An adaptive reuse strategy was the conversion of an office, manufacturing and warehouse facility to retail and trade school uses on a prime site with freeway visibility. The project is located within the "shoestring" of Los Angeles, connecting the city to the port; however, the adjacent boulevard is a gateway to adjacent and diverse city of Gardena. The pre-leased retail space to national chains follows a previous conversion phase from office to trade school. Located in an otherwise drab environment, "garish" carnival colors were intentionally selected to engage the vehicular passerby. A palette reminiscent of colorful 1960s discount stores is a nostalgic cue from childhood memories. A pad building addition will be featuring a sit down restaurant which is lacking in the community. Infill eateries will be established in the shop space below the second and third floor school which have access under a louvered trellis structure.