Medallion proj farther north in the OBD area, these last few months of 2005 really will be a time of....

:tup: :tup: :carrot:

[katfam]

When you buy a unit at Elleven, Luma or Evo the buyer has to sign agreement they won't sale their unit for a minimum of 1 year as their primary residence. It's great that they are forcing everyone to stay for a year cause their are a few projects downtown that I sense are nothing more than a profit for the developer and buyer, which will end up doing nothing for downtown in the long run. With South it will become a real community as only those willing to agree to a year will be moving in and South has taken a lot of thought into creating something that will want to make people stay there.

[colemonkee]

^That doesn't screen out all the flippers, but it takes a very good step towards creating a more natural appreciation rate downtown. I bought my place from an investor who sat on the property for about a year, leased it for six months, then sold (to me) for a very good profit. He never lived in it, but could have claimed it as his primary residence and still qualified to purchase at developments like the South Group's. But the fact that the South Group even has this rule demonstrates that they are trying to build a community and not just a development.

I really think that 11th street will be great in about six months with Elleven, Grand Ave., and Met Lofts opening up. And once Luma is complete, it will create a very nice, walkable street with a lot of retail and a lot of residents. katfam, you made a smart move.

[citywatch]

I sure don't want to see ANY condo proj in DT wrecked by greedy devlprs or shortsighted buyers, referring to ppl who really want a condo for investment purposes, or mainly to flip. The devlpr of the Barry Lofts, as mentioned in another thread by Colemonkee, may be playing the housing mkt as though it were a slot machine & if he comes up with lemons, not only will his proj look bad, but it in turn will cast a shadow over the hood it's located in, meaning the Pershing Sq area around 5th & Broadway.

As for you folks living in DT or soon to be living there, I had to drive all the way from Woodland Hills south to DT several days ago, or from the typical burbs up north in the valley to the center of LA. It was then that I was struck by how much more interesting a home in DT would be compared with the hoods around the north valley & Ventura county. I say that because a few yrs ago I felt kind of sorry for a person I know who lives in DT LA. Now with all the changes going on there, I feel sorry for ppl living in, as one example, Woodland Hills.

OK, maybe such burbs have lower crime rates & fewer (or no) homeless ppl, & more conveniences associated with hoods where a lot more ppl with $$$ live, but big changes there mean something like a new burb-style 5 floor apt bldg down the street or a new chain restaurant next to the mall. IOW, zzzzzz.

[LongBeachUrbanist]

Townhomes are great (there are actually some on Hope just a few blocks north that look pretty nice), but you give up ground floor retail, which activates the street much better. It's a trade-off, but not necessarily a bad one.

Remember, there is only so much retail demand, you don't want to oversaturate the market. So as "second best", townhomes I think will be a good thing. Even in the model megacities (NYC, London, Tokyo) not every building can have retail on the ground floor.

To some extent, retail should be focused along main ped corridors. Hope Street was supposed to be one of these, maybe 9th and 11th as well.

The most important thing at this point is to get enough residents to support retail. This will then draw outsiders, which will promote more retail and streetlife, etc.

[katfam]

I've talked to South Sales Center about the retail they planned on having. They said that the area 'South' is located in isn't zoned for mainstream retail like a Gap or Starbucks. Its zoned for things like a yoga center (which is actually planned for the Met Lofts across the street), Hair Salon, etc. They did say that they were hoping to try and get some type of food establishment.

I think this is a great thing to hear. Yes I wish i could just walk downstairs to a coffee bean, book store and La Salsa, but those things are planned all around 'South' by 2 blocks. In 5/10 years when South Park is full of people, stores, entertainment, towers and LA Live/Staples traffic, South will be a more calm, community like area, yet at the center of it all.

[colemonkee]

Townhomes are great (there are actually some on Hope just a few blocks north that look pretty nice), but you give up ground floor retail, which activates the street much better. It's a trade-off, but not necessarily a bad one.

Remember, there is only so much retail demand, you don't want to oversaturate the market. So as "second best", townhomes I think will be a good thing. Even in the model megacities (NYC, London, Tokyo) not every building can have retail on the ground floor.


You make a very good point there. :cheers:

[colemonkee]

Construction update from the South Group

Elleven: The vertical construction on Elleven is nearly complete! The 12th floor structure was just finished and we are pouring the last of the concrete of the 13th floor and roof support. The building will be topped-out (that's construction speak for "it has a roof on it") by October. Meanwhile, the interior build-out continues, with framing, drywall and electrical completed through the 8th floor. We are also preparing for the first of the finish installations - the meticulous and time-consuming process of building out each individual home with the buyer's personal finish palettes and selections. This will represent the buld of our construction effort as we move into the fall. So, there's a lot going on! We're looking good on timing, and we'll bring you a scheduling update next month.

