GTO
had originally proposed to develop the properties in two separate projects,
demolishing the structures and building side-by-side contemporary housing
developments.However, with strong
community support for historic preservation, the Ramona was designated by the
City Council as a local cultural resource, with the front two buildings and the
courtyard site plan identified as character-defining features.
GTO
has embraced the designation and worked closely with City Staff, existing tenants
and the community for over a year to create a Project that preserves the best
elements of the Ramona and at the same time provides a mix of new, first-class
affordable and market-rate housing for our growing population.GTO?s goal is to integrate both properties,
and through insightful design, create a new landmark courtyard housing project
that extends the Ramona?s useful life, enhances the Ramona?s position as a
community cultural resource and develops highly unique and creative new housing
stock for the City of West Hollywood.