Project Data:

Completion Date:     3/1/2022

Square Footage:      181070

Building Use:           Mixed-Use Residential

Design Architect:      WHA | Architects. Planners. Designers

Project Description:

This mixed-use project is currently under construction in the heart of Azusa’s Downtown District, located at the intersection of Azusa Avenue and Foothill Boulevard, also known as the iconic Route 66. The unique urban destination will include 163 new residential units and 31,716 S.F. of retail space.

The design celebrates Azusa’s strong historical roots with a fresh approach, attracting retailers, theatergoers, residents, and other target audiences. The look and feel of this historic Main Street development is a blend of historical, modern, and industrial design captured in elements taken from the surrounding context. Local elements like the “Bridge to Nowhere” and the Azusa Theater inspired the theme. Designed to naturally grow and adapt to new uses over time, these buildings keep the classic character while allowing for modern additions that allow constant reinvention and connection between people and the community.

A new town center activates the area with something appealing and memorable. At the front plaza, an art piece designed by a local sculptor features a boulder found on the site along with an arch above it that symbolizes the citrus groves that once grew there. The historic charm, retail, and entertainment create a new sense of place for the downtown corridor and draw residents back to the area. In addition, several nearby colleges and students will benefit from the retail and residential opportunities from this new development.

As a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, the 8,350 SF Laemmle Theater has adapted its original use from a movie theater into a flexible office space. In addition to shops and restaurants, this mixed-use development provides exclusive amenities for residents. An expansive rooftop yoga deck provides captivating views of the mountains and offers an outdoor fireplace and entertainment space. Another rooftop deck farther down Azusa Avenue presents a dog park and outdoor dog bath for residents and their furry friends to enjoy. In the middle of the residential sector on the podium level, a pool deck courtyard provides a large pool with lounge chairs and a nearby community room with a kitchen. Overall, this multifaceted residential and commercial project reignites the life of this downtown area with new and contemporary design for the present.