Luma: Much like Elleven's beginning, it's concrete, concrete, concrete. the foundations and reinforcing steel are in place, with the basement levels beginning to take shape. The structure will start to rise above the construction fence sometime next month. Until then, more concrete.

------------------------------------------------------------------

Just a bit of comparison - The Ralph's project broke ground at least a month before Luma, and Luma is already ahead in terms of production schedule. I realize the total floor area for Luma is smaller, but with a month's head start, Ralph's should be much further along. :no:

[RBR]

Thanks for this thread, Katfam. If you become a regular visitor here, you'll be the 2nd person at SSP who lives in DT (I suddenly recall that LATowers lives in DT too but that SSPer doesn't post as much here---wish he or she would).

I live downtown and I bet a lot more people live downtown as well, but how would you know if they didn't say? Anyway i am trying to move out cause i can't afford these new apartments/condos. Also I 'am after a city view but i still like following the downtown development.

[colemonkee]

^ Actually, we had a LA Forumer Roll Call (http://forum.skyscraperpage.com/showthread.php?threadid=85068) forum a while back where everyone gave their name and where they live. There were only 2 people on this forum that responded with living downtown. But that was then, this is now. Seems like we have at least 4 now.

[Easy]

Just a bit of comparison - The Ralph's project broke ground at least a month before Luma, and Luma is already ahead in terms of production schedule. I realize the total floor area for Luma is smaller, but with a month's head start, Ralph's should be much further along.

I also noticed that the Ralph's project was slower , but I was thinking that it was more Luma/Elleven going up fast than Ralphs being slow. Everything about Luma/Elleven from the initial announcement, to initial construction, to (hopefully) completion seems to be progressing much faster than any other project that I've seen in the LA area.

[LAMetroGuy]

^ I agree, lets hope its the same for their second project in downtown (accross the street from Staples Center). Anyone have any idea on when that is scheduled to get kicked off?

[colemonkee]

I also noticed that the Ralph's project was slower , but I was thinking that it was more Luma/Elleven going up fast than Ralphs being slow. Everything about Luma/Elleven from the initial announcement, to initial construction, to (hopefully) completion seems to be progressing much faster than any other project that I've seen in the LA area.

True. Construction of the Colburn Expansion has also gone very slowly. They had finished digging back when I posted my very first photo update. Five months later, and they're barely above ground. It seems like projects in other cities seem to get out of the ground faster. Perhaps it has something to do with our seismic requirements and/or our inspection procedures.

[katfam]

Remember the first resident gathering is today for ELLEVEN buyers.

6-9pm @ Broadway Bar

I'll have pictures, and hopefully some new info to discuss, from event posted as quickly as I can.

[colemonkee]

Cool! We'll look forward to your update! See if you can get some shots of the Eastern Columbian conversion across the street...

[LosAngelesBeauty]

Remember the first resident gathering is today for ELLEVEN buyers.

6-9pm @ Broadway Bar

I'll have pictures, and hopefully some new info to discuss, from event posted as quickly as I can.


Will you be a future Elleven dweller? :)

[citywatch]

Developers, The South Group, Thrilled by Weekend Sell-Out

Buyers' Response Bodes Well for Success of Downtown Los Angeles Community

LOS ANGELES--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Sept. 29, 2005--The South Group sold all 191 available units in Luma, its second downtown condominium high rise, in a mere seven hours during last weekend's reservation event. The sales represent over $160 million in product.

The Luma tower's residences, on the corner of llth and Hope Streets, sold from $440,000 for an 850-plus square foot softloft to over $2.4 million for a 2700-plus square foot penthouse in the 19-story building. Each buyer paid a $10,000 deposit to reserve a unit. For those who were not able to buy at Luma due to the early sell-out, The South Group will defer them as priority buyers for Evo, their third building soon to break ground. Elleven, the company's first building at 1111 S. Grand Avenue, is also sold out.

"In the last few months, approximately l,000 people signed up on Luma's interest list," said Tom Cody, principal of The South Group. "And we believe the excitement last week surrounding the announcement of LA Live has certainly had an impact on our evolving 'South' neighborhood. These two events are a validation of everything we and others are doing to invigorate the South Park community. People see the opportunity and reality of having a vibrant, cultured, convenient life downtown. They've come to understand, as we do, that there is no substitute for neighborhood and a neighborhood requires more than one beautiful building."

