i like H & H. it changed the whole area, spurred tons of new development, is open to the street, brings much needed retail and restaurants to the area, is on top of a subway station and has a nice open area in the middle. yes it could have been a bit better, but its good.

Not only that but it brought the Kodak theater^^

Oh.. well I agree with that..
but as for the MALL itself it sucks arse

^^ still brings the crowd. good enough to set an example for the city

Ok I'm going to try this question again. Does anybody know of a good place to park when going to LA Live?

Their parking structure?

Or some other parking lots around?

Agreed. But it's a good suck.

^^This may be the first great 'comeback' of the 21st century

I've been hearing about the tree. They're not likin' the tree. I understand that it can show video also but people seem to want a taller, real tree. They don't want "..a fake tree for a fake city.." I think a real, 100 footer would be nice every year and I tend to think that AEG can pull that off. What say you? Just in case you didn't think it was possible, remember Pershing Square from 1949 and their 102 footer. http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee192/trolltoast/uclapershing.jpg UCLA

I don't think anyone here was alive in 1949 to remember Pershing Square's giant tree. But I agree.

Their parking structure?

I was hoping someone might know of a street or someplace where it's not usually packed and you can park. Flower, Fig, and just about every street I've looked for around there is always packed and I can't find a spot and I don't want to pay $15 to park in the structure if I'm just going for a little.

I was hoping someone might know of a street or someplace where it's not usually packed and you can park. Flower, Fig, and just about every street I've looked for around there is always packed and I can't find a spot and I don't want to pay $15 to park in the structure if I'm just going for a little.

your in downtown. parking is not cheap. park at a rail station and take the blue line, the more you need your car the more expensive it gets. suck it up and get on the train.:bash:

From CURBED L.A.:

The most interesting bit of news to come out of this morning's event to celebrate the last three steel beams rising at downtown's Ritz-Carlton Residences & Hotel/JW Marriott Hotel was LA Live developer AEG's announcement that it is going forward with plans for a new hotel at the corner of Olympic and Francisco streets. "The lot is fully entitled," Ted Tanner, VP of AEG Real Estate told us, adding that the ground-breaking on the lot, currently being used as a parking lot for Staples Center, is scheduled for late 2009 or early 2010.

From CURBED L.A.:

The most interesting bit of news to come out of this morning's event to celebrate the last three steel beams rising at downtown's Ritz-Carlton Residences & Hotel/JW Marriott Hotel was LA Live developer AEG's announcement that it is going forward with plans for a new hotel at the corner of Olympic and Francisco streets. "The lot is fully entitled," Ted Tanner, VP of AEG Real Estate told us, adding that the ground-breaking on the lot, currently being used as a parking lot for Staples Center, is scheduled for late 2009 or early 2010.

Awesome! I can't wait for more details.

I was hoping someone might know of a street or someplace where it's not usually packed and you can park. Flower, Fig, and just about every street I've looked for around there is always packed and I can't find a spot and I don't want to pay $15 to park in the structure if I'm just going for a little.

I've gone to LA Live twice, both times it was a sunday.
I always luck out and find a spot in front of the met loft place.
I'm not sure what street that is though...

If I'm correct, this new hotel is going right next to the Hotel Figueroa. On top of that, I think it's going right on the site of the dilapidated (and soon to be demolished) Hotel Baker...

Im pretty sure that it is the plot across from the Hotel Barker site which pretty much is demolished. That plot has been entitled for awhile. I wonder how many floors it will be. maybe we can get a residential building w g/f retail on the Barker site.

From CURBED L.A.:

The most interesting bit of news to come out of this morning's event to celebrate the last three steel beams rising at downtown's Ritz-Carlton Residences & Hotel/JW Marriott Hotel was LA Live developer AEG's announcement that it is going forward with plans for a new hotel at the corner of Olympic and Francisco streets. "The lot is fully entitled," Ted Tanner, VP of AEG Real Estate told us, adding that the ground-breaking on the lot, currently being used as a parking lot for Staples Center, is scheduled for late 2009 or early 2010.

Metropolis will be a gaping hole if that's built. I can't believe that all this time and still nothing there.

I doubt this has anything to do with the design of the "real" tower planned, but I do imagine that it will be something to this scale.

It seems unlikely they will build a tower that blocks views from their multi-million dollar condos. From this pic, it seems like the tower will be as tall as the marriot or so--maybe 20ish floors?

http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i284/mongo255/Downtown%20LA/LAL_V1_Camera-Match-8816_LR.jpg

At least it's something to look forward to now that everything is topping out for this round of development.

Some L.A. residential developers replacing 'for sale' signs with 'for lease' http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee192/trolltoast/untitledjhgfd.jpg
Spencer Weiner / Los Angeles Times
Broadcast engineer Gregory Glaser takes in the view of downtown Los Angeles. Glaser was helping to broadcast the celebration of the placement of the final steel beams on the Ritz-Carlton Residences at L.A. Live.
A downturn in the real estate market and a precipitous drop in qualified buyers are prompting the conversion of downtown condominiums into rental units. abbreviated
By Cara Mia DiMassa
December 11, 2008
Daria Benedict had been in escrow for nearly a year on a 725-square-foot loft in the Chapman building in downtown Los Angeles when she got the first indication that the rehabilitation of the historic office building into high-end condos might have hit a snag.

The developer of the former Los Angeles Investment Co. building asked for a larger deposit on Benedict's purchase of a 13th-floor unit that promised an open floor plan and oversized windows. Benedict, who works for NBC's "Tonight Show," had to scramble to find the extra cash.

But it hardly mattered. In May, the developers took the Chapman building off the market altogether, returned buyers' deposits and instead opted to rent out the 168 units.

The Chapman found itself at the front of a rather unenviable trend: In the midst of a downturn in the real estate market, some developers are finding that they no longer can sell condos in buildings that even a year ago would have been quickly snapped up. Flummoxed by a precipitous drop in qualified buyers, they are choosing to rent out their buildings instead.

It's happening in downtown Los Angeles, and to a lesser degree in Hollywood and the San Fernando Valley -- areas where high-density housing has sprung up in recent years.

And the shift raises questions about some of the fundamental assumptions surrounding urban development. Instead of buyers who can afford the hefty down payments and mortgages, some of these developments are now attracting renters who need only put down rents of $1,500 to $4,500 a month.

But is the shift in the market a bad thing for L.A.? There's some debate on this point.

Jan Lin, a professor of sociology at Occidental College, said the change is "something that you should be a little cautious about if you are a planner or city official concerned about the social fabric."

Property owners are typically more invested in their neighborhoods and push for urban transformation that will better the neighborhood and increase their equity.

But the owners of rental buildings are usually absentee owners, not residents of the area in which they are invested, Lin said, and don't necessarily have the same dedication to bettering the neighborhood that condo owners often do.

Many urban revival efforts have begun with homeowners moving into distressed neighborhoods and slowly fixing up houses block by block. Over time, the change spreads to nearby shopping districts as well.

This has happened over the years in neighborhoods around Los Angeles, including the West Adams area, where Victorian houses have been restored, and Echo Park, Eagle Rock and Highland Park.

But the revitalization of downtown was sparked much less by homeowners, said developer Tom Gilmore, whose conversion of old bank buildings along Main Street into rental lofts nearly a decade ago helped spark the revival.

It was renters -- a mix of artists, young couples looking for urban adventure and professionals who worked downtown -- who began to build the loft scene that eventually led to new restaurants, bars and galleries, as well as luxury condos.

Gilmore said downtown needs a mix of renters and owners.

With renters, "their tenancy is shorter, their horizon is shorter," he said. "The dark side of condo owners is that many are part-time residents. Those rentals are uniformly used on a daily basis. You actually get more buy-in on a community level because there are more people using the streets every single day."

Downtown condo owners in L.A. and elsewhere often see the property as an investment rather than as a place to live and build a community.

"I saw it in New York; you can see it in London," Gilmore said. "You can have a completely filled condo building and not have anyone living there on a daily basis."

