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Apache is functioning normally

May 25, 2023 by Brett Tams

For the longest time, luxury homes were synonymous with opulence, deriving their worth from their lavish interiors, massive scale, and over-the-top features. But gone are the days when oversized crystal chandeliers were crowning living spaces and imposing staircases with intricate wrought-iron railings were the pinnacle of luxury.

Modern luxury is devoted to the creation of beauty and function, with livable, inviting spaces dethroning Gilded Age-worthy interiors and overt opulence.

In fact, the shared point of aesthetic reference for the modern luxury space is centered on minimalism, with spaces that cater to both the physical and mental wellbeing of its residents. And we’ve found the best example of that: a newly built contemporary masterpiece that recently came to market in the coveted Brentwood neighborhood of Los Angeles.

The $70 million home is a modern architectural feat that’s just as striking and spectacular as it is warm and inviting. Credit for that goes to the powerhouse team behind the project, which consists of award-winning architect Noah Walker, AD 100 interior designer, Jamie Bush, and renowned landscape designer, Christine London LTD, who all worked together to bring this tour de force to life.

^{Image credit: Benny Chan courtesy of The Agency}

A 19,000-square-foot architectural marvel

A long private driveway leads to the tiered property, where the expansive home immediately makes an impression with its contemporary yet warm appearance, clean lines and abundant natural materials.

Set on a sprawling four-acre lot, the house offers six bedrooms and 12 bathrooms alongside many recreation rooms — all spread across approx. 19,000 square feet of indoor space.

The Brentwood property has 270-degree views of the city, ocean and canyon, and a long list of amenities that include a theater room — with acoustical wall paneling and a commercial cinema-quality projection system — a gym with a steam room, a 75-foot indoor lap pool, outdoor architectural pool and dual offices.

^{Image credit: Benny Chan courtesy of The Agency}

Warm interiors create a sophisticated yet inviting space

Credit for the perfectly appointed interiors goes to Jamie Bush, who is recognized for his ability to blur the lines between the architecture of a building and its interior design.

Jamie’s designs have been featured in over 70 publications worldwide including Architectural Digest, Interior Design, Vogue, Elle Décor, Wall Street Journal, Los Angeles Times as well as several coffee table books.

His design style, combined with Noah Walker’s approach to architecture — centered on creating modern structures that are warmly minimal with careful considerations of light, space and the unique qualities of each project’s location — created a truly outstanding home.

^{Image credit: Benny Chan courtesy of The Agency}

The primary suite has its own separate wing

The entire home has been envisioned as a relaxation oasis. But just in case that’s not enough, the primary suite has been contained in its own wing, to ensure maximum privacy.

Sliding doors open to balconies overlooking the large grassy yard, presenting views that extend across the canyon to the ocean. The primary suite has Poliform walk-in closets — one with a vanity — and a sitting area separated by a double-sided fireplace.

Its ensuite bathroom includes dual vanities and a freestanding tub, a chaise lounge and a connected outdoor lounge seating area. Each additional bedroom suite includes its own marvelous views and impeccable design; the upper level has two additional bedrooms with Juliet balconies and the lower level’s two bedrooms open to beautifully landscaped gardens and walkways.

^{Image credit: Benny Chan courtesy of The Agency}

On the market for $70 million

The newly built 19,000-home has been recently listed for sale with an ambitious $70 million asking price.

Blair Chang with The Agency has been tasked with finding a buyer, a very inspired choice seeing that his expertise and sales track record made him one of the highest producing real estate agents in the country (according to RealTrends + Tom Ferry America’s Best Real Estate Professionals’ ranking), bringing in $141,870,500 in sales volume last year alone.

And given the price point, along with the property’s stellar attributes, we’re going to keep an eye on this one. Celebrities have long been snapping up homes in the Brentwood area, with A-listers like Travis Scott, Reese Witherspoon, Channing Tatum, and Mötley Crüe drummer Tommy Lee buying homes here recently. We wouldn’t be at all surprised if this architectural marvel manages to attract new star power to the area.