Cody said, "Many buyers currently work downtown and live elsewhere, but they've been looking. Until now, most of what's been available are older buildings being adaptively reused or projects without a compelling environment. Judging from people's enthusiasm, it's obvious they're ready for a new standard in urban living that includes a refined home and amenity-rich lifestyle in an attractive neighborhood."

The architecturally innovative Luma, which features "softloft" condominium homes in an elegant l9-story structure, includes 475,000 square feet of development with ground floor retail and four levels of secured parking above and below ground.

As part of The South Group's commitment to creating a neighborhood within a neighborhood, Luma is the second of a number of projects planned for an area of the South Park, to be known simply as "South." Luma will be surrounded by open areas including a terrace plaza and a pool deck shared with Elleven, its sister building. Ample space will be devoted to lush greenery and gardens for neighborhood gatherings, along with quiet retreats and pathways. Plans are also underway for a park and additional residential buildings nearby.

"Our experience with Luma this weekend not only thrills us," said Cody, "but supports our philosophy of creating a 'community,' and our commitment to green, smart urban design. South has become the choice for downtown living."

About The South Group

The South Group brings together two Portland, Oregon-based developers Williams & Dame and Gerding/Edlen. Luma is part of The South Group's vision for developing several thousand residential living spaces and associated ground floor retail space in South Park.

With the construction of Luma, Elleven and Evo, The South Group, a national leader in environmentally-responsible design, delivers to Los Angeles its first downtown residential buildings to be certified by the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) for Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED). It will offer smart buyers sustainable elements that include an abundant use of natural light, use of low-emitting materials and finishes, water efficient fixtures, appliances and landscaping, a strong emphasis on the use of both locally manufactured and high recycled content construction materials. An aggressive waste management plan ensures that the majority of materials leaving the site are recycled. The South Group's overall goal is to create a mixed-use, environmentally sustainable, pedestrian-oriented, eclectic and compelling South Park neighborhood, with an atmosphere that engages the street to create a neighborhood rather than a series of developments.

Williams & Dame's leaders, Homer Williams and Dike Dame, represent over 70 years of collective real estate experience. The firm uses an organic approach to urban transformation, collaborating with public and private partners to create unique neighborhoods that blend quality housing, vibrant street life and new business opportunities.

Gerding/Edlen is widely respected for their extensive experience building large scale, mixed-use developments. With a fundamental commitment to building environmentally sustainable structures, the forward-thinking company fosters an "eco-friendly," progressive approach to urban living that consistently sets a new standard in community-based development.

For more information about The South Group, visit www.exploresouthgroup.com, The South Sales Center at 707 S. Grand Avenue or call 213-622-5400.

[LosAngelesSportsFan]

Hopefully these exceptionally quick sellouts will prompt them to start construction on the second project that they have in the area. that would be ideal.

[colemonkee]

It'll definitely push up the timeline, but I wouldn't expect construction to start very soon. They'll need to market them first, which usually takes at least 5-6 months for a completely new project.

[katfam]

Sorry guys for the long delay,

:crazy: :crazy:

Have to tell you the Elleven Mixer was SO GREAT!!!! I was able to meet many of my future neighbors. The mix of people were really positive. It wasn't a lot of condo flippers, these people were full of excitement and love of downtown. We were all talking about the parties we want to through and even met with most of the people who purchased the penthouses. They are just as fun and excited to live downtown.

Talked with the South Group Sales Associates for a while and learned that Luma went for $150 more a sqaure foot than Elleven and that when Evo goes on presale it will probably sale for $250 more than Elleven did.

Evo is officially breaking ground November 1st. They are already moving the trailers off Evo's site and building news ones on the west alley entrance to South. They also said the webcam will be offline for a week while they set up the new WEBCAM onto top of the SBC TOWER (formally Transamerica Tower) which will overlook the whole block.

Evo should go on presale when all the contracts are finalized for Luma which should be in April.

Gonna be putting up some great info/pictures next week that I think everyone will be amazed to see. No hints though ;)

[colemonkee]

katfam, thanks for the update. Glad to hear you have a community starting up. Hopefully it will be like the Higgins community and you will have many parties on your roof!

Looking forward to the pictures.

[citywatch]

. It wasn't a lot of condo flippers, these people were full of excitement and love of downtown. We were all talking about the parties we want to through and even met with most of the people who purchased the penthouses. They are just as fun and excited to live downtown.

That's great to know. The supply of new housing in DT still is modest enough & at an early enough stage that it would be pathetic if lots of flippers already were eyeing the place & wanting to move in like leeches. The hood needs ppl who are commited to DT, & its current & future revitalization, not just to their bank account.

