Onni Reconfigures LA’s Arts District Project for Apartments

Introduction to the Project

Onni Group is moving forward with a residential-focused mixed-use development in the Arts District on the edge of Downtown Los Angeles. The Vancouver-based developer submitted a new application to the City of Los Angeles, according to Urbanize Los Angeles.

Project Details

The plans outline two high-rise buildings at 2143 East Violet Street — one 30 stories and the other 19 stories. The towers will include a total of 474 residential units consisting of one-, two-, and three-bedroom apartments. Additionally, the project will feature just over 2,000 square feet of ground-floor commercial space and subterranean parking.

Compliance with Measure JJJ

As part of its compliance with Measure JJJ, Onni’s development will also include 76 units designated for very low- and extremely low-income residents.

Changes in Project Plans

Designed by the architecture firm SCB, the project has undergone a change from office to residential since its initial submission last year. However, the buildings’ heights remain the same — 344 feet and 226 feet, respectively. Originally, Onni had secured approvals in 2021 for a development on the same site that included a larger office component with 187,000 square feet of workspace and 347 apartments.

Shift in Market Demand

With much of Los Angeles’ office space now underutilized, developers like Onni have pivoted to prioritize housing. This mirrors decisions made by others in the area, such as Tishman Speyer, which recently canceled plans for a nearby office project.

Market Trends

The changes reflect a larger trend within the local real estate market as developers shift away from office projects in the wake of decreased demand following the COVID-19 pandemic.

Onni’s Continued Presence in LA

While Onni is not expanding at the aggressive rate it once did, the company continues to pursue new developments in the L.A. region. Its current projects include a high-rise under construction at Olympic Boulevard and Hill Street in Downtown Los Angeles and a planned two-tower complex in Glendale. The shift in strategy signals Onni’s ongoing commitment to the region while adapting to changing market demands.

Read more

Tishman Speyer kills 10-story office project in DTLA’s Arts District
Housing construction in LA is down, and developers blame Measure JJJ

Conclusion

Onni Group’s decision to reconfigure its LA’s Arts District project for apartments reflects the shifting landscape of the real estate market in Los Angeles. The pivot towards residential development is a strategic move in response to decreased demand for office space. This change also highlights the company’s commitment to adapting to the evolving needs of the market and community.

FAQs

• Q: What is the Onni Group’s new project in the Arts District?
  A: The Onni Group is developing a residential-focused mixed-use project with two high-rise buildings, featuring 474 residential units and commercial space.
• Q: Why did Onni change the project plans from office to residential?
  A: The change was made in response to the decreased demand for office space in the area following the COVID-19 pandemic.
• Q: What is Measure JJJ, and how does it impact the project?
  A: Measure JJJ requires developers to include affordable housing units in their projects. Onni’s development will include 76 units for very low- and extremely low-income residents to comply with this measure.
• Q: What other projects is Onni currently pursuing in the LA region?
  A: Onni is working on a high-rise in Downtown Los Angeles and a two-tower complex in Glendale, demonstrating its continued investment in the region.