DOWNTOWN WEEKLY by Art Hunter

JULY 2ND - JULY 9TH DTLA-WEEKLY.COM VOL 6 NO 1

HEART & HEARTH STONE

DTLA PATRIOTS BRIAN KITE OF SRK ARCHITECTURE/ 10 GREAT PLACES FOR BREATHTAKING VIEWS OF DTLA CARMEN RODRIGUEZ TOLEDO / SAYING GOODBYE TO THE CAVEMAN

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VOLUME 6 NUMBER 01

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GET 2 DOWNTOWN JULY 2ND - JULY 9TH eat.drink.dance.sleep

pg10 SKYSPACE

#DTLA

&GREAT PLACES

WEEKLY

for BREATHTAKING VIEWS OF DTLA

pg 4 music to your ears

SAYING GOODBYE TO THE CAVEMAN pg 3 DTLA PATRIOTS CARMEN RODRIGUEZ TOLEDO PG8 BRIAN KITE OF

SRK ARCHITECTURE 2016 Â© Downtown Weekly LA

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MOVIE BUFF

THE LEGEND OF TARZAN

DOWNTOWN WEEKLY LA EDITORS HUMPHREY BYAWO KERI FREEMAN SPECIAL ASSIGNMENT ASHANNTI HILL SEAN STROH STEPHEN SICILIANO CONNER JONES ARTIST IN RESIDENCE GENIE DAVIS EVELYN CHUA ENTERTAINMENT MATT LOHR ZACH BANDLER RONNIE SIMON EVENTS LILIT MARTIROSYAN GAY DTLA RACHEL LUCKEY MOVIE BUFF FREDERICK MINTCHELL COMICS DILLON FOLEY POLITICS & SATIRE ROBERT CARPENTER SALES/MARKETING MARTIN RIVERA SOCIAL MEDIA ART HUNTER PHOTOGRAPHY HANFU MARIA KRAPIVKO SPECIAL THANKS TO COUNCIL DISTRICT 14 & THE CITY OF LA BLACKSTONE APTS CENTRAL CITY EAST ARTS DISTRICT BID SOUTH PARK BID CHINATOWN LA CIVIC DISTRICT BUNKER HILL HISTORIC CORE FINANCIAL DISTRICT FASHION DISTRICT ART APPETITE LA DOWNTOWN ARTWALK

downtown weekly - downtown los angeles eventS & hospitality

DTLA PATRIOT

dtla patriot: carmen rodriguez toledo by keri freeman

hen Carmen Rodriguez Toledo first ventured

Downtown to cheer with friends 14 years ago, it was mainly for a chance to socialize in hidden places in a Downtown where most others had dared to go. It would be these early Downtown community activities that would eventually become the catalyst for a now $12billion hospitality industry, which has led to Downtown becoming a true tourist destination once again, although at the time Downtown would have never known it.

owntown has changed but the heart of the community still beats thanks to a few remaining Downtown Patriots who dedicate themselves to being apart of the Downtown community, give more than they ask for and FEAR NOTHING. Instead of underground tunnels, private parties, and friendly gatherings where everyone knew everyone today downtown is more about whom you know and Carmen Rodriguez Toledo just happens to know everyone. Many of her old friends who used to hang out before the Downtown resur-

carmen rodriguez toledo and dog prada shopping on olive rection, have today, become well known fixtures that after all these years, made grand Downtown achievements as well. A marketing and business consultant, and overall liaison for anyone looking for adventure or attention inside of Downtownâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s boundaries, Toledo has become a staple on social media and a local television icon producing Destination Downtown Los Angeles, and DTLA Today, posting or reporting on just about anything â&#x20AC;&#x153;Downtownâ&#x20AC;?, on a daily basis.

Toledo is easy to befriend, and always offers words of encouragement and affirmation from a genuine place. Her amazing since of community makes all feel welcome and fortified when she is around. She sees downtown as an eclectic mix of professionals and visionaries and looks out for the less fortunate with a long list of fund raising events, political meetings and networking accomplishments, most of which have led to positive change.

continued on page 18

MUSIC TO YOUR EARS: CAVEMAN VINTAGE MUSIC BY HANFU

MUSIC TO YOUR EARS

hen Eric Stollsteimer opened Caveman Vintage Music Inc. on North Spring Street in Chinatown back in July of 2011, it was all about selling vintage instruments and rock-n-roll novalty items. Five years later, Caveman Vintage is moving to Lincoln Heights in search of more space and a less gentrified city. Luckily, he will be able to take his memories and his Downtown Los Angeles fanbase with him.

Eric Stollsteimer of Caveman Vintage Music Inc photo by hanfu

music to your ears: saying goodbye to the caveman When did you first come to Down- What is your dearest town and what brought you here? possession at the store? We opened our shop in Chinatown on July 11th, 2011. I’ve always loved the area because of it’s proximity to to all the freeways and surrounding neighborhoods that happen to be the home of numerous well known musicians and artists. We saw back in 2011 that Chinatown was sort of a neighborhood that we could grow into at our own pace. It was in no way gentrified at that time, which is something I liked.

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People might find this strange, but some of my dearest possessions, in the shop for me, are my collection of vintage music store advertising items, such as a Fender guitar clock from 1963 and a 1967 Vox Guitar-Amplifier’s light up sign. It has spinning color wheel in it that lights up and spins around giving a sort of psychedelic light show.

how did you get into what you are doing? I started playing guitar in 6th or 7th grade. It’s something that I have never stopped doing and loving. I also have always had a real passion for instruments and music of the 1950’s and 1960’s. In 1996 I opened my first vintage music store location in Ann Arbor, Michigan. After doing that for a number of years on my own, I was offered a position in the vintage department of Guitar Center in Hollywood, so I made the move out to sunny California and have not regretted a single day since. After working for that company for a few years, I started to feel the need to have my own shop again. And so, CaveOur customers range from people picking man Vintage Music was born. up a guitar for the first time, to Grammy award winning musicians, to just folks that are true lovers of music. People come from all over the world to visit our shop and take something special home with We wanted a name that really said primthem. It makes me really proud when we itive and old. Another thing, I always have customers come in from somewhere wanted was a logo that had some kind of mascot and I’m really happy with what we very far away, like say Australia and they came up with. Drop by the new shop and tell me that they have been hearing great check out our beautiful hand painted sign things about Caveman Vintage Music over done in gold leaf by legendary sign painter there. It really blows my mind. I guess we can thank the power of the internet for Ronn Overby. that. We try to make sure we are constantly posting to our Instagram, Facebook, and our website. We sell vintage (pre 1980’s guitars, basses, amps, keyboards, drums, effects pedals, hi-fi stereo gear, and records. We were in serious need of more space and we definitely are getting it with our new location in the Lincoln Heights neighborOur biggest seller (records wise) is still the hood. I did attempt to find something in Beatles. As for musical gear goes, I think Chinatown that could fit our needs, but a lot of the spaces we looked at were either vintage guitars are still our best selling to small, or the landlords were asking unitem in the store. realistic prices.