More luxury homes

Blogger Ashley Petrone of Arrows & Bow Is Selling Her Charming, Custom-Designed House
Jeweler to the Stars Pascal Mouawad Wants $15.75 Million for His Luxury Bel-Air Mansion
$38 Million Rosenthal Estate Has Its Own Vineyard and an Orchard with 600 Avocado Trees
What Happened to the Hollywood Hills Mansion from Netflix’s ‘Selling Sunset’?

Source: fancypantshomes.com

Apache is functioning normally

May 25, 2023 by Brett Tams

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Welcome to 2401 Pennsylvania Ave Residences, the pinnacle of luxury living in Washington, DC’s prestigious West End neighborhood. This exclusive community offers a rare opportunity to experience the finest features in each apartment, with unparalleled amenities that cater to your every need.

At 2401 Pennsylvania Ave Residences, we understand that you expect nothing but the best. That’s why our community boasts an impressive list of amenities that are designed to provide the ultimate in style, convenience, and luxury. From the expertly designed interiors with top-of-the-line finishes to the breathtaking views from our rooftop terrace lounge, you’ll find thoughtful touches throughout our community.

Our apartments feature enchanting views of DC, authentic wood-burning fireplaces, private balconies with French doors, and marble-tiled bathrooms with whirlpool bathtubs. From stainless-steel appliances to granite countertops, you’ll find stylish luxury in every inch of 2401 Penn apartments. We understand that you have discerning tastes, and we’ve designed our apartments to meet your every need.

As a member of our community, you’ll also have access to an impressive list of amenities. Indulge in the luxuries of our 24-hour full-service concierge, on-site retail and dining, and rooftop terrace with breathtaking views of the Washington Monument, downtown DC, and Georgetown. Need to get some work done? Our community features a conference center and web café, so you can stay productive without ever leaving home.

Living at 2401 Pennsylvania Ave Residences is more than just being in a premier DC location – it’s an elegant metropolitan lifestyle. Our amenities are tailored to provide the utmost convenience, so you can focus on living your best life. From pet-sitting to arranging tickets to a baseball game, our daily concierge service is here to help you get life’s tasks done so you have more time to do what you enjoy.

At 2401 Pennsylvania Ave Residences, we understand that you’re looking for more than just an apartment – you’re looking for a lifestyle. Our community is perfect for those who demand the very best in everything they do. Whether you’re a busy professional or simply looking to live in the lap of luxury, 2401 Pennsylvania Ave Residences is the perfect place to call home.

Right now, 2401 has a very special apartment available.

The Hillary is a stunning one-bedroom apartment that will leave you breathless. This spacious floor plan boasts 1400 square feet of luxurious living space, with an expansive living room, den, and two bathrooms. The sleek and modern design, combined with high-end finishes and luxurious features, make The Hillary an exceptional choice for discerning renters.

The open-concept living and dining room is perfect for entertaining, with a large space that flows seamlessly from one area to another. The living room features an impressive wood-burning fireplace, adding a cozy ambiance to your evenings at home. The large windows throughout the space fill the room with natural light and offer stunning views of the city and surrounding areas. The den provides the perfect space for a home office or a cozy reading nook, and can easily be converted into a guest room for overnight visitors.

The spacious bedroom is a luxurious retreat, with a large closet for all your storage needs. The en-suite master bathroom features marble tiled floors, a double sink vanity, a luxurious whirlpool bathtub, and a separate glass-enclosed shower. The apartment also has an additional full bathroom, perfect for guests or when you need a little extra space.

Overall, The Hillary is a perfect combination of style and functionality, with plenty of space to spread out and enjoy. With its impressive layout, high-end finishes, and luxurious amenities, The Hillary is the perfect home for anyone looking for a sophisticated and comfortable lifestyle in the heart of Washington, DC.

To experience the incredible energy of our nation’s capital at 2401 Pennsylvania Ave Residences, schedule your tour today. We look forward to welcoming you to our exclusive community.

Amazon and the Amazon logo are trademarks of Amazon.com, Inc, or its affiliates. Rental providers will not refuse to rent a rental unit to a person because the person will provide the rental payment, in whole or in part, through a voucher for rental housing assistance provided by the District or federal government.

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Source: blog.apartminty.com

Apache is functioning normally

May 24, 2023 by Brett Tams

Perhaps unsurprisingly, it didn’t take long for a castle in Georgia to find a buyer. The fanciful space is currently pending sale.

