New apartments could flank the 1920s Crescent Heights Methodist Episcopal Church at intersection of Fairfax and Fountain Avenues, according to a report to the West Hollywood Planning Commission's Design Review Subcommittee.

The project, which would replace a two-story wood-frame building at 1282 N. Fairfax Avenue, calls for the construction of a new five-story building featuring 25 studio and one-bedroom dwellings - including five affordable units - above underground parking for 25 vehicles.

Plus Architects and SQLA are designing the proposed apartment complex, which is depicted as a contemporary low-rise structure clad in stucco and metal.  Private balconies would wrap the exterior of the building, while a large setback facing the western property line would provide a common amenity deck for residents.  Plans also call for a courtyard separating the apartments from the adjoining church, with pedestrian access points off of both Fairfax and Fountain Avenue.

Although a report to the Design Review Subcommittee by architects Ric Abramson and Gwynne Pugh point to areas of potential improvement, the project received overall positive feedback. 

"With finishing touches thoughtfully integrated, this project promises to become a desirable place for living and working," reads the report.

The project applicant - a Los Angeles-based entity called Alpine Equities, LLC - is based out of the same address as local real estate investment firm South Park Group.  The company has planned or completed several multifamily residential developments in recent years, including proposed mixed-use projects at 8000 Beverly Boulevard and 320 La Cienega Boulevard in Beverly Grove.

The proposed development would rise a short walk north from 1250 N. Fairfax Avenue, where local developer Palisades is in the midst of construction on a larger 53-unit apartment complex.