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Museum Lofts

Adaptive Reuse & Mid-Rise Residential Project

Historic building converted into ~50,000 sq ft museum

Opportunity Zone

Appx. 85-105 residential units

New 9-story mid-rise residential building

Northwest Aerial View – Museum and Mid-Rise Residential Building
Southeast view highlighting both the residential tower
Street-level view of the residential tower’s main parking entrance on Westmoreland Avenue
Southeast perspective showing the residential tower with the museum in the background
Shared courtyard and landscaped areas
View of the shared courtyard looking toward the rear parking access
Northwest Aerial View – Museum and Mid-Rise Residential Building
Northeast view of Lofts from Westmoreland Avenue – Residential Tower
Southwest view of the museum’s preserved historic façade along Virgil Avenue
Direct west view of the museum’s front entrance and architecture from Virgil Avenue
Project Status: Vision & Pre-Development

This project is currently in the conceptual and pre-development phase. JEK Developments is actively working toward securing land control, entitlements, approvals, and financing. All renderings, specifications, and information shown are conceptual and subject to change.

Museum Lofts is a thoughtfully designed two-part development located at 525 Virgil Avenue in Koreatown, Los Angeles. The project combines the adaptive reuse of an existing historic-style bank building into a world-class cultural institution with the ground-up construction of a modern mid-rise residential building on the adjacent surface parking lot. This innovative approach transforms a challenging site — an underutilized office building in an Opportunity Zone that has struggled to attract traditional office or residential developers — into a vibrant, mixed-use destination that delivers both cultural impact and strong financial returns.
The existing building will be preserved and repurposed a Museum of History and Culture. Designed in an intellectual, high-quality style, this one-of-a-kind institution will explore history, culture, and global influence, with a strong emphasis on education, community, and empowerment.
  • Approximately 50,000 sq ft of museum space for exhibitions, galleries, and educational programming
  • Rooftop deck for museum events, resident access, and private functions
  • Integrated community programming, including partnerships for employment and training opportunities
  • Regular community service initiatives at nearby MacArthur Park
  • Discounted or complimentary access for Museum Lofts residents

Museum Lofts Adjacent to the museum, the former surface parking lot will be developed into a 9-story mid-rise residential building. The design includes:

  • One level of below-grade parking and a ground-level parking podium
  • Approximately 85–105 residential units (mix of studios, 1-, 2-, and 3-bedroom units)
  • Modern architectural design that complements the museum’s preserved façade while introducing a contemporary stepped-glass form above a columned base
  • Shared courtyard and landscaped areas creating visual and functional connection between the museum and residential building
  • Rooftop amenities and resident lounges

The museum and residential components will operate as mostly separate entities while offering mutual advantages:

  • Museum visitors will have access to shared ground-level parking during operating hours
  • Museum Lofts residents will receive discounted or complimentary museum access, priority event reservations, and invitations to exclusive programming
  • The museum will provide a unique cultural amenity that enhances resident quality of life and leasing appeal
  • The residential building will generate steady foot traffic and economic activity that supports the museum’s mission
  • Located in a designated Opportunity Zone
  • Just 0.2 miles from the Wilshire/Vermont Metro Station (B & D lines)
  • Proximity to Wilshire Boulevard, Museum Row, MacArthur Park, and Downtown Los Angeles
  • Strong transit-oriented community (TOC) incentives available
Museum Lofts represents a true win-win model. The project preserves an architecturally significant building, introduces a globally unique cultural institution to Los Angeles, creates new housing, and delivers meaningful community benefits through education, support, scholarships, and local partnerships — all while generating long-term economic value in one of Los Angeles’ most transit-rich neighborhoods.
Both components are designed with flexibility in mind. The museum building preserves the original exterior and much of the interior character while incorporating modern systems. The residential building is engineered to meet or exceed current Los Angeles building, fire, accessibility, and sustainability codes, allowing for future upgrades as market conditions evolve.

The individuals and organizations below have expressed informal support for the project. All support is nonbinding and non-contractual.