In fact, the first person who saw the Oakhurst Castle in Decatur, GA, put in an offer on the 116-year-old property. The home—a real standout in its suburban Atlanta neighborhood—is listed for $1,335,000

“It’s in an area that’s full of 1920s bungalows interspersed with new construction, and then you’ve got this castle-looking building on a corner lot that just doesn’t look like anything else,” says listing agent Kathleen Sickeler, with Coldwell Banker Realty. “It’s in an amazing school district and at that price point, we knew we would get offers right away.”

Turret

(Madelyn Livingston)

The current owners bought the place in 2012 for $575,000 and, as Sickeler says, did all of the necessary but “unsexy stuff” to the property—updating the electrical, replacing the plumbing, adding insulation, and other essential upkeep.

And all of their work seems to have helped attract a buyer.

“It was very turnkey—nothing needed to be done,” Sickeler says. “The potential buyer really didn’t have to do anything except just walk into this updated, modernized home that is filled with all the integrity and character of a bygone era.”

Entry

(Madelyn Livingston)

Kitchen

(Madelyn Livingston)

Mural

(Madelyn Livingston)

The castle was built in 1907 and, according to lore, the original owner had an affinity for English castles; so he built one for his family on a piece of property and added a courtyard and many other special touches, Sickeler notes

“His brother is said to have owned a stained-glass factory in California, hence why there’s a lot of stained glass in the property and a lot of original glass windows,” she says, adding that the large stained-glass window in the stairway has mysterious origins. “It was hanging in the home when the sellers purchased it. They made it a permanent fixture and put it in a window. Nobody knows if it came from the brother’s factory. You hear these stories that can’t be validated but seem to have been passed along generation to generation.”

Interior

(Madelyn Livingston)

Bathroom

(Madelyn Livingston)

There are four bedrooms and three bathrooms in the 3,318-square-foot house. The turret connects to one of the bedrooms, creating a a cozy spot.

“It’s just a beautiful, round reading nook, and everywhere you look, you see a beautiful view,” Sickeler says.

The ground floor of the turret is an open patio-seating area.

Another of the home’s unique features is the overhead painting in the kitchen. The design features a nod to the iconic “The Joy of Cooking” cookbook.

“In the skylight, you’ve got this huge hand-painted mural,” Sickeler says. “It was painted in 1992 for the previous owners, and you’ll never find anything like that in another house.”

Garage

(Madelyn Livingston)

Garage bonus room

(Madelyn Livingston)

The home also offers a detached garage with a bonus area that Sickeler calls a great hangout space.

The home’s interiors are surprisingly modern but still seem to fit with the character of a castle.

In fact, the listing agent and sellers had discussions about how to emphasize the light and bright interiors to potential buyers, who might have imagined an old castle would be dark and dusty inside.

Sickeler emphasizes that the house definitely speaks for itself.

“Once you walk in, you’ve got a beautiful amount of light coming through that stained-glass window,” she observes. “It’s such a grand foyer. It just opens up and with high ceilings. It’s just beautiful. You walk in you just feel, ahhh.”

Source: realtor.com

Apache is functioning normally

May 24, 2023 by Brett Tams

Nestled in the heart of Florida’s beautiful Panhandle, Tallahassee offers a captivating blend of Southern charm, vibrant culture, and endless opportunities. This dynamic capital city is more than just a seat of government; it’s a place captivated by enchanting canopy roads, mouthwatering Southern cuisine, and the energy of college football. With its lush green landscapes, rich historical heritage, and thriving arts scene, Tallahassee paints a picture of a city that embraces its residents with open arms. However, living there has its disadvantages, including severe weather, limited public transportation, and a small airport.

So Whether you’re looking for Tallahassee apartments or are searching for homes for sale, this Redfin article is a great resource. It covers ten pros and cons of living in Tallahassee, helping you determine if this city is right for you.

Pros of living in Tallahassee

1. Affordable cost of living

This charming city offers an inviting atmosphere that won’t break the bank. Tallahassee shines as a beacon of affordability, offering a reasonable cost of living, from housing to daily expenses. Imagine a place where your hard-earned dollars stretch further, allowing you to enjoy a comfortable lifestyle; you’ll find that here.