Gail Goldberg, director of the city's Planning Department, believes that there should be little alarm at the rental conversions.

She said that it is important for cities to provide a mix of rental and for-sale housing, and that an increase in the number of rentals in Los Angeles could end up changing some long-held habitation patterns.

"We have to come to terms with the fact that in California . . . we are going to have a need for a lot of rental" [housing], she said.

"Rental [housing] in other parts of the country is seen as more of a long-term living choice. People live for long times in rentals in New York and other eastern cities, and make it a permanent home. We still here in California have this slight sort of edge about rental[s] -- that it's too transient, that people don't invest the same. I am not exactly sure that's true."

Projects that recently converted from condo to rental include Larchmont Lofts, Universal Lofts, the Brockman, 1010 Wilshire and Artisan on Second downtown. Experts say that they expect to see more of the reversions in the coming months.

Mike Farzan, one of the Chapman's co-developers, said that the decision for his building to go rental was something that was precipitated when some buyers had lost their jobs, and others watched loan commitments slip away as mortgage lenders changed guidelines.

"Faced with the uncertainty," he said, "we decided to go rental, at least for a few years, until things settle down."

Some residential condo projects are moving forward despite the changes in market conditions.

Gilmore said the units in the Rowan project he is working on will still be condo when they open in the coming months.

And, on Wednesday, workers hoisted three final steel beams to the top of the 54-story, hotel-residential tower that is part of the L.A. Live complex in the South Park area of downtown in a symbolic "topping-off" ceremony.

Condos in the L.A. Live project, which will share amenities with the Ritz Carlton hotel in the tower, start at $1.4 million and climb from there. Officials with AEG, which is developing the project, said that a few buyers have dropped out but the rest have renewed their commitment to the project and have put 20% down.

Of course, many downtown condos are aimed at a less-wealthy demographic. And given the economic uncertainty and falling home values, some residents who once thought of buying downtown are happy to be renting for now.

As for Benedict, she continues to live at the Douglas building, a few blocks north of the Roosevelt.

She said she has adopted a pragmatic take on her real estate fortune -- one tied in part to downtown's changing fortunes as a residential neighborhood.

"In the long run, I think it saved me," she said. "I would have purchased that home for over market value. Even though I thought it was a great deal, downtown is a long-term investment thing." DiMassa is a Times staff writer.
cara.dimassa@latimes.com Los Angeles Times

I think that we talkin' about this...

There's no official plans for Baker Apartment Hotel site...
But!
Across the street suppose to be a new boutique hotel called ''Edition''...

http://img444.imageshack.us/img444/5655/laliveblueprintmapke1.jpg

http://img131.imageshack.us/img131/175/9a4pk3tp0.jpg

Awesome! Now build Metropolis and LA Central and I love it! Doing something with the carwash and Hotel Fig (either tear it down or refurbish it, but something needs to be done) wouldn't hurt either.

Don't you touch Hotel Fig!

Don't you touch Hotel Fig!

I'd love for it to be refurbished/renovated, but something needs to be done to it. If you check out what people who stay there say about it, they all complain it's a dump. It'd be fantastic if they can renovated it, but if not they need to tear it down. There's no use in leaving it there as is.

^^ I think they should touch it, Give it a new paint job, a new theme, a new updated rooftop sign, and establish it as a premier boutique hotel a la Hotel Cecil or Hotel O among others, I mean its sittting at the edge of a new bright district which makes it look almost out of place in its current state.

i don't think they need a new sign unless it's pretty much the same, but brighter. it keeps the place interesting since there's really not enough variety of textures in this area of downtown, especially with LA Live.

not much needs to be done to the exterior except street level needs to look more interesting and with some kind of retail/restaurants that liven up the place. the walls need some serious cleaning or bleaching or staining too.

i pretty much think the north side will be hidden in the future from another project so forget about redoing anything with that. the west side too.

what's inside is the problem. fix that. gut out the floors or redo support structures if you have to. i hear plumbing is horrible and so is furniture and appliances.

i don't think they need a new sign unless it's pretty much the same, but brighter. it keeps the place interesting since there's really not enough variety of textures in this area of downtown, especially with LA Live.

not much needs to be done to the exterior except street level needs to look more interesting and with some kind of retail/restaurants that liven up the place. the walls need some serious cleaning or bleaching or staining too.

i pretty much think the north side will be hidden in the future from another project so forget about redoing anything with that. the west side too.

what's inside is the problem. fix that. gut out the floors or redo support structures if you have to. i hear plumbing is horrible and so is furniture and appliances.

Yup. That's the kind of renovation I'm talking about. If they can do that then I'd love for them to do and see the hotel stay, but if not, tear it down. I'd rather it be torn down and build something new there then leaving it as is.

What I would do is this:

- Rename it from Hotel Figueroa to just The Figueroa.

- Turn it into a much more hip, urbane hotel.
http://www.visiglobe.com/hotels/lushhip_ist/images/lush-title.jpg
http://www.bookings.net/images/hotel/org/772/772560.jpg


- Each of the 3 advertising places facing LA Live would be covered with millions of LED lights. Along the lines of this.
http://www.dodevice.com/wp-content/uploads/2008/05/greenpix-media-wall.jpg

- Scrub down the exterior of the hotel, modernize it while keeping it's Latin/Arabian theme and plant greenery. Jacaranda, date palms, and olive trees.

- DESTROY THE CAR WASH and in it's place, set a nice outdoor bistro.


Just because you don't like something doesn't mean it shouldn't be destroyed. The Holiday Inn however....

As I stated a few pages back, the HoFig just needs somebody who cares about it. The current owner is a bona fide douchebag who needs to be replaced asap. As long as he's in charge, don't expect any changes from the HoFig.

Well, considering that the area around LA Live is going to experience some sort of growth in the coming years, he's going to HAVE to do something if he wants to make any money.

I like that idea of putting LED's on the 3 prongs of the building, and for the car wash plot I would build a 5 or 6 level parking structure with g/f retail since parking structures have low ceiling height which will maybe ease the concerns of a structure blocking the LED's behind it and on the roof create maybe a public greenspace.

I'd love for it to be refurbished/renovated, but something needs to be done to it. If you check out what people who stay there say about it, they all complain it's a dump. It'd be fantastic if they can renovated it, but if not they need to tear it down. There's no use in leaving it there as is.

^^ Agree 100%

That run down dump even makes the carwash look bad. Tear the bitch down and start from scratch. Then give it a brand new catchy name like 300 mentioned. Also taller would be better and with huge electric billboards advertising up-coming events and local eateries.

December 11, 2008

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3003/3100872813_fbd308d1f5_b.jpg

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3257/3101712248_d94a693366_b.jpg

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http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3128/3100879251_98c36d0c9d_b.jpg


All shots failed :D
oh well....

But compared to November 9

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3191/3017851182_c3395d2121_b.jpg

That hotel is an LA icon. It will never be torn down.

I like that idea of putting LED's on the 3 prongs of the building, and for the car wash plot I would build a 5 or 6 level parking structure with g/f retail since parking structures have low ceiling height which will maybe ease the concerns of a structure blocking the LED's behind it and on the roof create maybe a public greenspace.

i dont think blocking those ads should be a consideration when building on that lot. its an amazing plot and should be a great highrise there, maybe something like that green building proposed for Century City. It should be iconic!

i dont think blocking those ads should be a consideration when building on that lot. its an amazing plot and should be a great highrise there, maybe something like that green building proposed for Century City. It should be iconic!

I remember reading somewhere that Donald Trump was considering entering the downtown LA market with something major. That plot would be perfect for him to do something major. Maybe a supertall? A guy can dream.

Where did you read that and when?

Where did you read that and when?

I don't remember where I read it. It was a few years ago and it wasn't an exact quote from Trump. It was an article on Trump and it said he was considering major projects in a few places and downtown LA was one of them. I don't know if it ever got any farther than considering the idea, I was just hoping....