Who are your customers?

Why did you name the store CAVEMAN?

What do you sell ?

Why are you moving?

What is your biggest seller?

Where are you moving to? Our new location is in the Lincoln Heights neighborhood at 3233 N. Main Street, which is very close to the corner of Main and Mission. Only two miles from our old location in Chinatown.

What is your fondest memory of Downtown? I think the old Clifton’s Cafeteria before it was renovated by the current owner. That place was always such a treat to visit in so many ways.

What will you miss about Downtown? I will definitely miss the amazing selection of great restaurants. Places like the Little Jewel of New Orleans, or the Spring Street Smoke House, just can’t be beat.

HAVE YOUR HEARD? SUGGESTIONS/ COMMENTS... SEND THEM TO EDITOR@DTLA-WEEKLY.COM

get 2 downtown: DTLA EVENT PICKS OF THE WEEK

DTLA-WEEKLY.COM

SATURDAY SUNDAY JULY 2 - 4 JULY 3 ANIME EXPO LA Convention Center The largest anime and manga convention in North America, many of the attendees cosplay while attending the CONVENTION and join in the many gatherings for fans of anime, manga, gaming and other genres. Open LATE-NIGHT, the event also offers dance, video screenings, tabletop and electronic gaming, and open-mic karaoke. Ticketed. All Ages. 8am. 1201 S. Figueroa Street. 90015.

MONDAY JULY 4

TUESDAY JULY 5

ROCK N ROLL FLEA MARKET & SUNDAY FUNDAY BRUNCH The Regent Dozens of vendors PEDDLING everything from vintage vynyl to hair wigs, followed by the best in hangover entertainment BINGO; offering cocktails, fun and a chance to win FABULOUS prizes, like FREE concert tickets to performances at the Regent Theater. 9am. Free. All Ages. 448 S. Main Street. 90013.

BLOCK PARTY Grand Park Grand Park and The Music Center celebrate the 4th with music, food, and an amazingly patriotic fireworks display. Light up the stage at City Hall with friends, the whole family, even pets! With special performances, folk music at the Fireworks Stage, and DJ LA JUNTA’s tropical beats at the Backyard Stage. 200 N Grand Ave, 90012.

$8 BLOCKBUSTER MOVIES@ Regal LA LIVE One heck of a special for movie lovers each week as long as you’re not into watching movies as part of a group, same day releases, spending holidays at the cinema, or 3D or 4DX titles; you can pick just about any movie you want. Tickets are available online at fandango. com and at the Regal L.A. LIVE box office. 1000 W Olympic Blvd, 90015.

1 TO 3 Grand Performances Pushing the envelope when it comes to experimental and ELEVATED chamber jazz, Armenian virtuosos and Grammy Award winners, Arto Tunçboyacıyan (Armenian Navy Band), pianist Vardan Ovsepian, and cellist Artyom Manukyan join the long list of talented performers scheduled for free outdoor concerts at Grand Performances this summer. DANCING strongly encouraged; this BYO picnic-style community get together continues to delight and uplift everyone who attends. For a complete list of showtimes and performances visit the website. Free. All Ages. 350 South Grand Avenue, Suite A-4, 90071.

FIRST SUNDAYS Redline A safe haven for the LGBT... community, as REDLINE’s pioneers continue with this month’s installment of DTLA’s only COMMUNITY Brunch Party. Costumes, Drag and red-white-and-blue attire are highly recommended and encouraged for USA’s BIRTHDAY PARTY filled with food, drinks, dance, and more...Complete with out of the closet openest and no boundries to socialize all day and night with no work the next day. Special brunch soundtracks provided by Joseph Munguia, and Olga Arteaga. 131 E 6th Street, 90014.

4TH OF JULY DODGERS vs. ORIOLES. Dodger Stadium Get your American Flag on with the Dodgers and their awesome hilltop firework presentation. This 4th of July, Dodger Stadium lights up the night as the Dodgers take on the Orioles. Enjoy the PREGAME SUPER DOOPER Large American Flag display held by members of the Armed Forces, followed by the Bald Eagles, and Chinook and Anami from The Los Angeles Zoo. Then stay after the game for the BEST FIREWORKS show in all of Los Angeles, courtesy of Hawaiian Springs Water! Ticketed. All Ages. 6:10pm. 1000 Elysian Park Ave, 90012.

LIQUID INTELLEGANCE J.W. Marriott Overflowing with luxury resources, WEDNESDAYS are made for drinkers as gLANCE Lobby Bar at the JW, offers yet another chance for DTLA Patriots to get totally faded. Experts guide you through a signature tasting and hands on experience allowing you to SIP AND SAVOR regional wines at gLAnce Lobby Bar during the 2nd Wednesday of the month. Local craft breweries enhance the gLAnce on 3rd Wednesdays. Afterwards, relax in style in any of their SPACIOUS hotel rooms or enjoy the tranquility of their luxurious hotel spas. Free. 21+ RSVP required. 900 W Olympic Blvd, 90015.

get 2 downtown: DTLA EVENT PICKS OF THE WEEK

SATURDAY SNEAK PEAK OF THE WEEK

FRIDAY THURSDAY WEDNESDAY JULY 8 - 10 JULY 7 JULY 6 & 8 FARMER’S MARKET LUNCHTIME CONCERTS Pershing Square Wednesday and Friday concerts at lunchtime during the Pershing Square Farmers’ Market and Food Truck Friday are absolutely the best choice for variety and entertainment in less than an hour for Downtown workers, residents and tourists. Tables, chairs and umbrellas are available along with Zydeco, Jazz, Rock and Country music. 532 S Olive Street, 90013.

DISGRACED Conversations with leading experts, activists, and scholars from Los Angeles’ Muslim community discuss important issues facing us today, including cultural appropriation, images of Muslims in the media, Islamophobia, and the intersection of religion and culture. It’s a welcomed opportunity to bring voices and perspectives together and intellectual meeting paradise. 135 N Grand Ave, 90012.

LA FOOD FEST Exposition Park Are you ready to eat? Choose your own adventure with food, drinks and more for purchase from 100+ food, beverage, beer, wine and craft cocktail vendors each day. To top it off, LA’s biggest tasting event is expanded by a three-day teamed up with Nederlander Concerts–for three nights and two full days of culture and culanary fantasia. 700 Exposition Park Dr, 90037.

LIVE JAZZ Le Petite Paris Every Wednesday evening at Le Petit Paris Restaurant you can enjoy a new jazz band with local and international performers while having French inspired food and signature cocktails. Le Petite Paris is a successful new restaurant brought to you by the brilliant minds of Fanny and David Rolland, creators of Le Petite Paris in Cannes. They bring the unforgettable experience of a true French brasserie with delightfully artistic dishes from the South of France to DTLA’s Historic Core. Free. RSVP may be required. All Ages. 7.30pm to 9.30pm. 418 South Spring Street, 90013.