The median sale price in Tallahassee is $250,000, well below the national average of $400,378. You’ll even notice how rent prices are just as affordable. The average rent for a two-bedroom apartment is $1,197, making it an excellent destination for those on a budget. With reasonable housing prices, budget-friendly dining options, and cost-effective entertainment opportunities, Tallahassee invites you to savor life’s pleasures without sacrificing your financial peace of mind.

2. Rich cultural heritage and diverse arts scene

Tallahassee’s historical roots are deeply entwined with Native American, Spanish, and African-American influences, all contributing to a unique cultural blend that’s palpable in its architecture, food, music, and community festivals. Delve into the past as you wander through the historic districts in Tallahassee, such as Frenchtown and Smokey Hollow. There, you’ll notice heritage resonating through art, music, and storytelling. After, immerse yourself in the captivating world of the arts at the vibrant Railroad Square Art Park, where galleries, studios, and creative spaces showcase diverse artistic expressions.

3. Abundance of natural beauty and outdoor recreational opportunities

Tallahassee, a true haven for nature enthusiasts, awaits your arrival with its awe-inspiring natural beauty and thrilling outdoor adventures. Prepare to be enchanted by the city’s picturesque landscapes, where sprawling oak trees create beautiful canopies along scenic roads. Explore the wonders of Maclay Gardens State Park, where vibrant flowers and tranquil lakes beckon you to take strolls or embark on invigorating hikes. And imagine the thrill of kayaking down the pristine waters of Wakulla Springs, encountering graceful manatees and abundant bird species along the way. Tallahassee has something to love, whether you seek serenity in a peaceful park, the thrill of an adrenaline-pumping adventure, or simply the opportunity to connect with nature’s beauty.

4. Plenty of sunshine throughout the year

The Sunshine State’s hidden gem, Tallahassee, basks in the warm embrace of abundant sunshine throughout the year. With its enviable climate, this city radiates a cheerful and uplifting energy that invigorates residents and visitors. Imagine waking up to sunny skies and golden rays, a daily dose of natural positivity that fills your soul. Whether you’re strolling through the picturesque parks, basking in the glow of a vibrant sunset, or engaging in outdoor activities, Tallahassee’s year-round sunshine offers endless opportunities to soak up its invigorating warmth.

5. Numerous festivals, events, and entertainment options

Prepare to be swept away by a whirlwind of cultural celebrations that unite the community and ignite the spirit of joy in Tallahassee. Join in the revelry of the Tallahassee Downtown Market, where local artisans showcase their talents and offer a treasure trove of unique crafts and delicious treats. You’ll also find the lively Tallahassee Food Truck Festival, a culinary extravaganza where tantalizing aromas and delectable flavors take center stage. For sports enthusiasts, the Tallahassee Marathon and Springtime Tallahassee Parade offer opportunities to cheer on athletes and revel in the city’s vibrant spirit. No matter the time of year, Tallahassee’s calendar is brimming with festivals, events, and entertainment options.

Cons of living in Tallahassee

1. Limited public transportation options

The city’s public transit system primarily relies on buses, with a network that may not be as extensive as in larger metropolitan areas. The transit score for Tallahassee is 30 which falls into the car-dependent range, and while efforts have been made to improve transportation accessibility, it’s important to note that the system may have limitations in terms of coverage and frequency. This means that owning a car or relying on alternative modes of transportation becomes necessary for many residents to navigate the city efficiently.

2. Occasional impact from hurricanes and tropical storms

Given that Tallahassee is located in the central region of Florida, it occasionally experiences the impact of hurricanes and tropical storms. While the city is well-prepared to handle such weather events, it’s essential to be aware of the potential risks and take necessary precautions. Tallahassee’s location may occasionally face strong winds, heavy rainfall, and temporary disruptions to daily life.

3. Hot and humid summers

During the summer, residents and visitors can expect the temperatures to exceed 90 degrees Fahrenheit. As temperatures rise and humidity levels soar, the summer heat can become intense and uncomfortable. The high levels of humidity can make outdoor activities challenging and can lead to feelings of fatigue and discomfort. Staying hydrated and seeking shade become essential during this time. Additionally, the hot and humid weather may limit particular outdoor pursuits and make it less enjoyable to spend time outdoors.