I know the condo boom in cities like Miami and San Diego is full of speculators, so many, in fact, that it's ridiculous, even scary, at least to those buyers & lenders who are betting no bubble will burst. Nothing worse than a bldg full of either unsold units or units that are mostly unoccupied throughout the yr.

[colemonkee]

^ You make a good point. I wonder how sales of conversions like Eastern Columbian and the Brockman Building are doing. They're the next two to come on line, along with the Packard Lofts, which, as far as I know, may be going to rental. I could be wrong though.

If anyone has info on sales for these properties (LAB?), that would be helpful. It will be a good gauge of how quickly we might see other properties move forward.

[katfam]

So I heard from South Group that City Officals have been scouting areas for a new baseball stadium and that their main interest and most possible location is in South Park. Seems they have been looking at the area around the Hospital south of Elleven as a site.

Now I can only imagine how many years away something like this would be, but WOW what possibilities lie ahead for South Park.

[bobcat]

Hmm, it seems strange that city officials would be interested in land for a baseball stadium. Dodger Stadium is considered a cultural icon and it's hard to imagine it being torn down. I certainly haven't heard it ever suggested by the owners. Relocating the Dodgers to South Park would be great for the area, however.

[ocman]

Hmm, it seems strange that city officials would be interested in land for a baseball stadium. Dodger Stadium is considered a cultural icon and it's hard to imagine it being torn down. I certainly haven't heard it ever suggested by the owners. Relocating the Dodgers to South Park would be great for the area, however.

Maybe they are looking for something for the Angels.

[bobcat]

Hmm, it seems strange that city officials would be interested in land for a baseball stadium. Dodger Stadium is considered a cultural icon and it's hard to imagine it being torn down. I certainly haven't heard it ever suggested by the owners. Relocating the Dodgers to South Park would be great for the area, however.

Maybe they are looking for something for the Angels.

Haha, I think that's even less likely!

[colemonkee]

I think you'll see Dodger Stadium completely renovated before we see a new stadium build in South Park. The City's in no shape to pay for a $300+ million stadium, and the Dodgers have made no mention of even studying this.

[bobcat]

^Well, the stadium would have to built using private money, but the land could be acquired by the city through eminent domain and sold to the developer. Still don't see it happening, though.

[DJM19]

maybe by baseball stadium, they reall meant something more for little league or anything below majors.

[sbocguy]

The idea of building a ballpark for the Dodgers in South Park was brought up a couple of years ago... I believe the South Group proj. took away a vital piece of land and nixed the deal... that and the media hyperbole over McCourt potentially wanting to move to a new ballpark and redevelop Chavez Ravine turned out to be completely false (the existing stadium's going through a renovation this winter and will stay occupied for a good long while).

About this new rumor, tho... even as a long-time Dodger fan, I'd love to see them move to a new urban ballpark in DT someday. Dodger Stadium's a fine place to watch baseball... nice example of midcentury West Coast modernism, good sight lines, and I've got lots of fond memories of the place. But it's got problems that keep it from attaining Fenway- or Wrigley-like status, like the horrific parking situation (especially on the way out), no convenient mass trans access (could be remedied by letting MTA buses inside the parking gates), nowhere to hang out before/after games within walking distance, etc. So I don't think it'd be the crime some people have said it would be if a new park were to be built, especially if that park could be integrated into the excitement already taking place in South Park.

[LosAngelesSportsFan]

i agree a million % with that ^

[LAMetroGuy]

I was in downtown LA today (October 11) and snapped these great pics of Elleven, Luma and Evo, enjoy:

From a distance:

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v600/rpulido/October%2011%202005%20Los%20Angeles/DSC03985Medium.jpg

Elleven up close:

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v600/rpulido/October%2011%202005%20Los%20Angeles/DSC03996Medium.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v600/rpulido/October%2011%202005%20Los%20Angeles/DSC03998Medium.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v600/rpulido/October%2011%202005%20Los%20Angeles/DSC03999Medium.jpg

Elleven in the back and Luma rising in the front:

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v600/rpulido/October%2011%202005%20Los%20Angeles/DSC04006Medium.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v600/rpulido/October%2011%202005%20Los%20Angeles/DSC04007Medium.jpg

Evo Site:
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v600/rpulido/October%2011%202005%20Los%20Angeles/DSC04008Medium.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v600/rpulido/October%2011%202005%20Los%20Angeles/DSC04009Medium.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v600/rpulido/October%2011%202005%20Los%20Angeles/DSC04010Medium.jpg


Since I was in the neighborhood, I also snapped this pictures of Metropolis Lofts:

