Last month, the City of Los Angeles signed off on a proposal to redevelop a triplex in Hollywood with a mixed-income apartment building.

The property, located at 1920 Whitley Avenue, was originally developed in 1922.  The proposed development from Los Angeles-based B.D.O.G. Inc. calls for razing that structure to construct a five-story, 24-unit apartment building seated atop two levels of basement parking.  Plans call for a mix of studio, one-, and two-bedroom dwellings, as well as parking for 28 vehicles and open spaces in the form of a rear yard and a rooftop deck.

Warren Techentin Architecture is designing the building, which is portrayed with a contemporary look and an exterior of stucco and glass.

The project, which was approved in August, was appealed to the City Planning Commission by neighbors who decried the fact that it would replace three rent-stabilized apartments.  B.D.O.G. would replace the three units with the same number of deed-restricted extremely-low-income apartments, though questions were raised as to whether or not the project should be required to provide five affordable units or be subject to the rent stabilization ordinance.

Other neighboring residents spoke out against the demolition of the nearly century-old building in favor of a larger development.  However, staff noted that the property has not been designated as a Los Angeles Historic-Cultural Monument - which could delay or possibly prevent its demolition - nor has it been identified as a possible historic resource through Survey L.A.

The Commission voted to deny the appeal and move the project forward.