Paul Solomon quit his job as a real estate attorney to pursue a dream of redeveloping obsolete factory buildings in downtown Los Angeles (an area that is now being called the Arts District). Although not classically trained in architecture, his passion for design and amazing intuition about space would put many licensed architects to shame. As I spent the day with him in February touring his new development of the "National Biscuit Company" Building, every turn seemed to tender a brand new treasure. Copper doors and windows, maple floors, exposed wood formwork, concrete columns, staircases ascending effortlessly to mezzanines open to below characterized these engaging spaces. It was obvious that the architect Aleks Istanbullu had carefully considered every facet of the design. The light was more than just ambient, it was an artistic device employed to articulate the subtleties of each unique loft space. And Paul recognized this. He said he had dealt with many architects before he found exactly what he wanted. It was obvious that this building was more than just a source of revenue for him, it was a source of pride... and that is rare.

Solomon was continuing to author the history of this building built in 1924 instead of ending it by tearing it down or turning it into urban cliche "loft spaces". It was obvious that he was creating the sort of energy that would allow the building to organically evolve into something very meaningful to the citizens for generations to come. The "Toy Factory" building he developed across the street has already attracted a very ecclectic and vibrant mix of businesses and residents including a denim jean factory.

It is this sort of thoughtful development we encourage and applaud. It is precedent for something that really works.

Copyright 2006 DeveloperAlert. All rights reserved.