Issue link: https://digital.copcomm.com/i/13146
L astpage Living The Dream W former department store, and two office buildings converted to residential spaces, but until recently, new construction design has left a lot to be desired. Why are we building structures that seem to lack inspiration at best ith Hollywood’s renaissance well underway, the building boom of the past several years, although slowing, includes lots of rooms; condos, apartments, hotels, clubs and restaurants. We’ve seen a traditionalist than a visionary, recognizes that fantasy and “living the dream” is what Hollywood is all about. The result is a melding of the new and the old that fits comfortably into the neighborhood of other historic residential properties, the Villa Carlotta and Chateau Elysee (now the Church of Scientology’s Celebrity Center). “...it’s exactly what you want to experience - it’s what you came to Hollywood for.” and look as inviting as penitentiaries? One notable exception is the new LaBelle at Hollywood Tower. Sited immediately east of the historic Hol- lywood Tower, the French Normandy style 1929 landmark, once a fa- vorite residence for the entertainment industry during our “Golden Age,” the new addition is a joy to behold. Developer Drew Colquitt of Arizona-based Alliance Residential, more a Hollywood Tower Discover Hollywood Special Editorial La Belle at Hollywood Tower, main entrance Here is the real triumph. The addition of La Belle seamlessly compliments the Tower’s classic heritage. With its nouveau French influence, the glass portico entrance leads to more fantasy inside. At long last, a builder has provided what’s missing in our community - a profound respect for our heritage and, more importantly, recognizing that capitalizing on Hollywood’s past can translate into a bright and profitable future. - Nyla Arslanian agenda was the restoration of the original Hol- lywood Tower to update the apartments to 21st Century standards without sacrificing any sense of history but instead choosing to respect and amplify original details. If its elegant lobby catches you in a time warp, it’s exactly what you want to experience - it’s what you came to Hollywood for. More of a challenge was the new structure immediately to the east. First on the The traditional old Tower lobby (above) contrasts with La Belle’s dream-like new lobby, at right. Hollywood Tower and the new La Belle at 6138 Franklin Avenue blends the old and the new. Interiors evoke the glamour of Old Hollywood. 62 DISCOVER HOLLYWOOD / SUMMER 2010