You guys must be kidding me? Tear down Hotel Figueroa? Like 'Beatslim' mentioned, that's an LA icon. I think the problem is not the hotel per se, but our " tear it down and build it spanking new" mentality here in LA. We have to recondition ourselves as Angelenos to appreciate the vintage quality of older buildings. Have anyone of you seen how cool Pershing Square used to look with all the old vintage buildings in the early 20th century?

Sure, they should do some interior renovations ASAP! But leave it there and leave it alone. It's distinctive and adds texture to the South Park neighborhood, in an otherwise monotony, sea of gleaming new developments. People already complain that LA Live looks too much like Staples Center!!! :bash:

The Ritz Topping Off Ceremony Jimmy Smits and ABC7's Laura Diaz (Awww, I remember Laura Diaz)http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee192/trolltoast/eric20.jpg :) V chuckles over the news of the new hotel at LIVE (as a possibly spurned assistant looks on disapprovingly :)) http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee192/trolltoast/eric21.jpg :) AEG Senior V.P. of Real Estate Ted Tanner, Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa, Councilwoman Jan Perry and actor Jimmy Smits watch as the beams rise up the Ritz tower. http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee192/trolltoast/eric22.jpg :) The flag rises with the last beams http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee192/trolltoast/eric24.jpg :) Hungry-ass construction workers pigging out! http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee192/trolltoast/eric25.jpg :) The finished product uhh, still unfinished but getting finisheder :) http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee192/trolltoast/doctyper.jpg doctyper Eric Richardson at the event Flickr Blogdowntown

^^

Hey Milqy, Laura Diaz looks kinda hot in her little black dress don't cha think?. You can tell she has a pretty firm handshake too.

Oooh la la! Give me summa that!! :scouserd::scouserd:

Now now now, Ms Diaz is a respected journalist/teleprompter reader and she deserves our utmost respect!

I will say she has been improving year after year. Kinda like Brad Pitt does in his stupid new movie :)

Now now now, Ms Diaz is a respected journalist/teleprompter reader and she deserves our utmost respect!

She has my utmost respect, that's for sure! She's very professional in her journalistic endeavors, unlike some of the other female journalists/teleprompter readers you see on Fox 11 NEWS. But, that's totally another matter we'll just not discuss here...:)

Love the last pictue. ^^

^^ I love that picture too. Imagine when all those lots on both sides of Olympic are filled with buildings, it will create that somewhat "canyon effect" almost like Times Square but still very LAish

You guys must be kidding me? Tear down Hotel Figueroa? Like 'Beatslim' mentioned, that's an LA icon. I think the problem is not the hotel per se, but our " tear it down and build it spanking new" mentality here in LA. We have to recondition ourselves as Angelenos to appreciate the vintage quality of older buildings. Have anyone of you seen how cool Pershing Square used to look with all the old vintage buildings in the early 20th century?

Sure, they should do some interior renovations ASAP! But leave it there and leave it alone. It's distinctive and adds texture to the South Park neighborhood, in an otherwise monotony, sea of gleaming new developments. People already complain that LA Live looks too much like Staples Center!!! :bash:

I agree. There's way too many empty lots in the immediate area to even begin to think of tearing something down and replacing it. And yes, I know the biggest problem is its set-back...but I hardly think it will STOP people from walking around it. It's not a wall, you know...This mentality of everything trying to be "open" and catering specifically to the pedestrian is unrealistic. There definitely needs to be some sort of diversity. As much as I hate Ferns mentality when it comes to his car (among other things), there are many people who would simply rather drive and prefer "easy" access to where they are going.
I've personally never felt like the Holiday Inn was an eyesore. Even when walking along side it. Actually, it's not any different than an Evo or a Luma...especially if it has stores that don't specifically cater to my direct needs. (well...i'm kinda pushing the evo and luma comparison, because I love their sidewalks.)
http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3191/2659292244_02c2b420ed_b.jpg
flickr JT3 11

hehe...i just remembered this song:
YBie4C1Dy98

OK...my rant is over...sorry if I made a shrine of the Holiday Inn in this post. :)

What does "T/O" mean?

Topped Out.

Or Terrell Owens.

http://nbcsportsmedia1.msnbc.com/j/msnbc/Components/Photos/051107/051107_terrell_owens_vmed.widec.jpg

hah

when did they change the status?

Almost complete with levels 54 and 55 (roof). Helipad is 19' above roof. Real top out next week weather permitting. I told you it would be complete by Christmas. :cheers1: Did anyone actually attend the top out ceremony?

Did anyone actually attend the top out ceremony?

Well well well, if we was INVITED!! That would have been up to you, a course! http://www.easyfreesmileys.com/smileys/free-fighting-smileys-459.gif (http://www.easyfreesmileys.com/Free-Fighting-Smileys/)

Wait, architennis, people were talking about the hotel fig, not the holiday inn.

Personally, I think anyone who thinks they should tear down hotel figueroa for any reason should be banned from this board.

Have you guys never seen the parking lots on, um.. almost ALL sides of it?

This is an old building, a rarity on that side of downtown. It's got a great sign, and a funky facade. I've heard that the manager is terrible and has let the place go to shit inside. Who cares? That doesn't mean it has to be torn down...

In fact, why am I even arguing this? Do some of you actually think it could be torn down? It would be declared historic so fast.

I like that hotel. I like how it holds up the billboards

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/205/499164290_39212badf3.jpg?v=0

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/9/14744328_787dcfb9dd.jpg?v=0

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2009/2431745973_54e4e757c7.jpg?v=0

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/9/12922844_c6e5a614cf.jpg?v=0

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/23/31118301_d53e0aca9b.jpg?v=0

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3021/2765659889_f6f08c1a81.jpg?v=0

http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1119/573208990_07537da9e4.jpg?v=0

I love Hotel Fig! The interior theme is amazing and it should remain AS IS!! You can refurbish it all you want but I said it once and I'll say it again....."Don't you touch Hotel Fig"!

Maybe some day they'll change the advertisement area into led screens :D

I like it, but I think it needs a new sign on top.

Wait, architennis, people were talking about the hotel fig, not the holiday inn.

Personally, I think anyone who thinks they should tear down hotel figueroa for any reason should be banned from this board.

Have you guys never seen the parking lots on, um.. almost ALL sides of it?

This is an old building, a rarity on that side of downtown. It's got a great sign, and a funky facade. I've heard that the manager is terrible and has let the place go to shit inside. Who cares? That doesn't mean it has to be torn down...

In fact, why am I even arguing this? Do some of you actually think it could be torn down? It would be declared historic so fast.


WHOOPS!...well...I love Hotel Fig. I've gotten drunk there many a times. There back bar is really cool.

December 13, 2008

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3010/3106099084_ff97d61f91_o.jpg

Hey, did you take this? ^^ Looks like someone finally pressed the right button! SHIT! That's one mean, totally wicked awesome pic- dude! That should go up in the individual projects section. See if you can do that again 'cause if you don't.... you'll be known as the One Shot Imperfect Premature Ejaculation Unhappy Ending.....madoor! Wicked Awesome! http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee192/trolltoast/3106099084_ff97d61f91_o-1.jpg Imperfect Ending/SSC

:D

The lights and sunset look sweeeet:
http://i37.tinypic.com/alrlsi.png

Sorry to stray OT but I just recently befriended a guy a who works on those Hotel Fig ads. They used to be painted by a team, but for some reason they have resorted to using vinyl ads now. So his art skills aren't being put to use anymore...so he's out of a job. no LED lights. Bring back the paint!

