The Westside Family YMCA, a longtime landmark for the Sawtelle Japantown neighborhood, has decamped for a new facility adjacent to University High School.  Now, demolition is underway at its former home, as local developer California Landmark Group proceeds with site preparation for a mixed-use complex on the property.

The property, located at 1947 Sawtelle Boulevard, will yield a five-story structure featuring 76 residential units above 7,700 square feet of ground-floor commercial space.  Renderings show a more traditional apartment building along the east side of the property, which pares down to a two-story profile as it moves toward adjacent single-family homes.

Designs by Rios Clementi Hale Studios were were generated with thought to traditional Japanese themes and contemporary apartment buildings in Tokyo.  Cherry blossoms are incorporated throughout the property, and a corner plaza is planned along Sawtelle Boulevard.

CLG has developed a number of multifamily buildings throughout the Westside, with ongoing projects in Palms and Del Rey.

Demolition was first spotted by Rina Yano of the Sawtelle Japantown blog.