The Hollywood Downtowner

Photographer Credit: Paul Vu

Architecture Firm Credit: Kadre Architects

See Full Credit List Below

TOUR DETAILS

The Hollywood Downtowner project acts as an example of how to successfully approach an adaptive re-use project with highly specific needs, while also working closely with the historic preservation society.

The Hollywood Downtowner provides a vital safety net for transition-aged youth, offering services and support as residents build life skills for independent living. Once a three-story vintage masonry motel from Hollywood’s Golden Age, the building has been transformed into 31 units of interim housing, complete with a service center, communal lounge, and outdoor space.

Drawing on its location along Hollywood Boulevard and the site’s historic character including the iconic vintage sign, the design embraces the existing Googie balconies overlooking the street and repurposes the former pool deck into a central garden gathering space. In close collaboration with the historic preservation society, the original stone façade was carefully preserved, even while addressing the challenge of creating an ADA-accessible entry. A gently sloped walkway was introduced with minimal impact on the historic street presence, anchoring the building to the boulevard while framing views of the neon sign and newly netted courtyard.

To address resident safety concerns, stainless steel cable netting encloses the boulevard-facing balconies while maintaining the historic façade. The netting creates an undulating form that plays geometrically against the curves of the historic roof—visually dynamic when viewed at an angle, yet nearly invisible from the street.

The former manager’s office was converted into a shared communal space without sacrificing residential units. Overlooking Hollywood Boulevard, this café-like lounge allows residents to prepare food, work, relax, and connect with case managers. With a limited budget that couldn’t accommodate a commissioned mural, Kadre’s design team painted the space themselves—a hands-on contribution and gift to the mission.

TOUR HOST

Nerin Kadribegovic, FAIA – Founder, Kadre Architects

As a Principal with Kadre Architects, Nerin Kadribegovic, FAIA is one of LA’s design leaders working on resolving homelessness through a variety of emergency and permanent housing solutions. An expert in design and delivery, he works closely with private and governmental officials and leads design efforts in providing emergency shelter and permanent housing for nearly 2,000 houseless Angelenos over the last two years. Nerin’s passion for navigating complex design problems, especially where economy is of paramount importance, captures an eye for beauty and design, notably in social cause, that results in unconventional, award-winning solutions. Obsessed with artfully directing natural light to create nuanced, playful moments, he ushers a spirit of dignity into places, where least expected.

TOUR MEETING SPOT

5601 Hollywood Blvd, Los Angeles CA 90028

LEARNING OBJECTIVES

This project falls under HSW guidelines. The relevant learning objectives are as follows:
– Safety and Security Measures
– Accessibility
– Building Design
– Site Design

PARKING

There are a few spots in the back but will likely be all street parking.

FULL CREDIT LIST (Architects, Builders, Engineers, etc.)

Client: Covenant House, California
Developer: Brisa Development Partners
Architect: Kadre Architects
Interiors: Kadre Architects
Structural Engineer: Nous
Civil Engineer: Barbara Hall & Associates, PE
Mechanical Engineer: CEG
Landscape: Kadre with EPT