Eastern Columbia Lofts | Historic Core DTLA Art Deco Guide
Commanding the corner of 9th Street and Broadway, the Eastern Columbia Lofts (849 S Broadway) is widely celebrated as the "Jewel of the Historic Core" and one of the most stunning examples of Art Deco architecture in the world. Originally completed in 1930 as the headquarters for the Eastern Outfitting Company and the Columbia Outfitting Company, this architectural masterpiece was designed by the legendary Claud Beelman. In 2006, the Kor Group, together with Killefer Flammang Architects, meticulously transformed the building into a premier collection of luxury live/work residences, successfully maintaining its designation as Los Angeles Historic-Cultural Monument #843.
Clad in a brilliant turquoise terra-cotta tile exterior with deep blue and gold leaf accents, and crowned by an iconic four-sided clock tower, Eastern Columbia stands out from the rest of the DTLA landscape. As a dedicated Downtown LA real estate specialist, David Hernandez provides deep neighborhood expertise, historical insight, and direct building connections for professionals and creatives looking to lease a true piece of living history.
Building Specifications & Features
• Street Address: 849 S Broadway, Los Angeles, CA 90014
• Neighborhood: Historic Core / Fashion District Border (Downtown Los Angeles)
• Year Built / Converted: 1930 / 2006
• Total Floors: 13 stories
• Total Residences: 147 luxury live/work loft condominiums and multi-level penthouses
• Unit Sizes: Ranging from open ~720 sq. ft. studio flats to custom multi-level penthouses exceeding 2,750 sq. ft.
• Architect: Claud Beelman (Original) / Killefer Flammang Architects (Conversion)
• Tax Advantage: Mills Act Certified (Provides significant property tax savings for owners)
Premium Interior Architecture & Historic Finish
The interior residences at Eastern Columbia beautifully blend timeless Art Deco grandeur with raw, modern industrial features:
• Towering Open Spaces: Residences boast ceiling heights starting at 14 feet, highlighted by exposed structural concrete, original columns, and industrial utility ductwork.
• Gourmet Architectural Kitchens: Seamlessly integrated into the open floor plans, the kitchens feature rich hardwood flooring, custom stainless steel cabinetry, stone countertops, and premium built-in appliances.
• Luxurious Bathrooms: Bathrooms feature custom vanities with penny-tile mosaics, deep soaking tubs, and high-end Kohler fixtures that mirror the building’s heritage.
• Grand Architectural Intimacy: Large, historic multi-pane iron-frame windows frame intimate, textured views of the vibrant Broadway theater district and the surrounding city skyline.
World-Class Rooftop Services & Amenities
Life at the Eastern Columbia Lofts extends to an elite, hotel-tier rooftop environment that offers an unmatched escape from the bustling streets below:
• The Iconic Rooftop Pool Deck: Swim alongside the historic four-sided neon clock tower in a heated saline pool, surrounded by an oversized hot spa, plush sun loungers, and lush detailing.
• Penthouse-Level Leisure Lounge: An outdoor fireplace lounge area accompanied by stone-clad grilling stations and a rooftop gym equipped with state-of-the-art cardio and weight-training equipment.
• The Elegant Entrance Lobby: A breathtaking, two-story entrance lobby featuring custom Deco ironwork, gold-leaf ceilings, a spectacular sunburst elevator foyer, and a peaceful brick-paved courtyard.
• 24/7 Security & Hospitality Staff: 24-hour front desk attendants, secured package reception, closed-circuit security monitoring, and secure attached parking in the building garage.
Navigating the Eastern Columbia Market with David Hernandez
Because of its iconic architectural status and world-famous rooftop amenity deck, residences inside Eastern Columbia move exceptionally fast. These unique live/work configurations are highly sought after by entertainment executives, artists, and remote professionals who want a sophisticated space that doubles as an impressive backdrop for clients.
Whether you are looking to secure a street-access live/work creative studio or a custom penthouse directly beneath the historic clock tower, David Hernandez and the LA Urban Living team bring invaluable experience to your search. We utilize real-time MLS monitoring networks, deep resident networks, and building histories to uncover off-market opportunities, help you assemble pristine application packages, and navigate strict condominium association guidelines.
At the Intersection of Culture, Dining, and Retail
The Broadway corridor places you in the energetic heart of DTLA’s cultural revival, surrounded by historic theaters and modern lifestyle amenities:
• Historic Entertainment: Steps from the iconic Orpheum Theatre, the United Theater on Broadway, and a quick stroll to Crypto.com Arena and L.A. LIVE.
• Elite Dining & Cafes: Surrounded by acclaimed culinary destinations, including the Apple Tower Theatre store, Woodspoon, Pine & Crane, PRANK Bar, and the Grand Central Market.
• Everyday Urban Conveniences: Walk easily to Whole Foods Market, Ralphs Fresh Fare, the historic Fashion District wholesale markets, and independent coffee roasters.
• Flawless Transport Connections: Centralized positioning provides rapid walking access to the Metro 7th Street/Metro Center station and prompt vehicular access to the 10, 110, and 101 freeways.
Schedule Your Private Tour at Eastern Columbia
Ready to step inside a rare Art Deco penthouse or live/work loft at 849 S Broadway? Connect directly with local neighborhood specialist David Hernandez at (213) 808-4324 or via email at david@laurbanliving.com to unlock real-time lease inventory and arrange your private building walkthrough. Explore our entire library of popular DTLA building profiles at laloftsforrent.com.