Statements of Support

“This project represents a powerful opportunity to preserve and celebrate Los Angeles history while creating real economic benefit for the community.”— Dr. XYZ, USC Urban Planning Department

“We fully support this vision and look forward to partnering on reentry and youth programs.”— Homeboy Industries

Street TV – Alex Alonzo

Kev Mac Videos – Kev Mac

Craig Lawson & Co., LLC

Watts Live Event Space

Dynamic Cultural & Entertainment Destination

3 complementary zones

Combined capacity of 2,600–3,600 guests

5 pop-up restaurant stalls

Aerial View of Second Stage Area Entrance North aerial view from E 108th Street showing the Second Stage Area entrance and Watts marquee
Night Aerial View of Food Space Area and Pedestrian Bridge Southeast night aerial view from Grandee Avenue showing the Food Space Area and pedestrian bridge
Aerial View of Main Stage Area Southwest aerial view showing the Main Stage Area, Food Space in the background, and connecting pedestrian bridge
Ground-Level View of Main Stage Direct stage-level view of the Main Stage Area
Aerial View of Food Space Area South aerial view showing Grandee Avenue on the right and backstage of the Second Stage Area on the left
Aerial View from E 108th Street and Willowbrook Avenue Northwest aerial view of the Second Stage Area and marquee entrance
Aerial View from E 103rd Street and Graham Avenue Southwest aerial view of the Main Stage Area and the Historic Watts Towers Metro Station
Aerial View of Food Space Area South aerial view of the Food Space Area and two-story pop-up restaurants
Street-Level View of Food Space Area Ground-level view of seating and dining area within the Food Space
Night Aerial View of Food Space Area South night aerial view with Grandee Avenue on the right and rear of the Second Stage Area on the left
Night Aerial View of Food Space Area South night aerial view with Grandee Avenue on the right and rear of the Second Stage Area on the left
Aerial View of Main Stage Area South aerial view of the Main Stage Area with Graham Avenue on the left
Arial view of Food Space Area looking South with Grandee Avenue to the right.
Night Street View of Food Space Area and Pedestrian Bridge Southeast night street-level view from Grandee Avenue showing the Food Space Area and pedestrian bridge
Project Status: Vision & Pre-Development
This project is currently in the conceptual and pre-development phase. JEK Developments is actively working toward securing land control, entitlements, approvals, and financing. All renderings, specifications, and information shown are conceptual and subject to change.
Watts Live Event Space is a dynamic, temporary MVP cultural and entertainment destination strategically developed on the historic grounds adjacent to the Watts Towers Arts Center. Designed as a scalable, modular venue, it transforms underutilized open land into a vibrant hub for live performances, community gatherings, culinary experiences, and cultural programming. The space is intentionally phased to prove attendance, community support, and financial viability before advancing to larger permanent structures — embodying the core principles of Legacy Development: zero-to-low displacement, cultural preservation, insider-led innovation, and generational wealth-building. The site is divided into three complementary zones — Main Stage Area, Second Stage Area, and Food Space Area — each with distinct programming capabilities while maintaining seamless flow and shared infrastructure. The layout leverages existing street parking (Graham Ave, Grandee Ave, 104th St, 108th St, Compton Ave) and the adjacent shopping center lot for overflow, ensuring accessibility without new land acquisition.
  • Total Site Area: Approximately 144,452 square feet (13,419 square meters) across the three zones
    • Main Stage Area: ~51,172 sq ft (4,754 m²)
    • Second Stage Area: ~63,957 sq ft (5,941 m²)
    • Food Space Area: ~29,323 sq ft (2,724 m²)
  • Usable Event Footprint: ~125,000–135,000 sq ft (after circulation, fencing, and staging buffers)
  • Maximum Combined Capacity:
    • Standing/concert configuration: 2,600–3,600 guests
    • Seated theater-style: 1,700–2,400 guests
    • Mixed-use (seated + standing): 2,200–3,000 guests
  • Stages:
    • Main Stage: Large-format (40 ft wide × 20 ft deep × 4 ft high, modular)
    • Second Stage: Large-format secondary (35 ft wide × 18 ft deep × 4 ft high, modular)
    • Food Space Stage: Small platform (20 ft wide × 12 ft deep × 3 ft high, modular)
  • Perimeter & Security:

Modern, architecturally integrated privacy/security fencing (powder-coated steel with integrated accent lighting) enclosing the full perimeter, ensuring controlled access and a premium, safe environment.

