The Pico-Union Historic Preservation Overlay Zone (HPOZ) is celebrated for its architectural eclecticism.
The central Los Angeles neighborhood features a mix of “19th-century Victorian-era cottages, early 20th century Craftsman and Mission Revival bungalows, and larger homes in Period Revival or Classical styles,” according to Los Angeles City Planning. In an effort to retain Pico-Union’s character and charm, new developments are subject to design guidelines and approval by its HPOZ board.
A proposed apartment complex at 1014 West 18th Street seeks to comply with the area’s preservation plan by envisioning a Craftsman-style, two-story façade boasting wood-look shiplap and shake siding in a reddish-brown color. Although it would resemble a detached single-family home from the vantage point of 18th Street, the apartment complex would include 27 units and transition to a three-story structure toward the rear of the lot.
TDC Pacific Properties is behind the proposed multi-family development, which would replace a four-unit apartment building and a 1,400-square-foot auto sales office — both described as “Non-Contributing structures” because they are not architecturally significant.
The proposed residence would house 22 one-bedroom units and five two-bedroom units, including three units that would be set aside for extremely low income households. The apartments would range from 325 to 669 square feet, each featuring one bathroom and a linear or L-shaped kitchen. There would also be a residential lobby, laundry room, bike storage and repair room, and 16 parking spaces.
BFK Architecture + Planning took inspiration from the American Foursquare architectural style, which is closely related to the American Craftsman movement. The project would incorporate asphalt roof shingles, fiber cement siding resembling natural wood, a Craftsman-style front door with a decorative arch, and dual-pane faux wooden windows with hunter green trim. The roof would have flared eaves to blend in seamlessly with the surrounding structures.
1014 West 18th Street is aiming for Tier 2 Transit Oriented Communities (TOC) incentives, including a density bonus, due to its proximity to several Metro bus routes. The proposed development is less than a mile from DTLA’s emerging South Park neighborhood, home to the STAPLES Center, LA Live, Microsoft Theater, several grocery stores and hip eateries.