4. The small airport can be limiting

Tallahassee’s airport facility, while serving the city and its surrounding areas, is relatively small compared to major international airports. This can be seen as a con to living in Tallahassee, particularly for those who frequently travel long distances or require a wide range of flight options. The smaller airport size may result in limited direct flights and fewer airlines operating in the area, leading to higher airfare costs and potential inconveniences when planning trips. Additionally, connecting flights may be necessary for reaching certain destinations, which can add travel time and possible complications.

5. High annual precipitation

Tallahassee experiences relatively high annual precipitation, which can be seen as a con for some individuals considering living in the area. In fact, Tallahassee is ranked position 9 of the rainiest cities based on the average annual precipitation total. The city receives ample rainfall throughout the year, contributing to the lush greenery and vibrant landscapes that characterize the region. However, the higher precipitation levels may present challenges such as increased humidity, occasional flooding in low-lying areas, and the need for adequate drainage systems. Additionally, heavy rainfall can impact outdoor activities and limit the availability of certain recreational opportunities. Though rain enhances the city’s natural beauty and adds to its splendor, it’s crucial to anticipate the potential inconveniences caused by higher annual precipitation.

Is Tallahassee a good place to live? Final thoughts

When deciding whether or not to make Tallahassee your home, it is crucial to approach it with thoughtfulness. Consider your preferences and priorities, while recognizing the benefits and occasional obstacles that come with embracing this remarkable city.

Source: redfin.com

Apache is functioning normally

May 24, 2023 by Brett Tams

The home appraisal is an integral part of the home selling process. It helps to determine the “market value” of a property so buyers neither overpay for a house nor get it for a “steal.” The appraisal breaks down into three parts, though this can vary by state:

● Inspection
● Comparables (how other homes in the neighborhood are valued)
● Final report

As you prepare for a profssional home appraisal, here’s what you can do to ensure you get the best possible report and value for your home.

Keep Up Appearances

Ensure the following when an appraiser comes to assign a market value to your home:
● A healthy and hospitable appearance
● Proper drainage away from the foundation and/or basement
● Egress windows in all bedrooms for fire safety
● For homes built before 1978, no lead-based paint concerns
● Handrails on all stairs and steps
● A properly functioning heating system that provides ample comfort
● A roof in good condition

Though home appraisers won’t put a “black mark” in their books for the messiness of your home, it does help to have it organized. They’ll be able to see some of the high selling points if they’re not covered under clutter.

Provide Necessary Paperwork

Appraisers absolutely must have all of the paperwork available about your property before they arrive. If they don’t get this information from your lender or broker beforehand, then you should have it in a folder, ready to hand over. This information includes:
● Major improvements
● Age and condition of the roof, HVAC system and major appliances
● Permits for any DIY projects

The more information they have on-hand about your house, the better they can value it.

List Only Essentials

Never list extra square footage in your overview to the appraiser. While you may think your basement or attic counts as square footage, this isn’t always the case. If you’re unsure, it’s best to hire a home inspector or REALTOR® to advise you on acceptable square footage. You should also take care to provide accurate square footage for individual rooms. While you might be tempted to add a few extra square feet here and there, your appraiser has no problem looking up the actual numbers — and it could hurt you in the end.

Conclusion

Home appraisals aren’t just for sellers; they’re for homebuyers and refinancers too. In the case of a buyer, a buyer’s lender will generally have a different appraiser look through the home and perform an independent assessment. If the buyer’s assessment doesn’t match up against the seller’s, discrepancies may be addressed as needed. It also helps to see where potential problems may lie before listing your home, in case you need to make repairs.

Source: century21.com

Apache is functioning normally

May 24, 2023 by Brett Tams

As landlords struggle to get people back into office buildings that emptied during the pandemic, some are turning to entertainment and other enticements such as yoga classes to woo wary workers.

At the Water Garden office complex in Santa Monica, a dance troupe has taken up residence and puts on free performances and classes for kids. Flower arranging classes are packed and the weekly tenants-only comedy show after work is a hot ticket. Musical performances by local artists are a lunchtime draw.

