Table of Contents
- Introduction
- History and Development
- Design and Architecture
- Facilities and Amenities
- Residential Features
- Community and Demographics
- Sustainability Initiatives
- Management and Operations
- Economic Impact
- Future Plans and Developments
- References
Introduction
Element WeHo Apartments is a multifamily residential complex situated in the WeHo district of Los Angeles, California. The property comprises twenty-two high‑rise buildings that provide a range of unit types, including studios, one‑bedroom, two‑bedroom, and penthouse apartments. Since its opening in 2014, Element WeHo has become a notable example of contemporary urban housing, integrating modern design, extensive amenities, and sustainability features within a dense urban environment.
History and Development
Early Planning and Site Selection
The WeHo area, located between Hollywood and West Hollywood, has long been earmarked for mixed‑use redevelopment. In the early 2000s, the Los Angeles Department of City Planning approved a zoning amendment that permitted a high‑density residential component on a parcel bounded by Pico Boulevard, Santa Monica Boulevard, and the Hollywood Freeway. The parcel, previously occupied by a derelict industrial warehouse, was acquired in 2008 by Element Properties, a subsidiary of the Element Group, a national real‑estate investment firm.
Construction and Completion
Construction began in 2010 after the procurement of a large construction loan from Bank of America. The development contract was awarded to Langan & Associates, a firm known for its work on large urban projects. Construction was completed in 2014, with the first residential units moving into occupancy in early 2015. Over the course of the project, the development cost was estimated at $750 million, making it one of the largest multifamily projects in the region during that period.
Ownership Transitions
In 2018, Element Group sold a majority stake in the property to a partnership between The Carlyle Group and a local private‑equity firm. The transaction was valued at $1.1 billion, reflecting the high demand for upscale urban housing in Los Angeles. The management responsibilities remained with Element Properties, while the new owners acquired the equity share and the long‑term revenue stream from lease payments.
Design and Architecture
Architectural Concept
The architectural design was conceived by Kohn Pedersen Fox, a firm recognized for its high‑rise projects. The concept emphasizes a “vertical city” approach, wherein each tower functions as a self‑contained community with access to shared spaces and services. The buildings feature a façade of glass and steel, with recessed balconies and cantilevered sections that provide shade and architectural interest.
Structural Engineering
Given the seismic risks in the Los Angeles region, the towers incorporate a reinforced concrete core with post‑tensioned shear walls. Seismic isolation bearings are installed at the base of each tower to mitigate ground motion. The structural design also accommodates high wind loads, particularly important given the proximity to the Hollywood Freeway.
Interior Layouts
Apartment floor plans range from 500 to 2,200 square feet. Common elements include open‑concept living areas, full‑size kitchen appliances, and high‑definition television connectivity. The design emphasizes natural light, with each unit receiving a minimum of 40 square feet of direct sunlight. Bathrooms feature walk‑in showers and contemporary fixtures.
Facilities and Amenities
Recreational Spaces
- Olympic‑size swimming pool with a heated section and lounge chairs
- Indoor fitness center equipped with cardio machines, free weights, and a yoga studio
- Outdoor tennis courts and a basketball court
- Sky gardens on the 20th and 22nd floors featuring native landscaping and seating areas
Business and Lifestyle Services
- Co‑working spaces with high‑speed internet access
- On‑site cafe and micro‑kitchen serving locally sourced food
- Laundry facilities on each floor with energy‑efficient washers and dryers
- 24/7 security patrol and biometric access control
Transportation and Parking
The complex includes a dedicated underground parking garage with 1,200 spaces, prioritized for residents. Bicycle storage facilities and electric vehicle charging stations are located in the basement level. The property is adjacent to several public transit lines, providing residents with convenient access to the broader Los Angeles metro area.
Residential Features
Smart Home Integration
Each unit is equipped with a central hub that controls lighting, heating, and security systems. Residents can adjust settings via a mobile application. Voice‑activated assistants are pre‑installed in all common areas and available upon request in individual apartments.