Another great pic above! Looks like it's from the same vantage point as the cam. As for paint on buildings? I'm sorry to say that went the way of 2-D animation

How long would paint take?

i would like to see some mural on the blank side of 411 place in the financial district... or LED if affordable

I've heard that the huge strobe lights on top of those white truss-looking things form a huge Angel in the sky. Anyone have a picture of this?

i would like to see some mural on the blank side of 411 place in the financial district... or LED if affordable

611. And I've been saying that for years. Something like Mercury in Koreatown.

http://www.emporis.com/images/6/2004/05/262929.jpg

December 16, 2008

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3107/3114828506_f847a25395_b.jpg

They've placed white thinggies on

fireproofing spray-on thingy??

might be a thingy to hold up the glass

ESPN ZONE sneak preview http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee192/trolltoast/erici.jpg :) http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee192/trolltoast/erich.jpg :) http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee192/trolltoast/erica.jpg :) http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee192/trolltoast/ericb.jpg :) http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee192/trolltoast/ericc.jpg :) http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee192/trolltoast/erice.jpg :) http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee192/trolltoast/ericf.jpg :) http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee192/trolltoast/ericg.jpg :) Eric Richardson Flickr BlogDowntown

I have a question. When ESPN finally reaches ESPN 8, will they call it "The Ocho?" http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee192/trolltoast/6a00d8345213c969e200e54f2da71f8834-.jpg screampunch.typepad.com

The ESPN Zone looks sweet, I also like how they have pictures of memorable events that happened in staples, or in LA.

I have a question. When ESPN finally reaches ESPN 8, will they call it "The Ocho?" http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee192/trolltoast/6a00d8345213c969e200e54f2da71f8834-.jpg screampunch.typepad.com

Is it like MTV Tres?

http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b252/karlahenriquez/MTV20tres-1.jpg

White thingy is fireproofing on the columns and beams. My wife and I were walking by Flemings Steakhouse before the Kings game Monday and met my favorite future NFL player walking down Figeroa. USC Quarterback Mark Sanchez.

i think once Expo opens, Downtown LA, and more so LA Live will become the Village for USC students, even more so than it is today.

White thingy is fireproofing on the columns and beams. My wife and I were walking by Flemings Steakhouse before the Kings game Monday and met my favorite future NFL player walking down Figeroa. USC Quarterback Mark Sanchez.

That's 'Figueroa' hotshot! Well well well, do we have us a Wolverine with a mate AND free time to be walking around? You haven't 'hipped' us to your next project now that you're done with this one, stud! How's about the skinny on the new hotel at LIVE or aren't you rested enough? Did you at least tell 'Chez I'll be watching the 1st so they'd better win? http://www.easyfreesmileys.com/smileys/free-happy-smileys-832.gif (http://www.easyfreesmileys.com/Free-Happy-Smileys/) Sorry! http://www.easyfreesmileys.com/smileys/free-happy-smileys-832.gif (http://www.easyfreesmileys.com/Free-Happy-Smileys/) You'd think hanging in a metal cage in the corner of a certain moderator's apartment for a while would have tempered my attitude. You tell us about the new project across the street when you're good and ready. I.... honestly don't know what's come over me!

^^ some people never change. which in your case...is a great thing! :cheers:

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3214/3119127258_97fdb75da3_b.jpg
flickr Willo

from the Eastern Columbia?

^^No the California Design Center building, killer view though wow. Downtown is finally starting to densify in its southern sector, cant wait to see all those lots in that picture gone.

I have no news on the future hotel. My next job will be another building at LACMA. We were going to build the "RED" building next to the BLUE and GREEN buildings in West Hollywood but it was pushed back to October 09.

Hey Wolverine, thanks for all the updates on LA Live. you were our eyes on the front line. isnt the red building already under construction?

^^ Hey, what happened to my smog! I haven't seen my smog in a few weeks now! I too, thought that RED was also under construction??

well, smog's not as strong in our winters. rain and all. plus tourists aren't as plenty, so no useless driving all around over and over again

The job may have started but have you seen structural steel up?????

I love Hotel Fig! The interior theme is amazing and it should remain AS IS!! You can refurbish it all you want but I said it once and I'll say it again....."Don't you touch Hotel Fig"!

Figueroa Hotel website http://www.figueroahotel.com/

The job may have started but have you seen structural steel up?????

Maybe they're waiting for you! That thing started in Septembre.

^^ Hey, what happened to my smog! I haven't seen my smog in a few weeks now! I too, thought that RED was also under construction??

Milq... we are allowed for some snow-capped mountains view around this time of the year.

L.A. Live Developer Plans Second Hotel
Experts Say Financing Is Big Issue for Complement to 54-Story Tower
by Anna Scott
LA Downtown News

DOWNTOWN LOS ANGELES - The developer of the $2.5 billion L.A. Live project plans to build a second Convention Center hotel in South Park. An official with Anschutz Entertainment Group last week said the new building would complement AEG's under-construction, $900 million tower.

The new hotel would rise on a current L.A. Live parking lot at Olympic Boulevard and Francisco Street, north of the under-construction hotel, L.A. Live spokesman Michael Roth said. The land is already fully entitled for a hotel, said Roth, and AEG is negotiating with several potential partners. Roth would not reveal any other details about the proposed project, including its size, budget or what hotel brands AEG is considering.

In June 2007 AEG broke ground on the Convention Center hotel, long considered the linchpin of L.A. Live. The 54-story building will include 878 JW Marriott hotel rooms, 123 Ritz-Carlton hotel rooms and 224 condominiums dubbed the Ritz-Carlton Residences.

The new project's timeline will likely be determined by AEG's ability to secure a loan, an uncertainty in the current economy.

"The key is financing; can they find the money?" asked Jack Kyser, senior vice president and chief economist for the Los Angeles County Economic Development Corp. With the momentum of L.A. Live, AEG could fare better than most, he said.

"They have a track record. It's not like it's a brand new project and nothing else is going on," said Kyser. He added, "Now is a good time to start building, because a lot of construction materials are cheaper right now and, when you open your doors, the economy will be recovered again."

AEG President and CEO Tim Leiweke mentioned the possibility of a second hotel during a Dec. 9 event celebrating the end of vertical construction on the Convention Center hotel, though he did not refer to specific plans. "This district needs a second hotel... we need more rooms down here," he said.

Industry observers agree.

"It's a perfect place to have additional lodging demands," said Jeff Lugosi, senior vice president of PKF Consulting, which tracks the hotel industry. PKF acted as a consultant on the Convention Center hotel, but is not involved in the proposed new one.

"There's a demand for a variety of types of hotels," Lugosi said. "The question is going to be, what's financially feasible?"

The More the Merrier?

The Convention Center headquarters hotel will cap off the $2.5 billion, 27-acre L.A. Live entertainment district.

Yet long before it opens, it is already having an impact. Since the structure broke ground, tourism officials have booked 53 conventions and seen an 800% increase in room nights over 2005, an official at L.A. Inc., the city's convention and tourism bureau, told Los Angeles Downtown News earlier this month.

Lugosi predicts those numbers would continue to grow with the addition of a second hotel. "If you look at analogous markets that the L.A. Convention Center competes with, Anaheim and San Diego and San Francisco, the number of rooms that are within the convention center or downtown market are significantly greater," he said. "Certainly, the market is going to need to absorb the Ritz and the Marriott. But after that there's capacity for hotel expansion."

Lugosi said either a chain or independent brand could succeed, so long as it offers full-service amenities.

Kyser also said the possibilities are numerous, noting that the coming JW Marriott is a four-star hotel and the Ritz will be a five-star establishment. "You could go to another type of four-star hotel," said Kyser. "I've heard the W mentioned. You also don't have a Hyatt Downtown, which is very interesting."

Regardless of the operator, Lugosi has a positive forecast for Downtown's hotel market in the coming years, despite a slight dip in occupancy citywide during the past year.

"There are not a lot of hotel rooms planned for the Downtown market and with the recovery, starting maybe in late 2009 or early 2010... I think that there is room for other lodging properties," he said. "I think there is the ability to over-build if you build too much in a market where demand is not growing. However, I don't think that is the case Downtown."

http://images.townnews.com/ladowntownnews.com/content/articles/2008/12/22/news/12-22-08-news03.jpg

The building was officially topped out on Friday December 19th 2008. The first column was erected on January 23rd 2008. MERRY CHRISTMAS! :pepper::pepper::pepper::pepper::pepper::pepper::pepper::pepper::pepper::pepper::pepper:









http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2121/2232128188_7ae6d7822f.jpg?v=0http://images.townnews.com/ladowntownnews.com/content/articles/2008/12/22/news/12-22-08-news03.jpg

how deep was the mat foundation on this structure. The x-bracing are out of this world...piece of art. Superb job by the steel sub.....who was it and G.C.