Farmers markets, concerts, art shows and other attractions for office tenants aren’t completely new, but they have taken on urgency as landlords and executives of companies occupying their buildings strive to get workers enthused about showing up. Some property owners are hiring “tenant experience managers.”

In most commercial buildings, only about half the workers show up at their offices on weekdays, key-card swipes reveal. Office leasing is also weak: Space rentals declined again last quarter to bring the overall total of unleased space in Los Angeles County to nearly 20%, well above the 12% rate before the pandemic.

To get workers in the office, “you need to find new ways to engage people,” said Bess Wyrick, head of programming at the Water Garden for property manager CBRE.

Stefany Silva, left, Kimberly Fuentes, Jennifer Sandoval and Nicolette Battad learn how to make floral arrangements at the Water Garden office complex in Santa Monica on Dec. 8.

(Genaro Molina / Los Angeles Times)

With daily office attendance not mandatory at many companies, “It’s no longer about trying to create a work-lifestyle balance,” she said. “It’s about creating a hybrid workplace where people are excited to come.”

Hybrid work patterns have spread widely since the pandemic shutdown of 2020. As companies bring workers back together, many have reduced the number of days their employees are required to be in the office, creating flexible combinations of office days and remote work days.

Cosmetic company L’Oréal Group demands that employees work in the office at least three times a week, on days of their choosing. L’Oréal sweetens the office experience with such comforts as a fitness center, restaurant, juice cafe and a cabana-like bar that serves coffee drinks and, depending on the occasion, alcohol.

Disney Chief Executive Bob Iger recently announced that employees working from home must return to the office Monday through Thursday starting March 1. Fridays are typically the least populated days for offices, research shows, and while most employees toil at home that day, a few companies are taking them off the business calendar altogether and working 32 hours a week.

Guy Blanco of Dirty Latte Co. prepares coffee for workers at the Water Garden complex in Santa Monica last month.

(Genaro Molina / Los Angeles Times)

Landlords are also keen to make offices appealing so tenants will keep renting space in their buildings.

The campus-like Water Garden was a dreary place after being devoid of occupants during the worst of the pandemic, Wyrick said. While they were gone, nearby businesses and restaurants nearby failed or left for other reasons.

“The area was a ghost town,” she said.

Wyrick’s first move was to arrange live performances by local musicians and dancers in the courtyard. Among the complex’s biggest tenants are retailer Amazon and technology firm Oracle.

One of Wyrick’s goals was to make the Water Garden a place people wanted to visit, including neighbors who could walk over to take in a mid-day concert or see pieces by local artists displayed and for sale in the lobbies of the four office buildings. Getting a buzz of life into the campus could help address a common chicken-and-egg complaint about going back to the office — people don’t want to go there if other people aren’t around.

Paying performers to appear, serving free food to tenants at holiday soirees and other planned events are part of a marketing strategy to get the property occupied, she said.

“We will lose money in the beginning,” she said, “but it drives people to put roots in the space.”

The key measure of success is leasing, and Water Garden has added tenants over the past 12 months. Its 1.4 million square feet of rental space is 86% leased, up from 72% leased a year ago, Wyrick said.

Harpist Pheobe Madison Schrafft plays for workers on a lunch break at the Water Garden office complex in Santa Monica.

(Genaro Molina / Los Angeles Times)

One of her leaps to enliven the place was to agree to an unusually short lease with a well-known dance company for an expansive first-floor space last occupied by a furniture showroom. In exchange, Jacob Jonas The Company agreed to engage with other tenants through free classes, performances and other events.

The nonprofit dance company has performed at Lincoln Center, the Kennedy Center and the Hollywood Bowl, as well as with such musical artists as Rosalia, Sia, Elton John and Britney Spears.

For years, the company was based in the Wallace Annenberg Center for the Performing Arts in Beverly Hills. The chance to dance in a working office complex built to the buttoned-down tastes of 1990s business executives holds special appeal to company founder Jacob Jonas, a Santa Monica native who got his start as a street performer on the Venice boardwalk at age 13.