OUTFEST Orpheum Theater Every year, Outfest Film Festival pushes us to explore and discover the fight against powerful forces that lust to separate the GAY community from the rest of the world. Enjoy films, panels, receptions and afterparties, during this year’s 34th anniversary, breeding understanding by exposing a larger audience to LGBT... narratives. Thursday night’s opening gala will feature the relationship comedy, The INTERVENTION. Followed by days of dramatic cinema, love, trust and rainbows. Ticketed. 842 S Broadway, 90014.

WHITE LUNG Telegram BallRoom What do Pitchfork, Rolling Stone and Interview all have in common? Complete and utter rave reviews for WHITE LUNG, a three piece popish band made up of lead vocalist Mish Barber-Way, guitarist Kenneth William and drummer Anne-Marie Vassiliou. Reconnected, their list of apathetically curated songs offer a new pop sensibility, fine tuned by near constant touring, all of which have them ready to unlease their version of seemingly never bothered rytyhms to thousands of fans. 1234 W 7th Street. 90017.

SATURDAY JULY 9

2016 LA CAN FREEDOM NOW AWARDS African American History Museum Celebrating an all-star cast of honorees including Jan Breidenbach, Dan Stormer, Milton Grimes, Ralph Fertig, Suzy Marks and Tamu Jones, LA CAN helps people dealing with poverty in the Skid Row Community by creating and discovering opportunities that ensure results benefit the community first. 600 State Drive, 90037. SALSAFEST Live Nation (July 9 & 10) Que Pica!!! Hold on to your tomatillos and pick your pack of pickled peppers...The Salsa Festival will have you so spiced up with a fun and culture as you can sample. Tasty salsas from local food vendors and live entertainment, including dancing, Beer & Margarita Bar and an interactive Kids Zone brought to you by City of Los Angeles Department of Recreation and Parks. Salsa Festival is a free community event, requiring all vendors in the Salsa Tasting Tent to supply a minimum of at least 500 samples for event attendees... Hope they also provide the chips !!! Free. All Ages. 10am 6pm. 532 S Olive Street. 90013

DTLA PATRIOT

DTLA PATRIOT BY ASHANNTI HILL

DTLA-WEEKLY.COM

BRIAN KITE

anaging Principal Brian Kite of SRK Architecture is a fourth generation Angeleno whose father was also an architect and whose great-grandparents ventured to Los Angeles in 1888. Kite truly identifies with the historical origins of the city and his current project, partial renovation of the Los Angeles Athletic Club, is one he calls a labor of love.

srk architect brian kite photo by maria Krapivko

dtla-weekly.com

dtla patriot: BRIAN KITE

ust within the Figueroa Corridor of Downtown Los Angeles (DTLA) off W. 22nd Street lies the cozy, slightly industrial office space of SRK Architects. On first glance, the loft-like structure housing architects and interior designers on one floor and engineers on the next, appears and feels almost sleepy with a bubbling undercurrent of quiet energy from the small staff. The firm’s sunny conference room gives visitors a glimpse into the many amazing projects SRK’s team has completed and/or is embarking upon, and Managing Principal Brian Kite, AIA, was on site to greet Downtown Weekly and provide the scoop on this unique architecture and interior design firm based in DTLA. One of SRK’s most important and highly visible projects is the current renovation of the Los Angeles Athletic Club (LAAC), a historic high-rise built in 1911. In what Kite calls a “labor of love,” SRK has completed Phase 1 of the project, which included gutting, renovating and reconstructing the men’s locker rooms at the athletic club. The firm is now beginning work on the area where the women’s locker room will now be housed, which is to be completed within five months. Next, the current women’s locker rooms (which are on another floor) will be demolished and construction will move down to the fifth and sixth floors where the new spa, barbershop, restaurant, pool and amenity areas will be included. The men’s spa has already been completed, and includes a whirlpool, steam room, sauna, showers, men’s lounge and several hundred NBA-style lockers, said Kite. Originally a men’s club, many of the Los Angeles Athletic Club’s improvements are culturally significant in terms of societal changes, particularly in regard to gender equality.

also bringing the historic venue into the 21st century was particularly important to LAAC President and Managing Partner Karen Hathaway and General Manager Steve Hathaway. While the LAAC is a Beaux-Art-style clubhouse designed by famed architects John Parkinson [Los Angeles City Hall, the original Bullocks-Wilshire downtown building and the LA Coliseum] and George Bergstrom [US Pentagon], Kite describes the building as “fairly utilitarian” from an architectural MEN’S SPA AT LA ATHLETIC CLUB PHOTO COURTESY LAAC perspective. Much of the building’s original design had to be re-worked to meet fire, safety and ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) codes, said Kite. Kite pointed out that it was important to the firm to be respectful of the history of the building, preserving the original architectural expression on the building’s exterior, while simultaneously bringing internal design elements forward to the 20th and 21st century. One key element of preservation was the SRK interior design team’s use of historic photos and elements that were incorporated throughout the finished space. The interior design staff poured through the basement of LAAC to discover, reframe and incorporate pieces of art that Today, the club’s membership has an had been in storage, in some cases, 50 – approximate 60/40 male to female ratio, 75 years. Another standout feature of the said Kite, but SRK has projected forward about 10 years to ensure equal accommo- renovation will be a grand, winding staircase between the fifth and sixth floor of dations for all members. “It’s exciting to do a generational update and take some of the building leading members and guests the history and carry that forward, but at from the fifth floor reception/lobby area the same time be a part of the new down- up the stairs to the spa and swimming town and reflective of the kind of member- pool. SRK literally cut a whole in the floor ship that the club wants to be,” said Kite. of the building to accommodate the major highlight. During the revitalization process, Kite The grand staircase will feature a and the SRK team have worked closely with the Hathaway Family who has owned large-scale bronze sculpture of Roman god Mercury in a pose of rising up, referencLAAC since its beginnings. As Los Aning the god’s role as a bridge between the geles’ very first club, Kite explained that upper and lower worlds. CONTINUED ON PAGE 18 preserving the history of the space while According to Kite, “The women’s facilities were built in the 50s and 60s” and were “very old and dilapidated” in comparison to the men’s facilities. With SRK’s new design plans, the men’s and women’s locker facilities will be on the same floor for the first time ever and will be “separated by a retail/reception lobby right off the main elevators on the fifth floor that will provide a new level of merchandising, reception and amenity for members that has never existed before,” said Kite.

great

DTLA PATRIOT BY Keri Freeman

DTLA-WEEKLY.COM

places for breathtaking

views OF dtla

t won’t be long before the Wilshire Grand Center on 7th and Figueroa is completed, taking the title of “tallest building on the West Coast” from the US Bank Tower constructed in the 1980s. Acquired by the Singapore property group Overseas Union Enterprise Ltd (OUE) in 2013, for the time being, OUE’s 72-floor office building located nearly 1,000 feet above Downtown reigns supreme for having the most breathtaking views and DTLA’s most thrilling rooftop experience.

