The Laurel Apartments combines historic preservation with complementary new infill construction to create 57 units of supportive housing in Santa Monica. At the heart of the project is the restored Nikkei Hall, a mid-century modern landmark built in 1957 by Japanese American community leaders. Once a vital gathering place for Japanese Americans, the Hall has been restored and repurposed as a community room for residents.

The new four-story building wraps around a landscaped central courtyard and features sustainable, all-electric apartments designed to provide stability and support for individuals overcoming homelessness. The project includes a recreated Japanese style garden in front of the historic building as well as a meadow green roof and an enclosed landscaped courtyard and an edible community garden on the roof.

Residents, many of whom are seniors or individuals with disabilities, also benefit from on-site services. By thoughtfully integrating preservation with modern design, The Laurel Apartments honors the legacy of Nikkei Hall while addressing Santa Monica’s critical need for permanent supportive housing.