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BEN LEE’S BLOG
Westside Stories – September
The Los Angeles County Central Court House is located at 111 N Hill St and 110 N Grand in Downtown Los Angeles just across the Street from Disney Hall the architectural landmark by Frank Gehry. Foreign visitors can not get enough photos of the Gehry undulating metal panels and pose with it to remember their trip to this City. But they should take a moment as well to consider the imposing building dispensing justice across the way. The Courthouse has nine floors, but two entrances. On the Hill Street side it tops out at six floors because it follows the grade of First St as it climbs from Hill to Grand. The building was designed principally by the well-known architect Paul Williams who was responsible for many buildings and residences throughout Los Angeles and Beverly Hills from the 1920s to the 1960s. He worked in an era when African American professionals faced many hurdles which he overcame because of his obvious talent. The court house was completed in 1959. It was lavishly appointed with terrazzo floors and interior marble as wall clad throughout the halls and passageways. No expense was spared in the construction and fit and finish because the trade unions, a powerful force when public buildings were involved, insisted that no expense be spared. Alas, over half century later it appears there may be asbestos in the insulation, and the earthquake protections and other features are not up to present building code requirements. There has been talk of removing the court house to make more room for the planned development of shops and residences across from Disney Hall where the “erector set” parking structure is now located. There may not have been many movies shot in the building but of course many a drama plays out there every day open for the public to see in each court room. Just watching the proceedings involving Sumner Redstone the Chairman of Paramount Pictures, or Frank McCourt battling to preserve from his wife the billions from his sale of the Dodgers would make the visit both entertaining and fodder for a screenplay.
By Michael Harris
Fantastic Carthay Square Duplex Offers Space and Immediate Income Opportunity
How would you like to live in a beautiful and historic Mediterranean-style duplex with more than 3,500 square feet of interior living space and start receiving rental income from it right away?
That’s what this 1930’s property – which is located in the heart of Carthay Square’s historic district – can offer. Each of the spaces in this duplex has three bedrooms and two baths, as well as formal entrances, fireplaces, and balconies that are directly accessed via the master bedroom suites.
Surrounded by mature trees and other greenery, the two units here are tied together via a courtyard that includes a fountain and Saltillo tiling. There are also two double garages, so the residents of each unit can enjoy enclosed, secure parking.
Just a few of the updates include tankless water heaters, HVAC, soundproofing, plumbing, electrical, and new appliances. The home has also received some recent foundation work. With the lower unit already occupied by a tenant, the new owner can count on immediate incoming cash flow.
This beautiful Carthay Square duplex is located at 1212 South Hayworth, and it is currently on the market for $1.949 million. Private tours can be arranged for interested purchasers.
Spacious Long Beach Ranch Home Available for Under $1M
There is loads of space in this updated 3-bedroom, mid century modern ranch home that was designed by Cliff May in the mid-1950s. Just some of what you will find here in this 1,383 square foot abode includes white concrete floors, beamed ceilings, custom kitchen cabinets, large windows, quartz countertops, and terrazzo tile.
Designed for comfortable living and entertainment, you will also find a pool and spa in the back yard, along with a patio that is shaded by guava trees. In addition, there is a sizeable bar-b-que area to complete the package.
The two-car garage has been redesigned and would make a great private office or studio space. The long list of additional updates includes high-end fixtures in the bathrooms, an expanded master bedroom closet, and terrazzo walls in the guest bath. There has also been a complete update of the home’s hardscape and landscape, which now provides the perfect backdrop for this one-of-a-kind residence.
Located at 3065 Stevely Avenue in Long Beach – and just a stone’s throw from the fantastic 800-acre El Dorado Park and nature preserve – this home is currently on the market for $998K. Private tours can be set up for interested purchasers.
Cute Glendale Condo with Plenty of Green Space is Ready for You!
If you’re ready for maintenance-free living, this spectacular one-bedroom, one-bath Glendale condo could be just exactly what you’re looking for. With nearly 650 square feet of interior living space, this Colonial style second-floor condo unit, which was built in the 1940s, offers a light and bright atmosphere, with large windows, original hardwood flooring, and vintage bathroom tile.
The complex is situated on approximately two acres and it offers plenty of green space, along with lined with mature shade trees and gardens all around. And, there is an on-site community laundry area for convenience. There are two private staircases that lead only to this particular unit. And, with no common walls on any of the four sides, the home is quiet and peaceful.
Just some of the added amenities you’ll find here include a private garage with an assigned parking space, and a back balcony that is perfect for sipping your morning coffee or taking in some fresh evening air.
Located at 537 Maple Street, this cozy Glendale condo is listed for sale at $349K. (There is also a monthly homeowner’s association fee of $275.) Private tours can be arranged for interested purchasers.
Free In & Out… Seriously!
If you’re in the mood for free, delicious hamburgers and fun for the whole family then save the date of October 6. Ben Lee is one of the sponsors for the annual Country Club Estates Block Party! That same weekend is also Castle Heights’ all school camp out so if you happen to be driving by the schoolyard and notice a lot of tents pitched on the grass, don’t worry- it’s not a protest! Every year, families spend the night under the stars and it’s gotten more and more popular with every year since its inception back in 2010. And, speaking of Castle Heights- there will be a new family picnic on September 8 at Shechter Park. Bring your own lunch and let the kids play while you get all your pressing questions answered by fellow parents and school administration. One more date in October to consider: on 10/16, my wife is hosting the neighborhood ladies’ wine night. Email her if you would like to come or if you’d like to be added to the list for future get-togethers: lillijlee@yahoo.com.