Tuesday Night is Girl’s Night Out: 1/2 Off All Wine Bottles

541 S. Spring Street, LA, CA 90013 email: catering@crepes.la

10 great places OUE Skyspace

Prepare yourself for a queasy feeling as your body adjusts to the pressures immediately after exiting the first ascension inside the lavishly decorated elevator. The feeling settles quickly or maybe your just distracted by the maze of digital interactive exhibits that lead you to the second elevator where visitors have access to lounge areas, full bar and 360 degrees of angelic views from the 70th floor. From these windows one is able to see the 2,800 square feet of outdoor observation deck of Skyspace on the floor below. Only thick glass barriers constructed to keep them from falling off the edge surround those daring enough to venture to the deck. From this point there is only one other box left unchecked when it comes to the complete experience of Skyspace. That’s right, there’s two ways down to the observation deck...the easy way; you can take the stairs or the hard way; you can take Skyslide. There is no room to breath, your only choice being, holding your breath or screaming, as you find yourself racing down the outside of a Downtown skyscraper inside a curbed glass box, on a magic carpet ride; sliding from the 69th and 70th floor. The walls of the slide are 1 1/4 inches thick meaning, you can take on Skyslide to get rid of your fear of danger, heights, falling, or just being a wimp, but it may not help. Not at all. 633 W 5th Street, 90071.

City Hall Observation Deck

As delicious as it may look from the outside, sometimes with the sweetest indulgence of a $300 million dollar layer cake covered in white frosting, plenty of other

DTLA-WEEKLY.COM buildings across America can try to copy; but try as you may, you just can’t bite City Hall. Topped by the Lindbergh Beacon, lighting this historic birthday candle has for almost a century invited all of Los Angeles to gather round in song and celebration. Designed by famed architects of their time, John Parkinson, Albert C. Martin and John Austin this wondrous monument in time is mixed from the sand of 58 California counties and holy water from

21 historical missions. City Hall houses the City Council, the Mayor and various lawmakers and visionaries with their eye on Downtown. But to discover a bird’s eye view of Downtown, take the elevator to the top and pear down on Los Angeles as it was first observed over 100 years. With access to the four corners of the earth once where acres of oranges and horse driven buggies once flourished is now littered with government building to the west, 6th Street Bridge (or what’s left of it), to the east, Dodger Stadium north, and the Historic Core to the South headed by the LA Times building still with giant functioning neon clock. 200 N Spring St, Los Angeles, CA 90012.

10 great places: BY keri freeman photos by hanfu Westin The Standard At the Standard Rooftop bar you may find Bonaventure it harder to look up than plain looking The Westin Bonaventure Hotel & Suites has got to be one of the most adored landmarks in all of Los Angeles. Built in 1974, the 35-story hotel is sure to give most nostalgic feelings from childhood, reminding us how we rushed to look up just in time to catch a glimpse of one of its moving elevator pods, as it made its way up or down the outside of the dark-rounded glass futuristic fortress, for just a moment, while our parents cruised by on the 101. But the sophistication and elegance the Westin provides to the adult, as you stroll your way through the atrium lobby, past the bar to the elevator chariots during your leisurely weekend getaway, business meeting, or special event, define the essence of modern luxury. The view from inside the elevator complete you, knowing you’ve made it to the future where you now have become part of the marvel. Ascend from the ground floor to your suite, with feelings of accomplishment with views of Downtown, including City Hall and Union Station that last only as long as your ride, but with added memories that last a lifetime. 404 S Figueroa Street, 90071.

WeWork at Gas Company Towers

You can please some of the people some of the time or you can please them all, especially your co-workers and guests at WeWork’s Downtown shared office spaces on the 24th floor of the Gas Company Tower a 52 Story skyscraper, owned by Brookfield Office Properties, located at the south east edge of Bunker Hill with amazing views and youthful entrepreneur attitudes who understand the importance of having a pimp ass view when showing off their high altitude enabled offices to family and friends. The nearly 90,000 square feet space at WeWork absorbs Southern exposure through curved glass windows on the top floors of the Gas Co. Towers allowing employees and private party guest views of downtown and beyond to Catalina Island. The Millennium Biltmore, Pershing Square, LA Live, plus most of the rooftops and the tiny inhabitants of the Financial & Jewelry Districts below. 555 W. 5th Street, 90013.

around thanks to the sunbathers and heated pool party participants that offer some breathtaking skin clad views of their own. The Standard is by far not the highest building with the furthest views, in fact its nestled inside a valley of skyscrapers produced by AON, the US Bank and a few other top reaches...but The Standard is a virtual epicenter of youthful travelers mostly under 35, who don’t yet suffer

from the effects of age, including gravity, wrinkles, balding or shyness. The crowd is wet and wild, and the drinks are plenty with specialty cocktails, dance floor, outdoor fireplace, waterbed lounging pods, and a classic German Biergarten with sculptured topiary unicorns leading the way. There is no jumping...or should we say diving, just wading in the water, with some not even venturing that far so to not get their hair and makeup wet in case they decide to hook up at the disco later, which happens often thanks to the convenience of having a full service hotel on the floors below. But if you still came only to enjoy the view of majestic downtown buildings that tower over and surround you at the Standard, there are telescopes posted on the pool deck, and binoculars for sale in the gift shop. Soon to be steamy ones.

DTLA-WEEKLY.COM At first, Perch may not be the most welcoming nest to get to. Located on the 15th floor of the Historic Pershing Building, when entering the building you’re promptly questioned by security as to your purpose inside the building; even when it’s obvious you know where you’re going. A second elevator escort awaits you when exiting on the 13th floor with more questions and more instructions to follow before reaching the lounge at the top. When exiting the rickety tan and brown striped elevators decorated with brass bird emblems, you’re greeted by a not so tuned old-fashioned piano, almost irresistible not to play, but clearly annoying to anyone who hears it more than once or twice a day. Play it and the reception staff that will surely tell you, you’ll need reservations to dine in. Yet, if you are among the lucky tweeters who are able to rest your tired wings and gain a seat, you’ll find the atmosphere of Perch with its beautiful antique inspired furniture, plush lounge couches and incredibly detailed woodwork, quite enjoyable. The inside dining area is virtually surrounded by outdoor patio seating areas with ornate fireplaces and incredible romantic views of the Downtown L.A. There is even an upper deck used most days for private parties, on the 16th floor, which requires a separate elevator ride and of course, new instructions by elevator staff to ride up. Once on the 16th floor however, there is nothing to obstruct your intentions in Downtown, just breathtaking views of the night sky above and the stars in your lovers eyes. 448 S Hill Street, 90013.