Great work Wolve

:banana::banana::banana::banana::banana:

So Wolverine, you're gonna get assigned to the new hotel, right? ;) We'll all love you for it, lol.

The building was officially topped out on Friday December 19th 2008. The first column was erected on January 23rd 2008. MERRY CHRISTMAS! :pepper::pepper::pepper::pepper::pepper::pepper::pepper::pepper::pepper::pepper::pepper:









http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2121/2232128188_7ae6d7822f.jpg?v=0http://images.townnews.com/ladowntownnews.com/content/articles/2008/12/22/news/12-22-08-news03.jpg

Wow. That fast? This building had more progress than NYC's Freedom Tower in 10 years! :lol:

MERRY CHRISTMAS! :pepper::pepper::pepper::pepper::pepper::pepper::pepper::pepper::pepper::pepper::pepper:

If you get tired of taking pictures on your next building, why don't you give one of us a present: Project Photographer! If others with blogs can have access, why not one of us? I think you should nominate uhhhh Jesse? Naw, too young. King, mmmmm, too emotional. IE, no way- not enough class, plus, he's holding my dog hostage. So I say MEE! I'll gladly take fabulous pics every day!

Well I was thinking about going over to the dream center and taking pictures of the progress this week... but now I donno...

It's a rainy day so I had to do some simple photo editing

December 22, 2008

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3086/3128640189_519fc85d34_b.jpg

Not much change... I didn't realize it took longer to put glass up than to construct the building itself

It's funny 'cause it's true

The glass started mid July so they have 6 more months to reach the one year mark like steel. They have been erecting glass panels at night from 10pm to 6am so the crane can be used for steel during the day and glass at night. Guess what? Steel is complete so glass may be going 24/7??? Glass panels are also installed by Union Ironworkers! :cheers1:

its not the glass but the actual interior of the structue that takes the looooongest.
remember Hanover? or better yet Evo? lol Ill wait though

Evo was ridiculous. I couldn't believe how long it took them to finish that thing off. Hanover seemed like it went a lot quicker at that. I hope this hotel doesn't take as long as Evo.

for-evo

So what are they going to do for New Years nothing special..?

^^ Probably something, but improving with the next years?

December 26, 2008

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3130/3139017611_764d8b52cd_b.jpg

Glass came up another 2 floors since my last picture ( four days ago )

And I just noticed that little thing on top...
What is that? Helipad?

That helipad makes the building look bad. I know it's needed but it looks weird just sticking out. :ohno:

On a brighter note, the view of LA Live/Staples Center that they kept showing yesterday during the Laker game looked really nice.

^^ There's going to be some extra fin sticking up covering it

but I guess we might see it from this angle since we're looking at the back side of it

http://i56.photobucket.com/albums/g189/FROMLOSANGELES/RITZCARLTON.gif

That looks nice, I thought the heli pad was built on top of that :lol: :nuts:

You will see the helipad as it is now. There will be no more steel erected. The Ritz signage will be located on the top 2 floors as you see it in the picture.

^^ Ew for real?
Did they change that somewhere along the way?

I guess that makes sense, if the sign was right next to the heli pad the blades might hit it or something else.
At night you shouldn't be able to see it. :banana:

I thought the sign was going to extend to the same level as the helipad- covering it but not hovering over it

[]\... < like that

You will see the helipad as it is now. There will be no more steel erected. The Ritz signage will be located on the top 2 floors as you see it in the picture.
oh god really?! :(

Do not worry, young grasshopper! It will be the best goddam looking helipad this side of Dubai. 'Rine will see to it. It will sparkle like diamonds! What kind of celebrity wants to disembark from a helicopter and not be seen from the street?

So the building must be taller!

^^ i'm sure u're talking about the burj al arab. Even though it protrudes out infront of it's "belly", it "goes"with the rest of the building. This HeliPad looks more like a dunce cap.

I hope you're right and that it sparkles like diamonds.

The top of the helipad is at 663'. If you look at the picture above you can see how the galvanized false work extends the top of the building to the north on the west side and on the east side it extends to the south. Look closely at the picture and the rendering. It is extended for the Ritz sign.

Do not worry, young grasshopper! It will be the best goddam looking helipad this side of Dubai. 'Rine will see to it. It will sparkle like diamonds! What kind of celebrity wants to disembark from a helicopter and not be seen from the street?

will it really?
or is this a milqism?

December 29, 2008

http://img508.imageshack.us/img508/2210/lalalaez4.jpg

L.A. Live's not perfect, but it's a step in the right direction, according to Ed Fuentes of blogdowntown, who believes 2009 will be a real test for the project. Meanwhile, LA Live's most significant moment might have come during the Dec. 25th Lakers-Celtics game when shots of downtown were shown to a national audience. Curbed LA

HAPPY NEW YEAR DEAR FRIENDS ANGELINOS!!!!

http://img396.imageshack.us/img396/4824/lalive20090101035806ez5.jpg

http://img352.imageshack.us/img352/9718/lalive20090101070244dd9.jpg

I thought for sure something spectacular would happen @ LA Live for New Year's but I didn't see anything on TV. That's disappointing!

^^ Ya.. I was trying to find anything on LA but it's either NY or LV

They should have had that party under the tents spill over into LA Live, like maybe put some tents in that direction :nuts:?

There's always next year :ohno:

I heard on the news there was some big party going on at LA Live.

i found a youtube vid of a celebration and countdown.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KlnxqM2MDmo

L.A live on New Years Day
vimlAF5hro0

Pretty good crowd!

Joey, are you YouTube's 'LosAngelesBeauty?'

Happy New Year, D! Who took these pics? http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee192/trolltoast/lalive20090101035806ez5.jpg http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee192/trolltoast/lalive20090101070244dd9.jpg

Very Dubai

Happy New Year, D!
Who took these pics?



Thanks...Those pics are from the LA Live's webcam...

i found a youtube vid of a celebration and countdown.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KlnxqM2MDmo

Feels more like Disneyland than downtown LA. And where's the confetti?

Joey, are you YouTube's 'LosAngelesBeauty?'

Oh no that someone else.

thats Brigham (a SSP forumer) who goes by the same name. Nice videos it just shows theres soo much potential for LA Live and the surrounding area in general. Ppl complain about the NYE show there but I say we should wait until NYE 2010 to see what AEG has up their sleeves. This show was kinda a half-ass production seeing also that the whole complex just opened up last month. I for one hope for a complete overhaul of the Robotron Xmas Tree and more lighting and decor to relieve the starkness of the area. keep the angels and lighting on the trees and lightposts yearlong.

I seriously wish there was some sort of magic red carpet that led the block East to the Blue Line. It's amazing that SO MANY PEOPLE are there but chances are only 20-25% of them took the train there. Less Disney, more CITY!

I've seen many heading towards the 7th Metro Center subway station a few blocks north.

January 5, 2009

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http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1096/3172580066_58617b0019_o.jpg

glass is going sloooooow.

Ya... all they added were the sides of the two floors that they were working on since Dec 26

I've seen many heading towards the 7th Metro Center subway station a few blocks north.
Weird, so have I.

Panasonic to be a sponsor at L.A. Live
Panasonic will be one of eight companies in such deals with the AEG venue.
By Alana Semuels
January 7, 2009
AEG, the company that owns and operates the budding entertainment hub L.A. Live, plans to announce today that it has secured Panasonic System Solutions Co. as a founding sponsor for the venue, despite the difficulties of attracting advertisers in the current economy.

Panasonic will be one of eight sponsors committing to multimillion-dollar contracts over several years. Others include Coca-Cola Co., American Express Co. and Wachovia Corp.



L.A. Live serves up eateries and clubs L.A. Live panoramaDetails of the Panasonic deal were not disclosed.

L.A. Live is a $2.5-billion entertainment project that features a music venue, a movie theater, a Grammy museum and dozens of restaurants spread over 4 million square feet in downtown Los Angeles. A high-rise hotel and condo on the property are not yet open.