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v600/rpulido/October%2011%202005%20Los%20Angeles/DSC04000Medium.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v600/rpulido/October%2011%202005%20Los%20Angeles/DSC04001Medium.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v600/rpulido/October%2011%202005%20Los%20Angeles/DSC04002Medium.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v600/rpulido/October%2011%202005%20Los%20Angeles/DSC04011Medium.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v600/rpulido/October%2011%202005%20Los%20Angeles/DSC04012Medium.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v600/rpulido/October%2011%202005%20Los%20Angeles/DSC04013Medium.jpg

AND I also took some pictures of the Packard Lofts:

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v600/rpulido/October%2011%202005%20Los%20Angeles/DSC03992Medium.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v600/rpulido/October%2011%202005%20Los%20Angeles/DSC03993Medium.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v600/rpulido/October%2011%202005%20Los%20Angeles/DSC03995Medium.jpg

I am shocked how fast W&D build these suckers :tup:

[citywatch]

Thanks for the photos, LAMG. Seems like the last update on this board that showed a few new projs in DT was some time ago. I like how the Elleven bldg is making the former TransAm bldg look less lonely in its part of South Pk.

I was in DT yesterday but just towards the northern part around 1st St. Only thing I can add is that work on the Alexan Savoy is taking way longer than I thought would be the case. The devlpr originally estimated a June opening, & then said something about a Sept opening. But based on what I saw I don't think that apt or condo bldg will be ready for occupancy until at least November.

The top floor balconies of the Packard lofts bldg shown in the last pic would be for daredevils if the devlpr doesn't plan to install floors on the bottom of all of them.

[edluva]

thanks lametroguy. i hate the trellis thingy on the roof of the packard lofts. far cry from a palmer building but still, what the heck is it?

[LongBeachUrbanist]

Might be for hanging signage, lighting, etc.

[POLA]

LAMG, thank you for these photo updates, and all the other ones too!

[danparker276]

Here's some shots I took of the Market lofts/ Ralphs supermarket, while i was doing a walkthrough on 801 grand, early oct.

http://loftla.com/Market/




There are some inside shots of 801 grand at www.loftla.com



http://loftla.com/Market/ralphs.jpg

[colemonkee]

Might be for hanging signage, lighting, etc.

Nah, it's just a somewhat poorly-executed design element that ties into the balcony railings. I personally don't think it's that bad, but it could go and the building would look fine. I think if they wanted to do it right, they would have extended it so it doesn't look so haphazardly placed.

[POLA]

Hey, the dirt is covered! Let the building begin!

[colemonkee]

^Not only is the foundation laid, but it looks like they're setting support beams and rebar for the ground floor. I would hope to see a pour for that in a week or two.

[katfam]

First I want to say great pictures.

I will be putting some pictures up this weekend of Elleven that you will all be excited to see.:hug:

I also wanted to let you all know that I got my VIP South Event invitation in the mail yesterday. I got 2 All Access passes for the event that will be held on October 27 at 6PM.

They are celebrating the topping off and lighting of Elleven, rising of Luma and start of Evo. The mayor is expected to attend among other special guests.

[BrandonJXN]

Hey LAMetro..I was walking around Elleven/Luma/Evo yesterday as well. Did you see a 6'6 black dude wearing a tan shirt with 'Los Angeles' on the front?

If so, that was me. Lol.

[RAlossi]

^^ Take me with you. I'll be your best friennnnd!

[sbocguy]

Thanks, LAMG and danparker... great to see highrise construction return to DTLA. God, that 9th/Flower intersection is going to see such a radical change when all those projects (South Village, Meruelo, Astani) are finished. From parking lots on three corners to streetside retail and residential on all four... potentially a really nice node for South Park and hopefully one of the more aesthetically pleasing spots in all of DT. Now if only I could jump ahead to 2010 and see how things'll turn out... ;)

[edluva]

Might be for hanging signage, lighting, etc.

Nah, it's just a somewhat poorly-executed design element that ties into the balcony railings. I personally don't think it's that bad, but it could go and the building would look fine. I think if they wanted to do it right, they would have extended it so it doesn't look so haphazardly placed.

i think i have a bias against buildings that use california stucco. it's such a characterless material

[RBR]

Thanks for the updates.

[LongBeachUrbanist]

Thanks, LAMG and danparker... great to see highrise construction return to DTLA. God, that 9th/Flower intersection is going to see such a radical change when all those projects (South Village, Meruelo, Astani) are finished. From parking lots on three corners to streetside retail and residential on all four... potentially a really nice node for South Park and hopefully one of the more aesthetically pleasing spots in all of DT. Now if only I could jump ahead to 2010 and see how things'll turn out... ;)

Yeah, DTLA, and esp. South Park, is going to be phat. I'd like to time-machine to 2011, just to be sure that everything is complete, incl. LA Live, Grand Ave, Expo, Eastside, South I-VI, and the dozens of other projects that are being planned/built.

