The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf initially planned to build a new headquarters on a vacant lot at 6000 W. Jefferson Blvd. in Baldwin Hills, Los Angeles. The project, which was approved by the Planning Commission in November 2018, was intended to be a nearly 220,000 square feet facility consisting of two buildings. Building A was planned to front Jefferson Blvd and include warehouse, manufacturing, roasting, and a retail coffee shop with a drive-thru [1[1].However,the project did not come to fruition. In 2022, the land was acquired by developer Tishman Speyer for $31 million. Although Tishman Speyer has not yet sought city permits to build on the land, recent developments in the area suggest a mix of offices and housing near metro’s La cienega/Jefferson Station [2[2].
The site had previously been used for vehicle and container storage from 1995 until 2017, when it was sold to coffee bean to facilitate the never-built development [3[3].
The Future of Baldwin Hills: An Interview on The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf Headquarters Project
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Baldwin Hills, a prominent neighborhood within Los Angeles, saw a significant progress plan come to fruition with The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf’s proposed headquarters. Slated to occupy a vacant lot at 6000 W. Jefferson Blvd., the project, though approved in November 2018, encountered uncertainties that rerouted its course. Now owned by Tishman Speyer,the land holds the potential for a diverse mix of offices and housing.
Interview with Urban development Specialist, Emily TJ
Emily TJ is a recognized expert in urban development with a primary focus on commercial and residential real estate in Los Angeles. Today, she joins our senior editor to discuss the proposed headquarters of The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf and the recent changes surrounding this project.
Initial Development Plans
Senior Editor: Emily, let’s dive into the details. What can you tell us about the initial plans for The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf’s headquarters?
Emily TJ: The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf initially planned to build a nearly 220,000 square feet facility at 6000 W. Jefferson Blvd. This project, approved by the Planning Commission in november 2018, would have consisted of two buildings. Building A was projected to front Jefferson Blvd. and include warehouse, manufacturing, roasting, and a retail coffee shop with a drive-thru.
The Approval and Setbacks
Senior Editor: Despite the project’s approval, it never came to fruition. What factors might have contributed to its roadblocks?
Emily TJ: There are several potential reasons for the project’s halt.Market dynamics, funding issues, or internal decisions by the Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf could have played a role. Often, such large-scale projects face challenges that can delay or cancel construction plans. City regulations and community feedback also sometimes influence such outcomes.
The Acquisition by Tishman Speyer
Senior editor: Fast forward to 2022, and the land was acquired by Tishman Speyer for $31 million. What implications does this change have for Baldwin Hills?
Emily TJ: The acquisition by Tishman Speyer is significant as the developer is known for large-scale, high-quality projects. Their interestpars in the area suggest a shift in the development vision, possibly aligning with the city’s broader plans for mixed-use spaces. This inclusion of residential elements near the La Cienega/Jefferson Metro Station indicates a strategic approach to urban development.
Future Developments
Senior Editor: Given these recent developments, what can we expect to see at 6000 W. Jefferson Blvd. in the near future?
emily TJ: While Tishman Speyer has not yet sought city permits, the broader context suggests a mix of office and housing. This development aligns with Los Angeles’s ongoing initiatives to create more neighborhood-serving retail and residential spaces. Building near metro stations leverages public transit connectivity, aiming to reduce car dependency and enhance community accessibility.
Historical Context and New directions
Senior Editor: Before the current proposals, what was the use of the land at 6000 W. Jefferson Blvd.?
Emily TJ: The site was previously used for vehicle and container storage from 1995 until 2017.This transition from industrial use to a mixed-use development reflects the changing landscape of Baldwin Hills as the area evolves to meet modern urban demands.
Final Thoughts
senior Editor: Emily, can you summarize the implications of this project for the broader development of Baldwin Hills?
Emily TJ: The change of the 6000 W. Jefferson Blvd. site represents a significant milestone for baldwin Hills. The project suggests a shift towards creating more livable and walkable communities, integrated with efficient public transportation.as Los Angeles continues to grow, such developments will play a critical role in shaping the city’s future urban landscape.