Under the terms of the partnership, Panasonic will install more than 1,000 TV monitors throughout L.A. Live, as well as an 8,000-square-foot screen that AEG says is the largest in North America.


The companies plan to use L.A. Live to unveil and showcase Panasonic products and solicit consumer feedback on them, said J.M. Allain, president of Panasonic System Solutions.

"We want this campus to not just equal Times Square but be ahead of Times Square in its technology," AEG President Timothy J. Lieweke said.

Advertising and sponsorship dollars are getting tougher to attract. IEG Sponsorship Report, a trade magazine, predicts North America growth in that industry of just 2.2% from 2008 to 2009, which would be the smallest increase in the forecast's history.

Entertainment sponsorship, which L.A. Live would fall under, is projected to rise just 1.9% overall.

Flat-screen television companies have ramped up their sponsorship commitments in the last few years, said William Chipps, senior editor with IEG Sponsorship Report.

In a competitive market, they're eager to get their products in front of consumers at different venues and stadiums, he said.

The Panasonic deal will also put its products in other AEG venues, including 12 that are planned or completed in China. "We look at this as an investment in future technologies," Allain said.

I went to LA Live yesterday, and wasn't very impressed.

LA Live saw you yesterday, and wasn't very impressed either. ;)

I went to LA Live yesterday, and wasn't very impressed.

:bash:

Its not even 1/3 complete yet. LET IT FINISH DAMNIT!!!!!!!
and if someones not impressed once its finished "Who gives a fuck!"
I dont! I just want it to serve its purpose and bring life to downtown. Times Square isnt really impressive either...but it keeps people coming! Im also glad L.A. live isnt filled with restaurants such as Fridays, Red Lobster, and others found in your suburbs like in Times Square.

Why are you using what he said to bash Times Square? You sound like a pissed off little girl on the rag, really dude. I didn't get any indication out of him that La Live was supposed to stack up to, or emulate, or be anything other than La Live. Look Times Square (now) sucks for anyone other than a giddy tourist or someone making money off the place (and even they probably don't give a rats ass what it feels like to be in the middle of it) but its an enourmous hallway (best way to explain that), outside, covered in glitzy advertisements and flashing screens 360 degrees at a rather long X intersection , with about a quarter to half a million people around you on a good afternoon/evening. Most of us in NY avoid it at any cost but we've been there once or twice and at least from my standpoint, its a pretty impressive site when you just stand in the middle of it. Regarding TGIF, Red Lobster... eh who cares they can do better all around but it is what it is.

They're going to have a big tailgate party at Nokia plaza before one of the upcoming king games.
You can get tickets here (https://www.aegtickets.com/default.aspx?c=OfferDetails&eid=1392) but I doubt anyone
would want to since the kings area horrible team :lol:

They should do this before every game.

Why are you using what he said to bash Times Square? You sound like a pissed off little girl on the rag, really dude. Regarding TGIF, Red Lobster... eh who cares they can do better all around but it is what it is.

What? Please. Im not bashing Times Square. I get upset when people judge a work before the finished product is done. The bold is my attitude towards many projects as well.

What? Please. Im not bashing Times Square. I get upset when people judge a work before the finished product is done. The bold is my attitude towards many projects as well.

At the end of the day, L.a live will always be compared to Times square for sure weather you like it or not. I don't think we built it to just COPY Times square, but mearly to bring some much needed life to the center of our city.

New York is a magnificant city, they really got that urban thing down. Weather or not we do, or don't try to emulate T.S- at the end of the day who really gives a shit? Nobody! You know why? Tourist and locals will always flock to these centers to be a part of something- mostly to people watch- I always say :)

The United States of America has trully built some of the worlds most beautiful cities. I really don't care if it's built here or in Chicago, or New York as long as we continue to build higher and it has the word "United States of America attached to it! :banana::banana::banana:

What? Please. Im not bashing Times Square. I get upset when people judge a work before the finished product is done. The bold is my attitude towards many projects as well.

I think CarsonCaliBrotha was referring more to LA Live's urban form than its overall aesthetics. LA Live is a manufactured corporate development with a high degree of insularity. There is nothing organic or evolutionary about it -- it was created overnight. The most deplorable aspect of LA Live is not its architecture or its mindless display of billboards, but its two parking garages.

At the end of the day, L.a live will always be compared to Times square for sure weather you like it or not. I don't think we built it to just COPY Times square, but mearly to bring some much needed life to the center of our city.

Who compares LA Live to Times Square? "Times Square West", like "Subway to the Sea", is a catchy slogan thrown around purely for marketing purposes. Do you honestly think we'll still be marketing LA Live as "Times Square West" 5-10 years down the road?

And a lot of people forget the original intent of LA Live -- to boost convention center business and, only recently, revitalize DTLA.

They're going to have a big tailgate party at Nokia plaza before one of the upcoming king games.
You can get tickets here (https://www.aegtickets.com/default.aspx?c=OfferDetails&eid=1392) but I doubt anyone
would want to since the kings area horrible team :lol:

They should do this before every game.

hey the Kings arent horrible!

Listen to these people and these moderators! Why can't anyone be nice anymore. My tum tum's upset- now I haveta go bafroom :)

AEG's Partnership with Panasonic to Bring 8,000 Square Foot Screen to L.A. Live Hotel

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Panasonic Systems Company President J.M. Allain said today that his firm intends to make L.A. Live a technological showplace.
January 7, 2009
DOWNTOWN LOS ANGELES — A massive 8,000 square foot screen is slated to go on the side of L.A. Live's convention center hotel as part of a deal announced today between AEG and Panasonic System Solutions. The sponsorship deal will place the manufacturer's high-definition screens all over the entertainment complex.

At a press conference on the Nokia Plaza this afternoon, both AEG and Panasonic talked of their desire to make the campus a technological showplace.

J.M. Allain, President of Panasonic's System Solutions unit, said this his firm wants to make L.A. Live the place where it brings its clients to show them all that the technology company is capable of.

The deal will result in upgrades to most screens installed in Staples Center and the Nokia Theatre.
http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee192/trolltoast/3179263286_3edb1356d8_b-1.jpg
The biggest announcement of the day, though not mentioned in the press conference, was an 8,000 square foot display to be installed on an eastern face of the complex's hotel tower. AEG Senior Vice President Ted Tanner told blogdowntown today that the giant screen -- roughly 50 feet wide and 160 feet tall -- would be configured in a way that would still allow hotel guests to see out of their rooms.
Currently, North America's largest video display is a 7,920 square foot screen at Chase Field, home of the Arizona Diamondbacks. That screen is 144 feet long and 55 feet high. Both screens are smaller than a 11,200 square foot display slated to be installed in the Dallas Cowboys' new stadium, which opens this fall.

The deal makes Panasonic a "Founding Partner" in the L.A. Live complex and Staples Center. Along with providing displays, the company will also be involved in building out AEG's broadcast facilities using its HD equipment.

In January of 2007, AEG announced a deal to place Olevia brand HDTV sets throughout the complex, but that agreement fell apart when maker Syntax-Brillian experienced serious financial issues a year ago.

The L.A. Live entertainment complex houses the Nokia Theatre, Club Nokia, Grammy Museum, Conga Room, Lucky Strike, an ESPN broadcast facility, ESPNZone and a variety of restaurants. Nokia Theatre opened in 2007, but the rest came online late in 2008. AEG CEO Tim Leiweke said today that the complex has already generated $10 million in sales. Eric Richardson BlogDowntown http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee192/trolltoast/3179263286_3edb1356d8-1.jpg This face of the L.A. Live hotel tower will hold the 8,000 square foot LED screen announced as part of the partnership with Panasonic. The display will be roughly 50 feet wide and 160 feet tall. AEG Senior Vice President Ted Tanner said today that the company has approvals to add a second similar screen facing south.

I think CarsonCaliBrotha was referring more to LA Live's urban form than its overall aesthetics. LA Live is a manufactured corporate development with a high degree of insularity. There is nothing organic or evolutionary about it -- it was created overnight. The most deplorable aspect of LA Live is not its architecture or its mindless display of billboards, but its two parking garages.