  • Covering & Weather Protection: Partial high-end modern tarp/canopy system (tensioned fabric structures) providing shade and light rain protection over key zones (stages, gathering areas, food stalls), while preserving open-air energy
  • Amenities Included:
    • Combined Café / Information Center / Gift Shop (Main Stage Area)
    • Prominent “WATTS” marquee entrance (Second Stage Area)
    • Five 2-story temporary pop-up restaurant stalls (Food Space Area)
    • Multiple large-format TV/LED screens for dynamic visuals and content
    • Ample modular seating, gathering lawns, and turf surfacing
    • Integrated power, lighting, and sound infrastructure-ready points
    • ADA-compliant pathways and access throughout
Located immediately adjacent to the iconic Watts Towers Arts Center and framed by major arterial streets (Graham Ave, Grandee Ave, Compton Ave), Watts Live Event Space capitalizes on its cultural significance and high-visibility location to become a new destination for Los Angeles and beyond. The phased MVP approach allows for real-world testing of attendance, programming, and revenue while minimizing risk and displacement. Market-rate events (premium concerts, cultural showcases, private bookings) target regional visitors with higher spending power, generating tax revenue and economic activity that directly benefits Watts through reinvestment in schools, services, infrastructure, and local jobs. Simultaneously, dedicated community programming (free/low-cost farmers markets, off-peak access days, workshops) ensures inclusivity and cultural preservation — embodying Legacy Development’s commitment to win-win outcomes for residents, businesses, and investors.

The entire layout is fully modular and scalable, allowing for phased enhancements (e.g., permanent structures, expanded power, additional canopies) as attendance and revenue grow. All elements are designed to meet or exceed Los Angeles County and City of Los Angeles building, fire, and accessibility codes.

The Main Stage Area serves as the flagship gathering and performance hub within the Watts Live Event Space. Strategically positioned to maximize visibility and flow from Graham Avenue and the adjacent parking corridors, this zone delivers a sophisticated yet accessible venue for cultural programming, live music, community activations, and private events. Designed with flexibility in mind, the space balances high-impact production capabilities with intimate, community-centered experiences.

Key Specifications

  • Total Area: Approximately 51,172 square feet (4,754 square meters)
  • Usable Event Footprint: ~40,000–45,000 sq ft (after accounting for circulation, fencing, and staging buffers)
  • Maximum Capacity:
    • Standing/concert configuration: 1,200–1,500 guests
    • Seated theater-style: 800–1,000 guests
    • Mixed-use (seated + standing): 1,000–1,300 guests
  • Stage Dimensions: Large-format main stage (approximately 40 ft wide × 20 ft deep × 4 ft high, modular and expandable) with professional-grade rigging points and power infrastructure
  • Perimeter & Security: Modern, architecturally integrated privacy/security fencing (powder-coated steel with integrated lighting) enclosing the full perimeter, ensuring controlled access and a premium event feel
  • Covering & Weather Protection: Partial high-end modern tarp/canopy system (modular tensioned fabric structures) providing shade and light rain protection over key zones (stage, gathering area, café), while preserving open-air energy
  • Amenities Included:
    • Combined Café / Information Center / Gift Shop structure
    • Open gathering lawn with modular seating and turf surfacing
    • Integrated LED lighting and sound infrastructure-ready points
    • ADA-compliant pathways and access throughout

Located immediately adjacent to the historic Watts Towers Arts Center and framed by Graham Avenue, this area capitalizes on the site’s cultural significance while creating a safe, vibrant destination. The Main Stage Area is engineered to attract both local residents and regional visitors, generating economic activity that supports Watts through increased tax revenue, job creation (event staff, vendors, security), and infrastructure reinvestment. By offering premium, market-rate events alongside dedicated community programming (free/low-cost access days, farmers markets and workshops), the space ensures inclusivity while maintaining financial sustainability.

The layout is fully modular and scalable, allowing for phased upgrades (e.g., permanent lighting rigs, additional power, expanded canopy coverage) as attendance and revenue grow. All elements are designed to meet or exceed Los Angeles County and City of Los Angeles building, fire, and accessibility codes.

The Second Stage Area functions as a versatile, high-energy secondary performance and activation zone within the Watts Live Event Space. Positioned along Graham Avenue with direct visibility from the street and easy access from surrounding parking corridors (Grandee Ave, 104th St, and Compton Ave), this area is designed to complement the Main Stage while offering independent programming flexibility. Ideal for emerging artists, community showcases or intimate cultural events, the Second Stage creates a dynamic entry point and overflow space that enhances the overall visitor experience.

Key Specifications

  • Total Area: Approximately 63,957 square feet
  • Usable Event Footprint: ~55,000–60,000 sq ft (after circulation, fencing, and staging buffers)
  • Maximum Capacity:
    • Standing/concert configuration: 800–1,200 guests
    • Seated theater-style: 500–800 guests
    • Mixed-use (seated + standing): 700–1,000 guests
  • Stage Dimensions: Large-format secondary stage (approximately 35 ft wide × 18 ft deep × 4 ft high, modular design) with professional rigging and power infrastructure
  • Perimeter & Security: Modern, architecturally integrated privacy/security fencing (powder-coated steel with integrated accent lighting) enclosing the full perimeter, ensuring controlled access and a premium, safe environment
  • Covering & Weather Protection: Partial high-end modern tarp/canopy system (tensioned fabric structures) providing shade and light rain protection over the stage and key gathering zones, while maintaining an open, airy feel
  • Amenities Included:
    • Prominent marquee sign entrance reading “WATTS” (illuminated, modern design visible from E 108th Street)
    • Open gathering lawn with modular seating and turf surfacing
    • Integrated LED lighting and sound-ready points