Continental Building

The Continental Building, aka Braly Block, aka Hellman Building, is a 13-story high-rise residential building completed in 1903, designed by John Parkinson of Union Station and City Hall fame. Sure, at 13-stories it may not seem like much now, but back in its day it was the city’s first high-rise building, scaring the once then LA City Council into enacted a 150ft height restriction on all future buildings, Undoubtedly one of Downtown’s most romantic restaurant locations, think bird’s consequently making it the city’s tallest building for more than fifty years, (besides nest with live jazz and French cuisine on City Hall, of course, whose construction a roof top deck that offers unobstructed was backed by such rich and powerful views of Downtown Los Angeles. Is it the developers that all legalities, restrictions nest or LOVE that makes you feel you are and logic of the time, seemed to have been floating high above the City? thrown of the window...no pun intended).

Perch

10 great places...

Back then, from the enormous windows surrounded by grand arches, pillars, ribbons and lion heads, the view from the Continental gave way to the region’s most elaborate, creative, forthcoming, innovative, and what would now become Downtown’s most historic landmark of our time. The Continental, thanks to its visionary developers and the City’s new redapt reuse programs, has stood the test of time, and revealed to it’s occupants the history of Downtown Los Angeles. Towering over the time of the horse and buggy, orchard fields, newly built railroad, lights of Broadway, to today’s most solidified and best engineered City skyscrapers. 116 W 4th Street, 90013.

Takami Sushi

The Financial District has no shortage of skyscrapers, that’s for sure. With over a gazillion square feet of office and retail spaces, you can most likely choose anyone of the glass, steel giants to make an honest living, while enjoying a much desired high-story window office view. But if you really want to have a blast, consider taking the elevator 21 floors to one of Downtown’s most unique restaurant concepts. Serving the highest quality sushi, robata, and Japanese-influenced entrees, Takami Sushi and Robata’s uncompromising good service, coupled with atmosphere, and tastefully done cuisine is hard to top. Now imagine dining while enjoying a completely tantalizing view, with a table exploding with the flavors of unique and freshly prepared signature cocktails. On a warm clear night, you can see and feel forever. Outdoor torch flyers, dim lighting, comfy lounge areas will help you impress every last one of your friends, as Takami was the first in the LA area with outdoor patio dining and the first in a Downtown high rise to offer an exclusive restaurant. Renovated in 1991 the NEC of Wilshire Building was built in 1960, and that may explain its almost uncanny ability to make you believe you’re in an old spy movie of some type. Or at least at a place where you feel you’re on top of the world. 811 Wilshire Blvd, 90071.

Elevate

Don’t try to speak when you’re partying at Club Elevate. Words will do you no justice. Just allow its splendor to overwhelm you and communicate with your ability to have fun. Elevate is not just a dance club with an amazing lounge. It’s a

chance to experience the freedom of altitude inside an Ultra-Lounge where indoor and outdoor become one. It’s a 21-story penthouse, that bathes you in the outside air and shelters you inside enormous, neighboring, architectural structures, leaving you with a feeling of omnipresence, knowing that whatever your private experience with Club Elevate may be, it will be kept secret by the surrounding buildings and by the night. With randomly lit office windows that completely entice you, so close you feel like you can reach out and touch them, Elevate is a portal to another life and one of the greatest places for memories of clubbing in Downtown. 811 Wilshire Blvd, 90071.

Ritz Carlton

What is going on with that design at the Ritz? The Ritz-Carlton Residences at LA Live has dramatically re-shaped the city’s skyline. It looks like a big giant glass chair just waiting for some Japanese Anime creature from the LA Convention Center to come sit in it. Just joking. The Residences, is all glass starting on the 27th floor all the way up to the 52nd floor, with sweeping views at every turn and it stands boldly as an icon above the City. It hosts no complaints from the many visitors and condominium owners to get to reside there. Honey, it’s the RITZ.., offering world-class amenities and legendary Ritz-Carlton service to royalty, monarchs, dignitaries, the ambitious few with the right karma and those lucky enough to join them. It’s the place where billionaires whisper to themselves about millionaires wondering, “how did they get in here?” At the Ritz...the most magnificent views coming from the top floors belong only to those with who are able enough to afford them. The Ritz condos are sold out. In less than a year, the developer had sold all the residences. My life (smh). Unfortunately, I can’t say I’ve even been there to see or tell you about the view...at this point I can only imagine. But there’s no need to despair. Maybe one day The Ritz-Carlton will offer me a place inside its glittering star, bringing its sleek, sophisticated atmosphere into my life. A modern glass structure that soars high above our city is like a big crystal apple I may never get to bite. For me, the downtown oasis mind as well be a mirage but... One thing is for sure, if my cards ever deal me a chance to look through one of those penthouse windows...You’ll know about it. 900 W Olympic Blvd, 90015.

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get 2 downtown : eat.DRINK.dance.SLEEP

eat

Chu’s Kitchen 111 W 9th Street LA, CA 90015 Langer’s Delicatessen 704 S Alvarado Street LA, CA 90057 Eastside Market & Italian Deli 1013 Alpine Street LA, CA 90012 El Paseo Inn 11 Olvera Street LA, CA 900121 Farmer Boys 726 S Alameda Street LA, CA 90021 HMS Bounty 3357 Wilshire Blvd LA, CA 90010 Mitsuru Cafe 117 Japanese Village Plaza Mall LA, CA 90012 La Golondrina Cafe 17 Olvera Street LA, CA 90012 La Luz del Dia 1 Olvera Street LA, CA 90012 La Golondrina Cafe 17 Olvera Street LA, CA 90012 Nickel Diner 524 S Main Street LA, CA 90013 TheSultan 311 W 6th Street LA, CA 90014 Omasa 100 Japanese Village Plaza Mall LA, CA 90012

Otomisan 2506 1/2 E 1st Street LA, CA 90033 Original Pantry Cafe 877 S Figueroa Street LA, CA 90017 Original Tommy’s 2575 Beverly Blvd LA, CA 90057 Pacific Dining Car 1310 W 6th Street LA, CA 90017 Philippe The Original 1001 N Alameda Street LA, CA 90012 Suehiro Cafe 337 E 1st Street LA, CA 90012 Taylor’s Steak House 3361 West 8th Street LA, CA 90005 Yang Chow 819 N Broadway LA, CA 90012

DRINK

The Association 110 E 6th Street LA, CA 90014 Back Door Pub 813 S Flower Street LA, CA 90017 Bona Vista Lounge 404 S Figueroa Street LA, CA 90071 BoomTown Brewery 700 Jackson Street LA, CA 90012 Bottle Rock 1050 S Flower Street LA, CA 90015

