In an effort to address Westwood’s high demand for student housing, Landmark Properties has revised its plans to build a new 12-story residential high-rise aimed at UCLA students. This project, named The Metropolitan at Los Angeles, will be the developer’s second venture near the UCLA campus, expanding their presence and commitment to student housing in the area. Here, we’ll delve into the specifics of the development, its design, and the housing benefits it promises for students and the local community.
Project Location and Scope: An Expanded Vision
Landmark Properties, based in Georgia and a leader in student housing, has filed revised plans for this significant project to be located at 505 South Landfair Avenue and 504 South Glenrock Avenue in Westwood. The new plans envision a larger structure than initially proposed, with the revised high-rise reaching 12 stories compared to the originally planned seven stories.
The project will replace two older two-story buildings dating back to 1948, bringing a modern, high-quality housing option to an area with predominantly aged properties. This expansion signals Landmark’s dedication to creating more living spaces for UCLA students in Westwood’s competitive rental market.
Building Design and Amenities: Blending Modern Architecture with Functionality
The high-rise, designed by West Adams-based architecture firm LOHA (Lorcan O’Herlihy Architects), stands out with its contemporary aesthetic and purposeful design. Renderings reveal a sleek, white structure that incorporates off-kilter blocks, narrow floor-to-ceiling windows, and a rooftop deck on a sixth-floor wing. The 139-foot structure will also feature:
- Diverse Apartment Options: The Metropolitan will offer 84 units, ranging from studios to five-bedroom apartments, to meet various student housing needs.
- State-of-the-Art Amenities: Planned amenities include a swimming pool, fitness center, recreation rooms, and landscaped patios to foster a balanced living and recreational environment for students.
These amenities align with modern expectations for student housing, promoting a community-oriented and health-conscious lifestyle while catering to the unique demands of college students.
Density Bonus Incentives and Affordable Housing
In pursuit of a larger building, Landmark is utilizing density bonus incentives provided by California Assembly Bills AB 2334 and AB 1287, which permit developers to exceed local zoning restrictions when affordable units are incorporated. The project will reserve 12 of its 84 units as affordable housing for low- and very low-income households.
This inclusion aligns with Landmark’s goals to contribute to Westwood’s affordable housing stock. According to Jason Doornbos, executive managing director of development for Landmark Properties, “This neighborhood is desperately in need of newly built, high-quality housing, especially affordable units, as the majority of residential opportunities are in older buildings.” Landmark’s commitment to affordability is essential in an area known for its high cost of living, especially for students.
Westwood’s Demand for Quality Student Housing
The need for updated student housing options in Westwood is high, as UCLA’s growing student population often faces a lack of adequate housing close to campus. The new high-rise will provide updated accommodations that integrate affordability, making it a valuable addition to the neighborhood. Westwood’s housing market is dominated by older properties, which don’t always offer the amenities or modern standards students desire. Landmark’s project addresses these gaps, positioning The Metropolitan as a desirable option in a competitive housing landscape.
Landmark’s Expanding Presence in Los Angeles
Landmark Properties, founded in 2004, has already made significant strides in the Los Angeles housing market. The Metropolitan at Los Angeles will be the third Los Angeles-based project by the firm, joining a 37-unit complex already under construction in Westwood and a larger 429-unit development near Exposition Park, close to the University of Southern California (USC). Currently, Landmark manages $13 billion in assets across the U.S., with a portfolio that includes 115 residential properties and 71,000 beds. Their focus on high-quality student housing positions them as a key player in markets with large student populations.
Conclusion: A Promising Development for UCLA Students and the Westwood Community
Landmark Properties’ Metropolitan project brings much-needed, high-quality housing to UCLA’s bustling neighborhood of Westwood. With its focus on student-friendly amenities, modern design, and a mix of affordable units, The Metropolitan is set to enhance the area’s residential offerings and provide UCLA students with accessible and comfortable housing. If approved, this development will contribute to easing Westwood’s housing shortage and reflect a growing trend of thoughtfully designed, amenity-rich student accommodations that foster community and accessibility in student-heavy neighborhoods.