:eek: :D

[katfam]

Got AMAZING pictures of inside ELLEVEN on friday and will be putting them up tonight for everybody. They are moving fast and the mock up unit that they are using to test everything on the 4th floor looks AMAZING from the inside out. So impressive and so much bigger, better from the inside than I thought.

I learned that they have begun water testing the windows and plan to get all the windows in before the rainy season begins so they can work on finishing the inside without have the worry of rain destroying anything.

Also learned that there will be a park built on the site where the boarded up brick building is now. They said its approved and building will be demolished shortly. What an amazing block when its done. Three beautiful towers, nice stores, 2 pool areas, plazas and a beautiful new park.

[LosAngelesBeauty]

^ Yeah, along with Met Lofts, Flower Street Lofts, Glass Tower, Olive Street Tower, Grand Lofts, Hope St. Condo Tower, Packard Lofts, Hope Village, etc. (and even the two new Thom Mayne Towers), that'll really add the much needed critical mass to the immediate area.

[LosAngelesSportsFan]

cant wait for the pics. sounds like a great place. if i only had some money to move there...

[citywatch]

Got AMAZING pictures of inside ELLEVEN on friday and will be putting them up tonight for everybody. They are moving fast and the mock up unit that they are using to test everything on the 4th floor looks AMAZING from the inside out. So impressive and so much bigger, better from the inside than I thought.

Glad to see another new person, esp one who lives in & or works around DT, is posting here. Hope your pics will be shown here no later than TODAY!

[RBR]

Today would be pretty good aswell.

[franman23]

Hi, I'm new to the group. Great pics. I also have a unit at Elleven. Looking forwrd to seeing the interior pics. Do you have one of the corner unit #11 floorplan which is the 2 BR 2BA w/ balcony. That is the one I have reserved. Looking forward to the event this Thursday.

[franman23]

Anyone have any idea what is going to happen to the parking lot directly across the Street from Elleven. Hopefully another tower doesn't go up on that lot and obstruct the view. Doesn't seem like its big enough to accommodate a very big development.

[LAMetroGuy]

Yes, the Glass Tower, a tall structure which I think will be great! I hate it when people move into downtown and don't want another tall tower... ugh!

[LosAngelesBeauty]

^ It's idiotic and people like that should stay in the fucking suburbs. Truly Disgusting in my opinion. How can people be THAT stupid? I'm SO SICK and TIRED of repeating to these block-heads that towers are what create the views. Let's take away the Library Tower since it's the tallest building of them all and blocks the most of your views!!! :sleep:

Let's just leave all parking lots--parking lots--why don't we! That'll make for a fantastic urban environment filled with street life and retail options!

[franman23]

I believe the Glass Tower is going on the corner directly across the street from Grand Lofts not Elleven.

[colemonkee]

I saw a great detailed rendering of Evo at the South Sales Center on 7th and Grand, but I didn't have a camera with me. It looks good though. I'll try to snap a pic next weekend.

[franman23]

I'm all for development of downtown, that's why I am moving there. If another building goes up on that lot, it's not going to change whether I live there or not. Anyways, I don't think the lot is big enough to handle a tall building and I believe there is a two or three story residential building next door which probably isn't going to be razed anytime soon.

I recommend seeking some anger management if my comment made you so upset. Why so much hostility? A simple comment disagreeing is sufficient. I do admit my intial comment was a little selfish but I'm just excited to be moving downtown and hope I do get to keep my view of the downtown skyline. Thought this was going to be a positive board.

[LosAngelesBeauty]

^ It's because I hear CONSTANTLY from people like you who "wish to keep their views." That's called "NIMBYism In The Making." People will literally stare at one tower and call it a "view" (such as Library Tower), but immediately label a proposed tower (which could be JUST AS architecturally beautiful) as "blocking" your views? It's completely contradictory, and hence, idiotic.

[colemonkee]

^ Ha, it is a positive board 98% of the time. LAB is a great contributor, but can get a little opinionated sometimes, as everyone can. Welcome to the board, franman!

On the lot directly north of Elleven (the NW corner of 11th and Grand), I too think it's too small for a really tall tower, partly due to the parking requirements and the size of the lot. However there are ways around that, and I've seen tall thin buildings go up on lots that you would never think it would possible. The four story Desmond building isn't going anywhere.

