Rendering: Next Architecture

The building that currently houses the Dosan Ahn Chang Ho USPS branch could be replaced by a seven-story, mixed-use project featuring 150 residential units and approximately 13,000 square feet of commercial space. 

Prolific Koreatown developer, Jamison Properties, submitted an application to Los Angeles City Planning on Friday, calling for a mix of studio (3), one-bedroom (118) and two-bedroom (29) units. The proposed project, which is referred to as 555 Harvard, would set aside 15 affordable units for extremely low income households. It’s unclear whether the market-rate units would be touted as rental or ownership housing, or a combination of the two. 

Rendering: Next Architecture

A two-story subterranean parking garage would provide 189 vehicle parking spaces, 18 of which would be reserved for patrons of the ground-floor businesses. There would also be storage for 110 bicycles. The property is a mere eight-minute walk from Wilshire/Normandie station along the Metro D Line, and as such, is seeking several Transit Oriented Communities (TOC) incentives.

Five ground-floor commercial spaces would occupy the corner of Harvard and 6th Street, suitable for restaurant or retail use. A residential lobby with a leasing office would also share this level.

Rendering: Next Architecture

On the second floor, an indoor fitness center and lounge space would be accompanied by a 269-square-foot dog park and an open-air courtyard with a pool and spa, barbecue counter, dining tables and chaise lounges. A landscaped roof deck would also include fire pits, a barbecue, synthetic grass lawn, dining tables with umbrellas, daybeds and citrus trees. 

Rendering: Next Architecture

Designed by Long Beach-based Next Architecture, the U-shaped building would feature a prominent, rounded corner, protruding balconies with glass or steel railings, and a contemporary blue, white, grey and tan color palette. Awnings and decorative accents would further enliven the pedestrian realm.

Rendering: Next Architecture

The proposed project offers a walkable location at 551 S. Harvard Boulevard. There are countless restaurants, cafes and cocktail bars nearby, and neighborhood hotspots include The Line LA, Aroma Golf Range, the Wiltern and California Market.

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