Koreatown (K-town) “[is] home to the most neon signs, densely packed strip malls, valet parkers, and Korean restaurants in all of L.A. County.” It is also home to an impressive stock of architecture, including Art Deco and French chateau-style buildings, such as this 12-unit building on Catalina St. It retains all the glorious detail of its glamorous era and offers income-generating potential.
The Property Tour
Measuring 17,365 square feet, the twelve-unit complex offers a unit mix ranging from single-level apartments to townhouse-style residences, with two units featuring large roof decks, all loaded with historic charm and architectural details. Two of the twelve units feature two large roof decks per unit, which feels a little East Coast, allowing residents to live an indoor/outdoor lifestyle.
From the exterior, large, eye-catching leaded-stained-glass, bay, and latticed-casement windows, turret-style spires, wrought-iron gates and grillage, and decorative frieze paneling dress the structure. Inside, each unit offers spacious, elegant interiors with hardwood floors, fireplaces, and large picture windows that flood the rooms with natural light.
Historic details continue with decorative crown molding and wall insets, exposed ceiling beams, and arched doorways in select units, providing unique architectural details that add to the overall character of these units.
The Neighborhood
The property is sited on a corner lot, north of 6th Street. It’s near Chapman Market, a restored building with a “fortress-like facade, with thick concrete walls worked to resemble sandstone and ornate, Churrigueresque towers on the corners” that houses a variety of storefronts, including my favorite hand-roll joint, Kazunori.
Also nearby are The Line Hotel, Hotel Normandie, and the Wiltern Theatre, an art deco landmark at the corner of Wilshire Boulevard and Western Avenue.
