The aptly named Views Apartments at 723 South St. Andrews Place in Los Angeles’ Koreatown neighborhood offers market-rate rentals, most of which enjoy views of either downtown or toward the picturesque beach city of Santa Monica.  Designed by Los Angeles-based Andmore Partners, the new six-story structure incorporates subterranean parking and a roof deck.  Targeting a younger demographic in the Koreatown neighborhood, which is a walkable, centrally located area of Los Angeles with easy access to downtown, Views features a dynamic façade that plays with massing, depth, and color for attractive curb appeal.

To help thin down the visual mass of the wide building, Andmore Partners conceived a black “frame” for the main volume that angles slightly—approximately two-and-a-half feet across the width—toward a white mass at the north corner.  This slight tilting effect allows the white rectangular metal-mesh balconies to pop out and project shadows, creating depth.  Beyond the balconies, a gradient of yellow-painted vertical surfaces further enlivens the building’s façade, making a bold statement, and keeping with Andmore Partners’ signature use of vivid color on multifamily dwellings.

Common space is a particularly important aspect of the project, allowing tenants in the mostly studio and one-bedroom units different public areas they can enjoy with friends and neighbors.  A second-floor communal space features a combination kitchen and entertainment area with large folding doors that open to a balcony.  A roof deck is also accessible to all residents, where they can gather together and enjoy views of downtown and the Hollywood sign.  Next door, a small gym is available for residents’ use. 

To ensure access to light and views, the architects placed floor-to-ceiling windows at both ends of double-loaded corridors.  Corridors bring the black and yellow exterior color scheme inside and feature wall-mounted, super-sized floor numerals to orient visitors.  The apartments themselves have simple, open layouts with wood floors and sleek, space-saving kitchenettes with stainless-steel appliances, wood cabinetry, and gray glazed-tile backsplashes.  High-end amenities include in-unit washer/dryers, central AC/heating, and balconies with scenic views.

Thoughtfully placed exterior lighting further activates the façade at night.  Spotlights are mounted beneath the top of the black frame and under each projecting balcony.  Uplighting along the ground contributes to a safe pedestrian environment.