I think you might be right on Glass Tower going on the lot across from Grand Lofts. If you look at the rendering, the base is pretty significant. To me this view looks like you're standing right in the middle of Elleven looking northeast.

http://img461.imageshack.us/img461/2185/glasstower2sk.jpg

[franman23]

Glass tower looks nice, hopefully it makes it out of the ground.

We can debate the aesthetics and appeal of views til we are blue in the face, but I personally prefer a view of the downtown skyline in the distance versus Joe Blow in the his living room in his boxer shorts across the street. Let's move on.

[RAlossi]

^ I'd prefer that to Joe the Homeless Guy in his boxers masturbating in the parking lot down below! =) Sorry, sorry. Had to.

[katfam]

Yeah I got pictures of Unit #11 and #9 from Elleven. Plus the hallways, terrace, staircase, etc.

So sorry I haven't gotten them up you guys, been working for da money as I got to pay for this condo somehow :nuts:

I will get them up ASAP.

[LAMetroGuy]

^ I'd prefer that to Joe the Homeless Guy in his boxers masturbating in the parking lot down below! =) Sorry, sorry. Had to.

I agree with that!!! Besides, the Glass tower will become part of the downtown skyline, so what's the problem? I think that all parking lots should be infilled with towers of different sizes... those who want unobstructed views of the downtown skyline should move to the hollywood hills or to the homes near the LA Observatory.

[LosAngelesBeauty]

^ Exactly LAMG, they shouldn't move into the MIDDLE of a developing Downtown. You don't move into the middle of Manhattan and bitch about a tower being built. You can always move to New Jersey or Staten Island to get the view of Manhattan. Just like you can move to Echo Park or Hollywood to get the full view of Downtown. You don't move into a developing area and HOPE that no new towers are built. SELFISH AND FUCKED UP is what I say!

Furthermore, South Park is not separate from Downtown, and therefore, when all these towers are built in South Park, it will augment the current skyline to the south *duh*. That will provide a wonderful view to everyone around Downtown LA (ie. anyone from Echo Park to Hollywood to South LA to Boyle Heights). Imagine if Downtown development of skyscrapers was STOPPED or hindered because some guy doesn't want to see another guy in his boxers? An entire tower stopped because of something as INEPT as that reasoning?

People, I'd be scared of this NIMBYism forming. I've been hearing it a lot recently. We could potentially get 60 story towers STOPPED because people are afraid of their views being "blocked."

[franman23]

What's your blood pressure right now, at the rate you're going your not going to be alive when downtown gets fully developed. Relax and lets try to stay positive. I THINK YOU MADE YOUR POINT!

[LAMetroGuy]

What's your blood pressure right now, at the rate you're going your not going to be alive when downtown gets fully developed. Relax and lets try to stay positive. I THINK YOU MADE YOUR POINT!

Dude, you just don't understand! When someone like come to this board and say "Hopefully another tower doesn't go up on that lot and obstruct the view" it just makes some of us crazy. I am just as wound up as LAB about your comment and we just want you to understand that having a tower on that lot is a GOOD thing. Statements lke your original one are just nuts... that's all.

I'M GLAD YOU UNDERSTAND OUR POINT AND WOULD HOPE YOU HAVE CHANGED YOUR OPINION AS TO WHAT GOES UP ON THAT LOT, CUZ REGARDLESS... IT WILL BE A TOWER!!!!!!!!!!!!

GET USED TO IT:

http://img461.imageshack.us/img461/2185/glasstower2sk.jpg

[franman23]

LA Metro - I can appreciate your point of view and respect the fact that you don't have to personally attack others or use profanity in your posts. Let's just move on to another subject.

[POLA]

LAB, I totally agree, however, I would hate for this to put-off our new member Franman to this board and the ideas that we work for. As Franman has made the effort to post on here, let's return the favor by trying to show our views in a calm manner. That way, we can change his mind without him even knowing it! ;) Sorry Franman, hehe! At any rate, if you yell at someone you may cement their beliefs more so. With that said, welcome to the world of city enthusiasts... Careful, they bite!

[LosAngelesBeauty]

welcome to the world of city enthusiasts... Careful, they bite!

:yes:

:eat:

[citywatch]

I'm puzzled that any person can live in or vist DT & not feel that it needs a LOT more new devlpt, highrise or otherwise. For example, I noticed all the deadzone parking lots directly south & west of the converted Subway Terminal bldg, or what's now the new metro417 apt proj. To me those sites cry out "hurry up & build something here!!!!" Now if a new large bldg is located there, that will block the views of some ppl who live in metro417. But in the present layout, the area seems semi abandoned, neglected & unsuccessful, & IMO that is a lot worse than a blocked view.