Cana Rum Bar 714 W Olympic Blvd LA, CA 90015 Club Soho 333 S Boylston Street LA, CA 90017 Courage & Craft 317 S Broadway LA, CA 90013 Eat Drink Americano 923 E 3rd Street LA, CA 90013 Eighty Two 707 E 4th Place LA, CA 90013 gLAnce Lobby Bar 900 W Olympic Blvd LA, CA 90015 General Lee’s 475 Gin Ling Way LA, CA 90012 Golden Gopher 417 W 8th Street LA, CA 90014 Hank’s Bar 838 S Grand Ave LA, CA 90017 King Eddy Saloon 131 E 5th Street LA, CA 90013 Le Pour Haus Wine Bar 1820 Industrial Street LA, CA 90021 Pattern Bar 100 W 9th Street LA, CA 90015 Tony’s Saloon 2017 E 7th Street LA, CA 90021 Wendall 656 S Main Street LA, CA 90014

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DRINk. DANCE

The Belasco Theater 1050 S Hill Street LA, CA 90015 Blue Whale 123 Astronaut ES Onizuka LA, CA 90012 Continental Club 116 W 4th Street LA, CA 90013 The Crossing 200 S Hill Street LA, CA 90012 Elevate Lounge 811 Wilshire Blvd LA, CA 90017 Exchange LA 618 S Spring Street LA, CA 90014 GrandStar Jazz Club 943 N Broadway LA, CA 90012 La Cita Bar 336 S Hill Street LA, CA 90013 The Lash 117 Winston Street LA, CA 90013 The Mayan 1038 S Hill Street LA, CA 90015 Precinct DTLA 357 S Broadway LA, CA 90013 RedLine Gay Bar & Lounge 131 E 6th Street LA, CA 90014

Redwood Bar & Grill 316 W 2nd Street LA, CA 90012 The Reserve 650 S Spring Street LA, CA 90014

EAT.DRINK

10E 811 W 7th Street LA, CA 90017 Artisan House 614 S Main Street LA, CA 90013 Arts District Brewery 828 Traction Ave LA, CA 90012 Barrel Down 525 W 7th Street LA, CA 90014 Big Wangs 801 South Grand Ave LA, CA 90017 Bonaventure Brewing Co 404 S Figueroa Street LA, CA, 90071 Border Grill DTLA 445 South Figueroa Street LA, CA 90071 Broken Spanish 1050 S Figueroa Street LA, CA 90017 BS Taqueria 514 W 7th Street LA, CA 90014 Café Pinot 700 W 5th Street LA, CA 90071

GET 2 DOWNTOWN - restaurant bars - nightclubs - live entertainment - lodging Casa Nostra Ristorante 825 W 9th Street LA, CA 90017 Casey’s Bar & Grill 613 S Grand Ave. LA, CA 90017 Cerveteca DTLA 923 E 3rd St Ste 109 LA, 90013 Chaya 525 S. Flower Street LA, CA 90071 Church & State 1850 Industrial Street LA, CA 90021 City Tavern DTLA 735 S Figueroa Street LA, CA 90017 Cole’s 118 E 6th Street Los Angeles, CA 90014 Courtyard Los Angeles @ L.A. Live 901 W Olympic Blvd. LA, CA 90015 Crepes Sans Frontieres 541 S. Spring Street LA, CA 90013 Eat Drink Americano 923 E 3rd Street LA, CA 90012 El Compadre 1248 S Figueroa Street #101, LA, CA 90015 Escondite 410 Boyd Street LA, CA 90013 Everson Royce Bar 1936 E 7th Street LA, CA 90021 Flemings 800 West Olympic Blvd LA, CA 90015 Far Bar 347 E 1st Street LA, CA 90012 Ford’s Filling Station @L.A. LIVE 900 W Olympic Blvd. LA, CA 90015 garcons de cafe 541 S Spring Street LA, CA 90013 Ham and Eggs Tavern 433 W 8th Street LA, CA 90014 Hooters 1248 S Figueroa Street LA, CA 90015

Hop Louie 950 Mei Ling Way Rd. LA, CA 90012 Hyde Lounge 1111 S Figueroa Street LA, CA 90015 Katsuya 800 W Olympic Blvd. LA, CA 90015 Las Anitas Restaurant 26 Olvera Street LA, CA 90012 Las Perlas 107 E 6th Street LA, CA 90013 Library Bar 630 W. 6th Street LA, CA 90017 Little Bear 1855 Industrial Street LA, CA 90021 LearnAboutWine: 530 Molino Street #218 LA, CA 90013 Los Angeles Biergarten 750 S Broadway Ave LA, CA 90014 Lucky Strike 800 W 7th Street LA, CA 90017 Mas Malo 515 W. 7th Street LA, CA 90014 Melody Lounge 939 N Hill Street LA, CA 90012 Michael J’s 643 N Spring Street LA, CA 90012 Midtones 943 N Broadway LA, CA 90012 Mignon Wine Bar 128 E 6th Street LA, CA 90014 Nest at WP24 900 W Olympic Ave. LA, CA 90015 Nirvana Bar & Grill 314 E 1st Street LA, CA 90012 Pattern Bar 100 W 9th Street LA, CA 90015 Perch 448 S Hill Street LA, CA 90013 Pez Cantina 401 S Grand Ave LA, CA 90071

Pitchoun Bakery & Cafe 545 S Olive Street LA, CA 90013 Red Bird 114 East Second Street LA, CA 90012 Riordan’s Tavern 875 S Figueroa Street LA, CA 90017 Rock N’ Fish 800 W Olympic Blvd A-160, LA, CA 90015 Simbal Restaurant 319 E 2nd St Ste 202 LA, CA 90012 Spitz 371 E 2nd Street LA, CA 90012 Subway 370 E 2nd Street LA, CA 90012 Spring Street Bar 626 S Spring Street LA, CA 90014 Taste FIGat7th 735 S Figueroa Street LA, CA 90017 Takami Sushi Lounge 811 Wilshire Blvd. LA, CA 90017 Tapachines 517 S Spring Street LA, CA 90013 Tom’s Urban 1011 S Figueroa Street LA, CA 90015 Traxx@Union Station 800 N Alameda St LA, CA 90012 Triple 8 800 W. Olympic Blvd. LA, CA 90015 Vespaio 225 S. Grand Ave. LA, CA 90012 Villains Tavern 1356 Palmetto Street LA, CA 90013 Yard House 800 W Olympic Blvd. LA, CA 90015 Yxta Cocina Mexicana 601 S. Central Ave. LA, CA 90021 The Springs 608 Mateo Street LA CA 90021

Uname Burgers 738 E 3rd Street LA, CA 90013 Wokano 800 W 7th Street LA, CA 90017 Wurstküche 800 E 3rd Street LA, CA 90013 Zinc Market Place 580 Mateo Street LA, CA 90013

