Packard Lofts

This project features a two-story addition to an existing four-story building, providing 120 loft units from the 2nd to the 6th floor, retail space on ground floor, and two levels of subterranean parking. The program scope includes a mid-rise loft conversion and major renovation, earthquake retrofitting, and addition of a steel super structure. The work was completed in four Phases. The 1st Phase converted part of an existing four-story landmark parking structure into 30 modern, high-end lofts. The 2nd Phase added a new north structure on the 5th floor for nine lofts. The 3rd Phase converted the entire structure into 100 lofts by creating a central open courtyard. The final 4th Phase added the 5th & 6th floor steel duplex superstructure on the rooftop to accommodate 17 new lofts.

The loft units range from one to three bedrooms, each having private micro-topping balconies with wrought iron railing. The building incorporates custom H.D. aluminum windows and sliding wood doors. The interior materials include custom bamboo wood flooring, kitchen and vanity cabinets, black granite countertops, full-height custom tiles in the showers and bathtubs, and custom tile work in the lobby and corridor flooring. Amenities include a rooftop community center with spa, a BBQ facility, gym, and public terraces.

The seismic retrofitting of the existing four stories incorporates the addition of steel braces and fireproofing of all new steel members. The project adds two sets of steel staircases and two new elevators, while retrofitting two existing elevators with seven stops. High exposed concrete ceilings and ductwork throughout the floors provide an engaging "industrial loft" character for the units. The custom circular canopy (marquee) marks the entry, enhanced with a curved advertisement steel structure above. The new front reception desk is equipped with special entry systems; and cameras are installed throughout to monitor the building, which is used not only by the loft occupants, but also by retail tenants and visitors to the basement parking level due to its proximity to Staples Center.