ADA-compliant pathways and access throughout

Anchored by its prominent “WATTS” marquee entrance along E 108th Street, this area serves as a welcoming gateway to the Watts Live Event Space, drawing both local residents and regional visitors. The elongated, triangular layout maximizes street-level visibility and accessibility while creating an intimate yet scalable performance environment. By offering market-rate events alongside dedicated community programming (free/low-cost access during off-peak times, showcases, workshops), the Second Stage Area generates economic activity that supports Watts through increased tax revenue, job creation (event staff, vendors, security), and infrastructure reinvestment — all while preserving and celebrating the neighborhood’s rich heritage.

The layout is fully modular and scalable, allowing for phased enhancements (e.g., permanent lighting rigs, additional power, expanded canopy coverage) as attendance and programming grow. All elements are designed to meet or exceed Los Angeles County and City of Los Angeles building, fire, and accessibility codes.

The Food Space Area serves as the vibrant culinary and social activation zone within the Watts Live Event Space. Positioned along Grandee Avenue with direct street visibility and convenient access from surrounding parking corridors (104th St, 108th St, Compton Ave, and the adjacent shopping center lot), this area is designed to deliver an elevated yet approachable dining and entertainment experience. The space supports five temporary pop-up restaurant stalls, creating a lively food court atmosphere that celebrates local flavors, fosters community interaction, and draws both neighborhood residents and regional visitors.

Key Specifications

  • Total Area: Approximately 29,323 square feet
  • Usable Event Footprint: ~25,000–27,000 sq ft (after circulation, fencing, and staging buffers)
  • Maximum Capacity:
    • Standing/food court configuration: 600–900 guests
    • Seated dining + viewing: 400–600 guests
    • Mixed-use (seated + standing): 500–800 guests
  • Pop-Up Restaurant Stalls: Five modular, temporary 2-story pop-up restaurant structures (each approximately 20 ft × 40 ft footprint per floor, modern design with open-air counters and second-level seating/viewing)
  • Stage/Platform: Small tertiary stage/platform (approximately 20 ft wide × 12 ft deep × 3 ft high, modular) for live music or food demos
  • Digital Screens: Several large-format TV/LED screens (mounted on stands or integrated into structures) for dynamic visuals, event programming, artist spotlights, or branded content
  • Perimeter & Security: Modern, architecturally integrated privacy/security fencing (powder-coated steel with integrated accent lighting) enclosing the full perimeter, ensuring controlled access and a premium, safe environment
  • Covering & Weather Protection: Partial high-end modern tarp/canopy system (tensioned fabric structures) providing shade and light rain protection over the stalls, seating, and stage, while maintaining an open, airy feel
  • Amenities Included:
    • Ample modular seating and picnic-style tables
    • Integrated power and lighting infrastructure
    • ADA-compliant pathways and access throughout
    • Space for food truck or pop-up vendor flexibility

       Strategically aligned along Grandee Avenue, the Food Space Area capitalizes on its visibility and proximity to the Watts Towers Arts Center, creating a natural destination for culinary experiences that reflect the neighborhood’s rich food culture. By offering market-rate events alongside dedicated community programming (free/low-cost access during off-peak times, farmers markets, cooking workshops), the area generates economic activity that supports Watts through increased tax revenue, job creation (vendors, staff, security), and infrastructure reinvestment — all while preserving and celebrating the neighborhood’s heritage and local entrepreneurship.

The layout is fully modular and scalable, allowing for phased enhancements (e.g., permanent power upgrades, additional screens, expanded canopy coverage) as attendance and programming grow. All elements are designed to meet or exceed Los Angeles County and City of Los Angeles building, fire, and accessibility codes.

The individuals and organizations below have expressed informal support for the project. All support is nonbinding and non-contractual.

Statements of Support

“This project represents a powerful opportunity to preserve and celebrate Los Angeles history while creating real economic benefit for the community.”— Dr. XYZ, USC Urban Planning Department

“We fully support this vision and look forward to partnering on reentry and youth programs.”— Homeboy Industries

 

Watts Towers Cultural Institute

Craig Lawson & Co., LLC