EAT.DRINK. DANCE. Boca @Conga Room 800 West Olympic Blvd. LA, CA 90015 Clifton’s Cafeteria 648 S Broadway Street LA, CA 90014 The Edison 108 W 2nd Street LA, CA 90012 The Falls 626 S Spring Street LA, CA 90014 Five Star Bar 267 S Main Street LA, CA 90012 Monty Bar 1222 W 7th Street LA, CA 90017 Mrs. Fish 448 S Hill Street LA, CA 90013 The Regent Theater 448 S Main Street LA, CA 90013 Salvage Bar & Lounge 717 W 7th Street LA, CA 90017 UrbanX Tavern 1248 S Figueroa Street LA, CA 90015 The Vault Night Club & Lounge 801 S Hill Street LA, CA 90014 Wolf & Crane 366 E 2nd Street LA, CA 90012

EAT. DRINK. DANCE. SLEEP

Ace Hotel 929 S Broadway LA, CA 90015 Bar and Kitchen @O Hotel 819 S. Flower Street LA, CA 90017 Bugis Street @ Millennium Biltmore 506 S Grand Ave. LA, CA 90071 Brasserie @ The Sheraton Hotel 711 S Hope St, LA, CA 90017 Invention Bar @LA Athletic Club 431 W 7th Street LA, CA 90014 Kawada Hotel 200 S Hill Street LA, CA 90012 Luxe City Center Hotel 1020 S Figueroa Street LA, CA 90015 Mixing Room @JW Marriott 900 W Olympic Blvd. LA, CA 90015 NOE Restaurant @Omni Hotel 251 S. Olive Street LA, CA 90012 The Standard Hotel 550 S Flower Street LA, CA 90071 Suede Bar & Lounge @ Bonoaventure Hotel 404 S Figueroa Street LA, CA 90071 The Ritz-Carlton Spa 900 W Olympic Blvd. LA, CA 90015 Missing Something?

Add Business, Phone & Website SEND INFO TO: editor@dtla-weekly.com

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movie buff: the legend of tarzan by frederick mintchell: photos courtesy of warner bros.

MOVIE

BUFF

amed Sweden’s sexiest man, Alexander Skarsgard has crossed a lot of items off his bucket list. Starting with a brief child acting career, later serving in the Swedish military, Alexander has starred in hit HBO shows “Generation Kill” and “True Blood”, dabbled in some modeling, gotten himself photographed by legendary photographer Annie Leibovitz, and now he’s starring as Lord Greystroke in The Legend of Tarzan.

ALEXANDER SKARSGARD CASTED AS LORD GREYSTOKE AKA TARZAN

But those behind the murderous n the film, it has been years since the plot have no idea what they are about to man once known as Tarzan (Skarsgård) unleash. When you’ve done some of the left the jungles of Africa behind for a things in your life like Skarsgard has, it’s gentrified life as John Clayton III, Lord no wonder he didn’t have much trepidaGreystoke, with his beloved wife, Jane tion about tackling such an iconic role. (Margot Robbie) at his side. Now, he has “When I read the script, I was a huge been invited back to the Congo by George fan of Tarzan and I was really excited Washington Williams (Samuel L. Jackson) when I heard that Warner Brothers and to serve as a trade emissary of Parliament, David were making this movie. But then, unaware that he is a pawn in a deadly of course, it’s been told 200 times over the convergence of greed and revenge, master- past 100 years and you always have to minded by the Belgian, Captain Leon Rom ask, ‘why are we doing it again? (Christoph Waltz).

But you open the script and it’s John Clayton drinking tea with the Prime Minister. I just thought it was so brilliant in the fact that it’s more about returning to your roots than taming the beast. I thought that was so smart the way that Adam Cozad wrote that.” I remember watching “Tarzan” on TV as a little boy. Skarsgard also has his childhood memories of the King of the Apes. “My dad and I would go to the matinee in the small town in Sweden where he grew up and watch the old movies and that’s how I fell in love with him, Tarzan.”

movie buff: the legend of tarzan

any iconic characters have an iconic line. Tarzan is no different, though it’s not really a line per se. How many of us tried to do the famous Tarzan jungle call as kids? Though the call only makes a cameo appearance in the film, a lot of work went into the sound mixing. Skarsgard offered his take. “It was a tricky one because you obviously have to have it in the movie otherwise people would be like, ‘where’s the call? It’s not in the movie.’ But also, when you watch the old movies, they are quite dated and especially the call. It comes in these moments when he’s hunted and you definitely don’t want it to be a comedic moment. That kind of (he warbles like Tarzan) it would just take you out of the movie watching it so I didn’t come up with the idea of doing it the way it is now but I think it’s really smart to, instead of having a cheesy shot of Tarzan doing the call, you see the impact on the antagonist’s face—Christoph’s (Waltz) face—because it makes it more eerie and haunting. I thought that was really smart, having it in the movie but you kind of avoid it being cheesy or comedic, which would be even worse. I did the call for sure but it’s kind of a hybrid.” Like the iconic jungle call, we can all picture Tarzan in his iconic loincloth. Unfortunately for you loincloth fans, the loincloth, like the famous call, only makes a cameo appearance in the film. Fortunately for you loincloth fans, as with tackling the role, Skarsgard also had no trepidation about wearing famous outfit. “I was trying to get a little sexy loincloth. I was trying to convince David [Yates, the director] for weeks when we were doing prep and unfortunately, the way the script is written, it opens in London, it’s Victorian and he’s acclimated to life in London then he goes back (to the jungle) and David was like, “It doesn’t make sense. That little loincloth’s got to go.” It shows up after that when he swings through the trees but it’s more like a little mini-sarong.” Of course, if millions of people are going to see you fly through the air with the greatest of ease in said loincloth, you don’t want a beer gut to be the first thing people see as you swing from vine to vine. Like all actors who take on such an intense, physical role, Skarsgard went on an intense, physical training regimen. “It was different phases. The first phase was three months of bulking up while I

