A new affordable housing development is on the boards for 1275 Sunset Boulevard in Echo Park, Los Angeles. The project site sits near the intersection of Sunset Boulevard and Portia Street and currently contains a single-story commercial building. A proposal submitted to the Los Angeles Department of City Planning in July 2025 outlines plans to replace the existing structure with a multi-story residential complex.
Visionary Development is the project developer. Kevin Tsai Architecture and JZA Architecture have teamed up to work on the designs.
1275 Sunset Boulevard Facade via JZA Architecture
The project calls for the construction of a five- to eight-story building that would contain 162 residential units. All apartments are slated to be affordable, with allocations for low-income and moderate-income households, along with one market-rate manager’s unit. The apartments would be designed as a mix of studio and one-bedroom layouts.
No commercial or retail space is proposed, and the plan notably excludes any on-site parking—a decision made possible through incentives granted under California’s Affordable Housing Density Bonus Law and the City’s Transit Oriented Communities (TOC) program.
1275 Sunset Boulevard View via JZA Architecture
The contemporary design features a composition of angular volumes clad in alternating black and white metal paneling. Renderings reveal a tiered massing strategy: a lighter-colored five-story volume fronts Sunset Boulevard, while the rear rises up to eight stories. The building emphasizes verticality with tall windows and recessed balconies, and includes rooftop terrace areas with integrated landscaping. There are no vehicle entrances along the street, enhancing pedestrian engagement.
Planning documents confirm the development is requesting multiple zoning incentives, including a 217% density bonus, complete parking waivers, and reductions in required yards and open space. The project qualifies for streamlined approval under AB 1763 and TOC Tier 3 regulations due to its proximity to transit and 100% affordability.
If approved, 1275 Sunset Boulevard will mark a significant addition to Echo Park’s affordable housing stock. A construction start date has not yet been announced.
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Taking the barn style seen throughout the Midwest, on single family homes, to a whole new level.
Looks great. But. Please don’t use the metal paneling. It looks so cheap. Like a sharecroppers tin shed
How can I apply for any of the properties