Pet Policies
Pets are allowed throughout the complex. Residents may own up to two dogs weighing no more than 40 pounds and one cat. An on‑site dog park and a pet grooming service are available for convenience.
Community Engagement
Monthly resident events, such as cooking classes, art exhibits, and wellness seminars, are hosted in the shared community center. The complex maintains an online forum for residents to share information and coordinate group activities.
Community and Demographics
Resident Profile
According to the latest census data, the average household size in the complex is 1.8 persons, with a median age of 32 years. The resident population includes a mix of young professionals, artists, and small families. Approximately 60% of residents are employed in the tech, entertainment, and creative industries.
Socioeconomic Indicators
The average household income for residents is $85,000 annually. A significant portion of residents (45%) holds a bachelor’s degree or higher. The complex has implemented a subsidized housing program that provides a 10% discount to qualifying low‑income households, ensuring a degree of socioeconomic diversity.
Sustainability Initiatives
Energy Management
The building incorporates photovoltaic panels covering 15% of the roof area, contributing to a net‑zero energy objective. The HVAC system uses variable‑speed drives and a chilled‑water loop, reducing energy consumption by 20% compared to standard systems. All lighting fixtures are LED, and occupancy sensors regulate illumination in shared spaces.
Water Conservation
Low‑flow fixtures, a greywater recycling system for irrigation, and smart irrigation controls help reduce potable water usage by 25% relative to typical urban residential complexes.
Waste Reduction
Recycling stations are located on every floor, and a composting program is available for residents who produce organic waste. The complex has partnered with a local waste‑management firm to ensure proper sorting and processing of recyclable materials.
Management and Operations
Property Management Structure
Element Properties serves as the day‑to‑day manager, overseeing maintenance, tenant relations, and financial reporting. A dedicated operations team handles security, landscaping, and resident services. The company employs a resident liaison to coordinate community events and gather feedback.
Financial Performance
Operating income for the complex increased by 8% year over year between 2016 and 2020, driven by a steady rise in occupancy rates and rent escalations. The property’s net operating income (NOI) averaged $12 million annually during this period. The property is valued at a capitalization rate of 5.5% in the current market.
Tenant Services
Services include 24/7 maintenance support, an online portal for rent payments and maintenance requests, and quarterly resident surveys. The property maintains an on‑site concierge team that assists with package delivery and transportation arrangements.
Economic Impact
Job Creation
The construction of Element WeHo created approximately 1,200 direct jobs in the building industry and 300 indirect jobs in supporting sectors such as materials supply and logistics. Ongoing operations employ around 200 permanent staff, including maintenance, security, and administrative personnel.
Local Business Development
The complex’s retail spaces include a coffee shop, a boutique fitness studio, and a small grocery market, all operated by local entrepreneurs. These businesses contribute to the local economy by providing employment and generating sales tax revenue.
Property Value Appreciation
According to the Los Angeles Property Assessment Board, the average assessed value of residential units in the complex increased by 18% between 2015 and 2021. This appreciation reflects the desirability of high‑quality urban housing and the premium amenities offered by the property.
Future Plans and Developments
Expansion Projects
In 2023, a feasibility study was completed for a neighboring parcel to the south of the complex. The study indicates potential for an additional 30 high‑rise units, which would increase the total residential capacity by 25%. The development would feature an expanded community garden and a rooftop observatory.
Technology Upgrades
Plans are underway to implement a building‑wide Internet of Things (IoT) platform that will enable predictive maintenance, real‑time energy monitoring, and enhanced resident safety features. The initiative aims to reduce operating costs by 10% over five years.
Community Outreach
The property has committed to a partnership with the Los Angeles Unified School District to sponsor after‑school programs and provide scholarships to local students. Additionally, the complex will host an annual art fair that showcases works from community artists.
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