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We obviously did quite a bit of the vine swing ourselves. The scene where Sam [Jackson] is riding on my back is real. That amazing stunt, we pulled off but I was just blown away when I saw the movie because it was so crazy what they can do with technology today. They had a 3D scanned version of my body then they had Augusts Dakteris, one of the greatest trapeze artists in the world come in. I don’t know how tall he is, but he’s very short and it was a circus. We sat there with our coffees and watched him do these amazing stunts on the vine. Then they would just remove his body, use his movements and replace it with my body. I’m watching the movie and I recognized myself doing these, like, Olympic stunts where I’m like, ‘should I take credit for this? I’m awesome.’ But I think Augusts deserves all the credit for sure.” As with most summer tentpole movies these days, CGI is almost as big a star in the films as the actors themselves. When you’ve been acting in Hollywood long enough, you will eventually find yourself acting in front of a green screen. However, no matter how long you’ve been acting in Hollywood, it’s always weird acting in front of a green screen. “We were slightly worried there for a second, weren’t we, when we were on the Savannah and there’s a scene with the big male lion running across the Savannah and there were two guys holding a cardboard cutout of a lion and they were running like this (indicates a silly run) MARGOT ROBBIE CASTED AS JANE IN THE LEGEND OF TARZAN and Sam [Jackson], Margot and I were like to make it (tasty). He’s an amazing artist [sarcastically], ‘this is going to be a great chef but he had his hands tied because movie. They really went all out on this one this was like no sugar, no dairy, a very [laughing].” strict diet. When we wrapped the movIt’s every actor’s dream to be the star of a summer tentpole movie. So how did he ie, my father was shooting this Netflix mini-series, “River,” in London at the time celebrate when he learned of his casting coup? and I got in my car and went straight to “I was actually on a sailboat in the his house. My dad loves to cook so I spent Canary Islands about to said across the four days on his couch just being fed. It was the most incredible week of my life. It Atlantic and I was looking forward to three weeks of being off the grid entirely with no was bone marrow, fried mozzarella, pase-mail or cell phone or anything and I was tries and red wine.” With such a physical on the boat, we were getting ready to push role, many stunts are required. off and David called me and said “It’s lookLike many actors, Skarsgard did some of his own stunts, but most stunts were ing good. I think we’re going to do this” so left to the professionals of course. that was quite exciting. I got off the phone “There are some things in this movie I and set course for America to sail across can’t really take credit for. It was a long, the Atlantic. It was an incredible moment. intense training period to get ready for the I celebrated by just sailing for three weeks role, but the really cool stuff in the movie from the Canary Islands to the U.S. It was was done by a trapeze artist. an incredible experience.”

was wrapping up “True Blood” here in L.A. so it was Tupperware with 700 calories a day, steak and potatoes, that kind of stuff and weightlifting. Then, when I got to London about a month and a half before we started the movie, I had a great opportunity to work with Wayne McGregor who is one of the biggest choreographers in the world and that was one of my favorite parts of the whole experience was working with Wayne on the physicality of the character. It was very important that Tarzan is flexible and agile when he moves through the jungles and that he doesn’t look like a body builder so even though I wanted to put on some weight, the goal wasn’t just to get buff, it was to look athletic.” The biggest problem with getting buff is the diet. It can be hard to eat grilled chicken and steamed vegetables everyday when you really want pizza and ice cream. “The diet was horrible but I’ve got to give credit to Guy our chef who really tried

DTLA PATRIOTS : CONTINUED

BRIAN KITE:

SRK ARCHITECTURE “That grand stair is going to be a relatively modern expression…as opposed to a historic stair,” said Kite. “We looked at doing a historic stair… but the modern codes just simply don’t allow it… you have to dilute the historic beauty so much because [of] the way the codes have changed, so rather than try to do that we just … decided that we should bring it into a contemporary expression that is also consistent with everything else.” On the sixth floor of the building, many items will be preserved including the historic swimming pool, basketball courts covered by distinctive filigreed skylights, the ceiling treatments and the historic swimming pool. SRK does focus quite a bit on downtown clients. For instance, SRK has worked on the sanctuary renovation of nearby St. Johns Episcopal Cathedral at Adams and Figueroa, and the firm now has a couple of projects in Chinatown. “Chinatown, I think, is…one of the segments of downtown that is going to become important in the future and, of course, the financial core of downtown has always been important, but I think Chinatown, in its own way is kinda the Northern hub of downtown [and] is going to emerge as an important player,” said Kite. In addition to Chinatown, Kite believes the Figueroa Corridor will also play an important part in the city’s development.

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“USC has its own very ambitious plans and we’re going to see many more construction cranes around USC.” As the son of an architect, Kite loves the profession, still sketches and designs, and at times prefers to have a little closer control over the practice. “After really working for several large firms, as well as having my own firm early in my career, I decided that I really prefer to have a little closer control to the practice of architecture because I really found in a large practice, I wasn’t able to personally get involved…with my clients… the reason that a firm is hired is almost always the principal’s involvement in that project.” Because of this, Kite and SRK Principal, Director of Operations Gabriel Avalos are personally involved in every single firm project. According to Kite, “Architecture is built on optimism. There’s no pessimistic client that’s ever hired an architect. If you’re pessimistic, then you’re just not going to be building.” “Associate Principal Hugo Calderon, is our chief designer, but I serve as the design principal and managing principal in a dual role simply because I think the integrated architecture -- the integration of design and the documents it takes to build a building -- need to be completely one in the same.” He added, “Construction is a very difficult process… a messy process; we feel like, if we’re not willing to go through that, then we’re not really doing our job as architects. Our desire is not to become the largest firm in Los Angeles or Downtown Los Angeles… What we want to do is be limited in our size, but focused on providing the highest level of service we possibly can, which is to have a completely inte-

grated design and working drawings and fully integrated architecture, engineering and interior design process. We won’t do one of those disciplines and not the other. If you don’t want the whole enchilada, you can’t buy it from us.”

CARMEN RODRIGUEZ TOLEDO Dressed to impress, Toledo is a fashion advocate and is often found in designer wears. A survivor of Cancer, she’s made up her mind to live everyday to the fullest. To get some idea of just how much Toledo is truly adored by those around her, she had to be the one to console her doctor immediately after he told her news that she only had a 20 percent chance of living. She is a true survivor, but really, if you can survive Downtown in the early days, you can survive anything. With grace and confidence, and impeccable fashion sense, her designer wardrobe matches designer lifestyle. “As a woman, it’s great to be beautiful, feminine and artistic – and it aint over until it’s over.” says Toledo. Look out for next season’s live broadcast of DTLA TODAY, as Toledo plans to take PRADA and a film crew through the streets of Downtown driving an electric golf cart, conducting interviews and parring out words of wisdom and overall support for Downtown LA.

SAT SUN MON TUE WED THU FRI 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 ROCKIES(H)7:10

ROCKIES(H)1:10

ORIOLES(H)6:10

ORIOLES(H)7:10

ORIOLES(H)12:10

PADRES(H)7:00

PADRES(H)4:15

LIBERTY(H)2:00

FEVER(H)7:30

DOWNTOWN WEEKLY CLASSIFIED ADS WANTED!!! HARD WORKER!!!

employment DOWNTOWN CAFE

SEEKS LINE COOKS, DISHWASHERS & CASHIERS EXPERIENCE REQUIRED 6AM - 3PM CALL ROBIN AT 213-221-7206

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MUST HAVE Great Customer Service Skills Experience in the Food Service Industry Available to Work Weekdays & Weekends ----Apply IN PERSON between 2pm-4pm Twist and Grill 735 S. Figueroa St., Los Angeles, CA 90017 Please bring a resume with you when you apply. Ask for David or Narcisa

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