Affordable Housing Project Takes Form in Pico Union

Vertical construction is largely complete for Vermont Manzanita, an affordable housing project located in the Pico Union neigborhood.  The five-story structure, which is being developed by the West Hollywood Community Housing Corporation (WHCHC), will feature 40 one- and three-bedroom apartments units.  According to a document from the State Treasurer's office, rents in low-rise complex will range from $233 to $1,292 per month.

In developing Vermont Manzanita, one of WHCHC's primary motivations is ensuring the safety of at-risk children.  Fifteen of the building's residential units will be reserved for families with children under the age of five.  Additionally, the Children's Institute - a local nonprofit which combats child abuse - shall act as Vermont Manzanita's lead service provider.

Designs from architecture firm Hatch-Colasuonna Studio call for lush landscaping on all levels of the building.  Other private amenities will include a children's play area, a barbeque pit and tenant community garden.

The project, located at 1225 South Vermont Avenue, sits along the path of multiple bus lines.  The building will also accommodate a small amount of automobile parking, with garage space at ground level.

Construction of Vermont Manzanita is scheduled for completion in October 2015.  For housing applications and additional information, please visit WHCHC's website.

(Image: Dreyfuss Construction)

Affordable Housing Complex Starts Work on Vermont Avenue

Image credit: Dreyfuss Construction

According to pictures sent in by an e-mail tipster, a small church near the border of Koreatown and Pico Union was recently demolished, making way for a 40-unit affordable housing development known as Vermont Manzanita.  The apartment complex is being developed by the West Hollywood Community Housing Corporation (WHCHC), and will reserve fifteen of its units for at-risk families with children under the age of five.  The developer has partnered with the Children's Institute, which shall act as lead service provider for future tenants.  Plans call for a five-story edifice, designed by Hatch Colasuonno Studio, featuring first-and-second-floor landscaping, a children's play area, a barbeque pit, and a tenant community garden.  Located at 1233 South Vermont Avenue, Vermont Manzanita is WHCHC's second project within Los Angeles city limits.

Founded in 1986, WHCHC can claim a portfolio of more than one dozen affordable housing communities throughout the greater Los Angeles region.  Although they primarily focus on properties in West Hollywood, WHCHC has previously undertaken developments in Glendale and East Los Angeles.  Perhaps their most visible project is the Patrick Tighe-designed Courtyard at La Brea, a five-story structure located on Santa Monica Boulevard.