Exactly! I walked through it, and it's just disappointing how it doesn't really feel like a city thing. .It just feels very Disneyfied. I mean, it's better than a giant parking lot, but I'm hoping they add some signage to the Blue Line, the DASH, and the Metro bus lines. Even though people criticize Times Square for being fake and watered down, it still feels like a city. Even with the hotels, it really needs rail access.

hey the Kings arent horrible!

I'm a Ducks fan :)

That screen will be great, something to make LA Live unique and point it in right direction!

Exactly! I walked through it, and it's just disappointing how it doesn't really feel like a city thing. .It just feels very Disneyfied. I mean, it's better than a giant parking lot, but I'm hoping they add some signage to the Blue Line, the DASH, and the Metro bus lines. Even though people criticize Times Square for being fake and watered down, it still feels like a city. Even with the hotels, it really needs rail access.

It has rail access, the only problem is that people don't feel the need to use it because of plentiful parking and relatively light traffic. If we get LA Central, Metropolis, and the new hotel that AEG was talking about, then traffic down there will get horrendous and you will see a lot more people taking the Blue Line.

Was AEG required to build parking at LA Live, or was that just their decision? I would assume that they were required for the hotel, but did they build more above that number? Basically, would lessening or eliminating minimum parking requirements make a difference as of right now for new projects?

There needs to be a Blue Line stop at Flower/Olympic.

^^Why? That's not even half of a mile from Pico.

I disagree. It's funny how a few trees with lights can make a difference. The vibe from LA Live can be seen and experienced from 3-4 blocks heading east. You know it's there. I felt it. And this is the first time i've been there.

http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b43/samceb/ritz1.jpg

http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b43/samceb/ritz.jpg

^^Why? That's not even half of a mile from Pico.

Why not? It's not uncommon for city centers to have stations within 0.1-0.5 miles of each other. This is true for SF, CHI, BOS, NYC, and DC.

It should definitely have at least signage to it. I mean at least in Times Square there's huge portals on every end. In Hollywood and Highland you can't miss the station. In Downtown LA there's plenty of signage to Metro stations. LA Live should have it, because if you're not a native, how would you really know it's there?

Why not? It's not uncommon for city centers to have stations within 0.1-0.5 miles of each other. This is true for SF, CHI, BOS, NYC, and DC.

They also run express trains. We don't, we didn't build the extra tracks for that. The stations would just be too close to each other. Signs, sure, that'll help, but an extra station is just not worth the money.

Also, once you get LA Central, many more people will walk through there. Walking next to a parking lot is not really a very attractive option.

Which brings up the point, we may need to grade-separate that station if it gets too crowded. At-grade stations like that are good for neighborhoods, but they can't accommodate huge crowds. We'll see what happens with the DTC and if LA Central will have to pay anything to help.

It should definitely have at least signage to it. I mean at least in Times Square there's huge portals on every end. In Hollywood and Highland you can't miss the station. In Downtown LA there's plenty of signage to Metro stations. LA Live should have it, because if you're not a native, how would you really know it's there?

Maps?

They also run express trains. We don't, we didn't build the extra tracks for that. The stations would just be too close to each other. Signs, sure, that'll help, but an extra station is just not worth the money.

But there's also the Expo Line, so service will be more frequent. One light rail station won't be enough to accommodate the prospective density in South Park. I'm not saying it should be a priority, but just something to consider.

And your argument doesn't address the fact that once the Regional Connector is built, stations in the Financial District, Bunker Hill, Civic Center, and Little Tokyo will be 0.3-0.5 miles apart from each other.

That area is also much more hilly. It's not very conducive to walking. In South Park, 2/5 of a mile isn't that big of a deal.

It has rail access, the only problem is that people don't feel the need to use it because of plentiful parking and relatively light traffic. If we get LA Central, Metropolis, and the new hotel that AEG was talking about, then traffic down there will get horrendous and you will see a lot more people taking the Blue Line.

Was AEG required to build parking at LA Live, or was that just their decision? I would assume that they were required for the hotel, but did they build more above that number? Basically, would lessening or eliminating minimum parking requirements make a difference as of right now for new projects?

Sheesh some people! Thanx Phatt. Times Square feels organic because after a solid century + being the heart of NYC, experiencing lofty heights and tragic lows it is an inseperable part mentally as well as physically for NYC. LA Live should not and is not the LA equivalent to what TS is for NYC, that would be Hollywood. Hollywood is truly LA's TS and has had a similar history of glamour and gutter. Many feel this way including myself that if Hollywood is doing well so is LA. Hollywood is urban, organic and is basically a canon of Los Angeles history. To continue with NYC references LA Live has the feel of Battery Park pre 9/11 and I'm hoping will evolve into more of a Rockefeller Center than a TS.

^ I think Broadway could also be considered LA's Times Square, because it too has seen its ups and downs.

January 13, 2009

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^^cool pics...did u get a new cam?

^^cool pics...did u get a new cam?

For a long time now haha

Did you.... I thought I saw Wolverine!

i can't wait for an actual movie theatre complex to open downtown! it's annoying having to go all the way to The Grove or even Graumann's in hollywood for a good fresh movie.

I drove 300 miles to The Chinese numerous times! No regrets

architecturally, it's a good place to see and the interior is gorgeous, but that place shows few movies at a time and is definately too far for a downtowner to see a matinee and later pick up groceries on the way back to the loft. the only theatres operating in downtown now are only one screen venues and show foreign films, old tv shows, or are special audience related in some way. i'm talking about going to a theatre with the choices of "yes man, valkyrie, marley and me, the CC of BB", and more... then go off to doing daily errands or going to the conga room with the old friends you just introduced to the undiscovered heart of their own city.

LA LIVE will save the day!

Do the theatre and the hotel have the same completion date in 2010?

Nice Pics in 2170, IE. 1st one in particular looks great with the view of LA Live splitting right down the freeway. Must be a nice view from there.

architecturally, it's a good place to see and the interior is gorgeous, but that place shows few movies at a time and is definately too far for a downtowner to see a matinee and later pick up groceries on the way back to the loft. the only theatres operating in downtown now are only one screen venues and show foreign films, old tv shows, or are special audience related in some way. i'm talking about going to a theatre with the choices of "yes man, valkyrie, marley and me, the CC of BB", and more... then go off to doing daily errands or going to the conga room with the old friends you just introduced to the undiscovered heart of their own city.

Try the Laemmle Grande 4-plex in the Marriott on Fig. The theaters are small and need a little TLC but you can see first run movies there without travelling very far. Right now they are showing Gran Torino, Bride Wars, Valkyrie, and Two Lovers.

I sure hope the Regal Cinemas won't be done in that tacky Art Deco inspired architecture as shown in previous models.

The Obama inauguration will be shown at LA Live. Anyone going?

^^ yeah me, going with some friends and co-workers

January 18, 2009

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Letters are up on the JW Marriott...Actually, just JW M...

From the Longwood Highlands...

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From Flickr, Social Sound System (http://www.flickr.com/photos/socialsoundsystem/)

The Obama inauguration will be shown at LA Live. Anyone going?

Video from the inauguration - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UKzGdbwQ1TY

To those critics of LA Live - where else in LA could we have had one big shared, public celebration like that? It sure looks like a gathering space to me.

Wow...it was really crowded there. Definitely the future meeting place for Angelenos! I mean you can stand across the street too and see the huge screens still.

Pictures at LA Live on Obama Day.
http://i135.photobucket.com/albums/q138/tmaxx6/laliveobama.jpg
http://i135.photobucket.com/albums/q138/tmaxx6/laliveobama2.jpg

Considering that the place is still under construction with many restaurants and venues yet to be opened, this looks really promising.

So who went to the Nokia Plaza yesterday? I can see klam was there, I showed up as well (me and my brother were next to the big screen, under the northeast tower). We came from the San Bernardino and would've gotten there sooner if the 10 wasn't screwed up, but we arrived at 8 so I can't complain.