“Our neighbors are some of the leading corporations in our country. There’s something really validating about that and sharing our work,” he said. “When you have people working behind a desk from 9 to 5 and then being able to expose them to creativity and expose them to art in such a unique setting, that crossover is rather beautiful.”

Workers and visitors at the Water Garden can take workshops in floral design, see weekly comedy shows and attend movie nights.

Garryl Bohanon gets some work done near a Hanukkah display in the courtyard of the Water Garden office complex in Santa Monica on Dec. 8.

(Genaro Molina / Los Angeles Times)

Nearly a fifth of the L.A. County’s office space was unleased at the end of last year, according to CBRE, and more empty space may hit the market soon as tenants hoping to save money try to sublease unwanted space due to concerns of a constricting economy and potential layoffs. Some are reducing their space because their employees are working remotely.

“The general consensus among most economists is we’re heading into a recession,” said Bradford Ortlund, a research manager at CBRE. Many companies are declining to expand their offices or reducing space as they wait for the economic picture to come into focus.

The nature of upmarket offices was already shifting before the pandemic as many landlords toned down the dramatic formality of their entrances originally intended to confer status and trustworthiness on the companies inside. As aloofness fell out of favor, owners set out to make their lobbies and courtyards places to linger and enjoy rather than simply pass through in awe.

Their desire to get people working remotely back into offices makes hotel-like hospitality freshly valuable, said the owners of U.S. Bank Tower, the tallest office building in Los Angeles at 72 stories.

It was built to be an imposing corporate cathedral in 1989, but landlord Silverstein Properties is close to completing a $60-million makeover intended to make it feel more like a laid-back hotel where tenants and visitors are invited to kick back. The lobby will include a cocktail and juice bar, a coffee bar, a grab-and-go market of packaged foods, communal tables, a large lounge with plush seating and cabanas to add a resort flair.

Staff will focus on hospitality, said tenant experience manager Melanie Navas. People’s names and birthdays are to be remembered. The 54th floor is a tenants-only lounge with a coffee bar and weekly breakfast spreads to help inspire a sense of community. There are yoga classes at the gym on the 57th floor with views of the city.

“The goal is to get people to feel like they want to come back to work and come back to the building,” she and, “and having them leave happy.”

Art is a top priority for Brookfield Properties, the largest owner of office space in downtown Los Angeles, which has a longstanding program of engagement with tenants. Permanent and rotating art displays are pleasant — and good for occupancy, said Bert Dezzutti, head of the western region for Brookfield.

Workers are framed by a holiday lobby display inside the Water Garden office complex in Santa Monica.

(Genaro Molina / Los Angeles Times)

“Younger workers are more likely to return to the office if they are around art,” he said, citing a survey Brookfield commissioned in the United Kingdom last year that also found that art and cultural activities improve people’s sense of wellbeing and makes them more productive at the office.

“One positive that has emerged from the tragedy of the COVID-19 pandemic is a new focus on what makes a ‘happy’ workplace,” the survey report said. Findings suggest that workers want to work in spaces enriched by art, culture and wellness, which they believe promote creativity and contentment.

“The offices of the future must be more than machines for working in,” the report said, “they must cater to the rich inner life that we all possess.”

One youth-friendly program Brookfield puts on in L.A. is an annual music festival that follows the Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival. Acts from the popular desert concert series appear after work on four August nights at a Brookfield office and retail complex near Crypto.com Arena.

Musicians from the Colburn School perform acoustic sets at another Brookfield property. There are DJ concerts open to all and wellness events for tenants that include skin care classes and meditative sound baths.

“We’re creating opportunities for people to interact,” Dezzutti said. “It’s all about engagement.”

Source: latimes.com

Apache is functioning normally

May 24, 2023 by Brett Tams

2022 seems to be a busy year for 34-year-old rapper Cameron Thomaz, better known by his stage name, Wiz Khalifa.

The rapper recently released two singles from his upcoming album Multiverse, set to drop later this summer, and is preparing to join Logic on a U.S. tour from July to September.

All the hard work is paying off for Khalifa, and he’s making the move to a bigger, even more glamorous home than the one he’s occupied for the past three years.

The rapper has listed his modern mansion in Encino with Alan Tayor of Compass & and Brian Capossela with Cap Equity for $4,495,000.