Developer Rick Caruso may not be ready to move forward with his proposed mixed-use tower at 333 La Cienega Boulevard quite yet, but initial steps are now being taken to clear the way for construction.

Real estate agent Blake Alexander sends word that the H.D. Buttercup furniture store that currently occupies the property is now winding down operations, signaled by a new display that signifies a "$2 Million Store Closing Demolition Sale."

Caruso, best known as the developer of the Grove, intends to raze the former department store building at 333 La Cienega to allow for the construction of a 16-story, 185-foot tall building that would feature 145 residential units above 31,000 square feet of ground-floor commercial space and a parking garage.

The project was downsized earlier this year through an agreement coordinated by 5th District Councilmember Paul Koretz, who represents Beverly Grove.  Caruso had originally proposed a 20-story tower that would have risen to a peak height of 240 feet above ground.

A project website still advertises an expected completion date in 2020.