[LAMetroGuy]

LA Metro - I can appreciate your point of view and respect the fact that you don't have to personally attack others or use profanity in your posts. Let's just move on to another subject.

Franman, welcome to the board, we are all really nice, including LAB... we just are a bit overprotective our beloved city!

:hug:

[LosAngelesSportsFan]

Franman, welcome to SSP! we are a sensitive group that is really excited about our ne downtowna nd the future of LA! glad you have a unit in Elleven. Hopefully, ill be down there myself pretty soon. maybe you can take some pictures of the area once you move in and keep us updated on LA Live and the other developments in the area.

Also, whats the timeline for the Glass tower? it looks great and i think that it would be a great addition to our skyline. And werent the renderings for the hearst towers suppose to come out already?

[bobcat]

Hehe, welcome Franman. People here can sometimes get touchy because DTLA has been in the doldrums for so long that now it's starting to hum it's really maddening to hear anyone suggest that development be held back. You have to remember that the area still hasn't reach a critical mass of residents and that if you want to see the area have the variety of shops, restaurants, and amenities available on the West Side it will only happen with a sizeable increase of downtown residents. That means it's in your best interests to support as many housing projects as you can for the foreseeable future. Anyways, welcome to your new home! :D

[DJM19]

if you want a view of downtown without a tower in front of you, mover to a house on the hills.

[ocman]

^ It's idiotic and people like that should stay in the fucking suburbs. Truly Disgusting in my opinion. How can people be THAT stupid? I'm SO SICK and TIRED of repeating to these block-heads that towers are what create the views. Let's take away the Library Tower since it's the tallest building of them all and blocks the most of your views!!! :sleep:

Let's just leave all parking lots--parking lots--why don't we! That'll make for a fantastic urban environment filled with street life and retail options!

You need to chill. :no:

[colemonkee]

Hehe, welcome Franman. People here can sometimes get touchy because DTLA has been in the doldrums for so long that now it's starting to hum it's really maddening to hear anyone suggest that development be held back. You have to remember that the area still hasn't reach a critical mass of residents and that if you want to see the area have the variety of shops, restaurants, and amenities available on the West Side it will only happen with a sizeable increase of downtown residents. That means it's in your best interests to support as many housing projects as you can for the foreseeable future. Anyways, welcome to your new home! :D

You put it best. The area reaching critical mass is, well, critical for the prolonged success of the area. Franman, when you move in in April (or sooner, hopefully), you'll notice that there isn't a whole lot to do in the immediate area in terms of dining, shopping, dry cleaning, etc. You have more options as you head up to 7th Street, but on the weekend, even 7th Street can seem "closed down".

But if you walk down 11th street right now, you can see that it has the best potential to be a great little retail corridor in the nearest term than most other spots downtown. You have Elleven, Luma and Met Lofts all fronting 11th, with the Packard Lofts one block up with retail along Hope. Larger projects like Glass Tower going up across the block will add density of residents needed to get leases for those retail spots sooner rather than later. This translates into a more lively neighborhood for you to walk around in, more things to do, and more of the services you might take for granted in your current situation.

But back to the topic at hand - the South project - I drove by Elleven on Sunday and saw that they have installed windows on three of the floors along the Grand Ave. side. I'll try to shoot some photos on Sunday when I have some free time.

[LosAngelesBeauty]

^ It's idiotic and people like that should stay in the fucking suburbs. Truly Disgusting in my opinion. How can people be THAT stupid? I'm SO SICK and TIRED of repeating to these block-heads that towers are what create the views. Let's take away the Library Tower since it's the tallest building of them all and blocks the most of your views!!! :sleep:

Let's just leave all parking lots--parking lots--why don't we! That'll make for a fantastic urban environment filled with street life and retail options!

You need to chill. :no:


:???: I think it was you who didn't really like skyscrapers anyway right? If so, you couldn't possibly care about what "we" think.

[ocman]

^ It's idiotic and people like that should stay in the fucking suburbs. Truly Disgusting in my opinion. How can people be THAT stupid? I'm SO SICK and TIRED of repeating to these block-heads that towers are what create the views. Let's take away the Library Tower since it's the tallest building of them all and blocks the most of your views!!! :sleep:

Let's just leave all parking lots--parking lots--why don't we! That'll make for a fantastic urban environment filled with street life and retail options!

You need to chill. :no:


:???: I think it was you who didn't really like skyscrapers anyway right? If so, you couldn't possibly care about what "we" think.

I do care when posters like you are scaring off new members.

[edluva]

Chill, people. damn. and i thought I was touchy.