Los Angeles’ Planning Commission has approved “670 Mesquit”, a mixed-used development at the edge of the city’s Arts District designed by Danish architect Bjarke Ingels Group (BIG) in association with local firms Gruen Associates and Studio-MLA.
The four-building project, which occupies a former industrial site overlooking the Los Angeles River, is being developed by the Gallo wine producing family and real estate company Vella, Los Angeles Magazine reports.
The scheme will be made up of 894 homes, including 144 for low or very low income families.
There will also be a hotel, a school, 62,800 sq m of office space as well as shops and galleries.
The tallest structure will be 118m, and will dominate this low-rise neighbourhood.
Commenting on the scheme, Bjarke Ingels said it drew inspiration from the “scale, materials, and details of the warehouses and factories in the Arts District”.
“By blending modern amenities with timeless materials and proportions, we honour the artistic identity that defines the district, ensuring its creative spirit endures while welcoming new residents and businesses,” he added.
Michael LoGrande of Logrande & Company, who argued for the project to the Planning Commission, said 670 Mesquit was an example of what “thoughtful, community-centered development can achieve”.
Construction is expected to take either five years or to be phased over nine years, however the scheme still needs city approval for general plan amendments and zone changes.
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