More than half a year after clearing away a former bookstore in the Sawtelle community, Nayssan Properties is now excavating the basement parking levels for a new apartment complex.

The property, located at 1650 Sawtelle Boulevard, is slated for the construction of a five-story edifice featuring 48 studio, one-, and two-bedroom apartments - of which four would be reserved as affordable housing.  Plans also call for open space amenities such as a rooftop deck.

City records indicate the project is designed by architect Sam Ghanouni, and will include exterior finishes such as cement plaster and zinc panels.

A project website indicates that the apartments will offer stainless steel appliances and in-unit washer-dryer sets.

A completion date has not been announced.

Nayssan is also behind plans to construct a 96-unit development at a long-vacant lot at the corner of Santa Monica and Beverly Glen Boulevards.