A live/work change is gonna come
Los Angeles City Council's planning committee has now instructed the city attorney to draft a change in the definition of what constitutes ‘live/work'. The change, which will shift the focus towards the ‘live' side, is designed to bring the ordnance more in line with how the units are actually used, as well as help promote economic activity in a difficult economic climate. Up to now the designation has been two thirds commercial and one third residential, based on the formula for artist in residence units.
When finalized, the change will allow buyers of live/work units to access low interest Federal Housing Administration (FHA) loans, which are insured by federal government and allow a down payment of 3 per cent instead of up to 20 per cent required for private loans.
The original recommendation report stated that the existing definition is ‘obsolete' and inconsistent with both city policy and the realities of real estate development. Some artists, however, have expressed concerns that the change in definition could affect their ability to work.
A winning concept
The winning entry in Washington DC-based developer Jair Lynch's competition do define ‘live/work' (read more here) is an innovative artist's sanctuary combined with studio and storefront gallery.
Staged in a 1,600 sq foot space in the company's Solea development, it includes space for relaxation on the lower level, with a workspace on the upper level that functions as both studio and gallery as well as marketing and promotional headquarters, offering everything necessary to run all aspects of a creative business.
The competition called for entries that embodied a ‘progressive, human-centered approach', and the studio can be used by artists from any discipline. The design also incorporates a deliberately clear delineation of work and living space, with a minimal, relaxing feel to the living area and a colourful, vibrant ambience in the working space.