Highlights:

- Who was that guy signing our country's anthems?

- LOL @ everyone booing when they showed Bush's face.

- The aura that enveloped the plaza when Obama took his oath and speech was absolutely indescribable. Everyone around me was either smiling, had tears of joy, or just watched the screen in awe.

I can finally see why the Nokia Plaza is there. :yes: Here's to more gatherings and good luck to our new president.

http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee192/trolltoast/3213436342_36fb372da0_b.jpg Eric Richardson/Flickr

^Holy Jesus its beautiful

I must say that I'm very impressed with the viewer turnout. I was expecting at most a few hundred, not 2,000.

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From Flickr, STERLINGDAVISPHOTO (http://www.flickr.com/photos/sterlingdavisphoto/)

^^ I like the Angel's in the light-post... very creative!!!!

Are they gonna be leaving the festive lights on all year?

Hope so. I was down there last night for the Sharon Jones concert and I'm very impressed with the Nokia Club.

January 28, 2009

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I used to think Phase 2 looked huge, but now with the Ritz in the background, even Staples seems small! From dusty parking lot to entertainment capital of the city, what else can AEG do?

Nice work I E! Nice work Wolverine! Great glass.

Nice!http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee192/trolltoast/3235735874_581c3a90db_b.jpg IMPERFECT ENDING/SSC

What does Wolverine do for LA Live again? I missed him introducing himself- sorry :D

Another (possibly) redundant question.

Will the horizontal stripes be lit up at night?

There is a building they just remodeled on sunset with these horizontal stripes and it looks cool.

Funny, but the Gas Tower has horizontal stripes and the office workers complained so much about internal light pollution they were permanently shut off.

I.E wolverine was our inside source to the steel erection of the hotel. He would give us photo updates about the floors being erected, cool kid. I love the glass too thats gonna be one sexy tower, worthy of being the visual "icon" of the South Park district. Did u get pics of the interior of LA Live? next time I visit LA im gonna go check it out everything should be up and running fully by then.

^^ there's not much to see in the interior yet... you're just allowed to walk around the plaza and some other walkway to other restaurants

I went for lunch the other day. Not much going on during the afternoon. I guess that makes sense.

I'll try to get some interior pictures on Monday. Not much but a little tile and some paint.

Well well well.... look who took his gaze from the clouds and directed it down here to the peons on Earth. sorry...

February 2, 2009

Alvarado & Olympic
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And wtf is this that I'm seeing all over

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That is one of the most pathetic things I've seen in my entire life.

I'm leaving those out for you- keys for the locks are nearby. Put my dog in there with a few days food an stuff, and mail him to the main post office here in Vegas- Sunset Branch. I'll........ make sure he gets to my howse safe an sownd! :naughty:

great addition for LA, however, the tower is on stand-by? it was a while she's like that? no more money?

I bet the plastic rock is a rat killer.

Anyone else want to guess?

^^ my guess is out door speakers

I bet the plastic rock is a rat killer.


I second that, I've seen those around Orange County too and that's what they were.

^^ my guess is out door speakers
This is my guess.

I thought they were outdoor speakers but then I didn't see any wires attached and outdoor speakers don't look THAT disposable

http://jbcproducts.com/library/HOMETECHDELUXEROCKSPEAKERS-ht10034.jpg

Oh and another thing...

Why did they design the restaurant kitchen vents to blow on people as they walk by?

great addition for LA, however, the tower is on stand-by? it was a while she's like that? no more money?

Well it's topped out so it's not going to get any taller. They've been putting more and more of the exterior glass on and have begun work on the interior I believe. It's not on stand-by.

Can you pick one of the "rocks" up IE?

I kicked the ones on the ground level around before and I didn't see any wires

Oh and another thing...

Why did they design the restaurant kitchen vents to blow on people as they walk by?

I don't know, but it's really annoying and loud. They need to do something about that, especially if they're planning to have outdoor seating right across the way. :ohno:

Walking around LA Live makes me smell like kitchen smoke and grease

There had to be a trade-off :)

No there didn't.

No there didn't.

que?

It just made me want to eat......I think that is the intent.

que?
There didn't have to be a trade off...

It just made me want to eat......I think that is the intent.

And the noise then?

Is it really that big of a problem for you?

if it isn't I wouldn't be talking about it

I thought it was too loud also. They should have placed those vents at the top of the building. I'm sure they could've circulated the air through there.

AEG launching HD studio in downtown L.A.
$15 million facility under construction near Staples
By Paul Bond
Hollywood Reporter
Feb 4, 2009, 08:20 PM ET

Sports and entertainment entity AEG said Wednesday that it has created AEG Prods., a multiplatform HD studio under construction near the Staples Center.

The $15 million facility will overlook L.A. Live, the recently opened residential and entertainment district built for $2.5 billion on 4 million square feet in downtown Los Angeles.

Technically, AEG Prods.' first show, a news special called "L.A. Comes Alive," has already aired, though without carrying the new company's logo.

Discussions are under way now for new TV and broadband shows to begin production in about a month, said Michael Goldfine, the former "Extra" showrunner who was tapped to run AEG Prods.

Goldfine said he'll run the new department with a small staff and hire freelancers on a show-by-show basis, producing content as small as a single Webisode up to multimillion-dollar TV shows.

Beyond L.A. Live and the Staples Center, AEG boasts such assets as Nokia Theatre, Club Nokia, Nokia Plaza and the Grammy Museum, so sports and music will be an obvious focus for AEG Prods.

"But because of what we're building, there's an opportunity to do so much more than that," Goldfine said. "We have the most amazing set I've ever seen."

Award shows, game shows, reality shows, concerts and special-event programming are all on the docket, though Goldfine would not divulge specifics.

I thought it was too loud also. They should have placed those vents at the top of the building. I'm sure they could've circulated the air through there.

well.. maybe if it is enough of a problem for most people walking by, they will do something. Just like when Disney Concert Hall's reflective skin started shining in pedestrians' eyes they had to modify it.

might just be temporary till businesses are in place and can share vents out to the top of this particular structure

I found this picture online and I saw it includes the new tower AEG's been talking about down in the bottom of the picture. Supposedly it's supposed to start construction soon.

http://www.foodgps.com/wp-content/uploads/2008/10/la-live.jpg

^^ OoOoo

nice find :yes:
you can see Jardin, LA Central and the new hotel looks to be around 20 stories tall.
lets see if we can get that to around 40 to 45 stories.
while were at it the holiday inn should move out, build a better and bigger building then have them move back in.

Could you be more specific?http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee192/trolltoast/la-liveyytttt.jpg

I'd blow up the Holiday Inn and put a W in it's place. We should steal the one that was proposed in Phoenix and put it there.
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v22/don85259/New%20Phoenix%20projects/PhoenixWHotel.jpg

I also found these pictures of what LA Live might of looked like. Pretty interesting.

http://z.about.com/d/gocalifornia/1/0/x/5/3/CommArts-Image1-a.jpg

http://latimesblogs.latimes.com/photos/uncategorized/2008/06/13/is_it_alive.jpg

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That's kinda Hollywoodish

Not that LA Live in it's current form is packed full of character, but those other renders are far too animated looking, like IE said good for Hollywood, maybe at a smaller scale at the Anaheim Resort, but not South Park. LA Central and LA Live compliment each-other so well when you see them together like that.

After looking at those old renderings, I'm glad that what we have now is the final result. Some of those renderings look like carbon copies of the Citywalk...

And we need L.A. Central built as in yesterday.

nice find :yes:
you can see Jardin, LA Central and the new hotel looks to be around 20 stories tall.
lets see if we can get that to around 40 to 45 stories.
while were at it the holiday inn should move out, build a better and bigger building then have them move back in.


LA Central is 54 and 40 story towers, Jardin is 32 and 24 i believe.

i remember those old renderings. makes me happy we got what we did as well. and i think it all looks bigger now than those renderings are showing us, as in scale and complexity of the campus

if it isn't I wouldn't be talking about it

cute.....a budding NIMBY or better yet NIMF (face).