Creative Space was engaged by the Flyer family to guide the historic restoration and reprogramming of The Western, a 1925-built mixed-use courtyard building in the historic Melrose Hill section of Hollywood. Originally designed as housing for studio workers from the nearby Paramount Studios, the building became an artistic enclave, fostering a bohemian ecosystem that helped shape LA’s cultural landscape.
Over time, The Western fell into disrepair. The once-vibrant courtyard was closed off, the retail spaces were consolidated into low-cost furniture outlets, and the building lost much of its character. The Flyer family’s goal was to restore The Western to its former glory as an artist colony while elevating it to top-of-market status.
History & Cultural Legacy: From the 1960s through the 1990s, The Western was home to a thriving community of artists, musicians, and filmmakers. As documented in LA Weekly’s 1994 article Quiet on the Western Front, it attracted countercultural figures, legendary parties, and an eclectic creative scene. This cultural history served as the foundation for our restoration approach—preserving The Western’s identity while adapting it for a new era.
Our Approach: Bringing back the community. To honor The Western’s artistic roots, we curated a tenant mix that reflects its original ethos, with anchor tenant Marissa Jartcky of Desmar leading the selection of specialty merchants:
• Hannah Hoffman Gallery – Contemporary art gallery continuing The Western’s legacy of creative expression.
• Shio Kusaka – LA-based artist known for her innovative approach to ceramics.
• Kiko Kostadinov – The London-based cult fashion label’s second outpost.
• Roseark – A fine jewelry boutique emphasizing craftsmanship and design.
• NAL Studio – Renowned tattoo artist establishing his flagship studio in the neighborhood he grew up in.
• Hey You! – A celebrated men’s hairstylist relocating from La Brea.
• Rocky’s Matcha – A cult-favorite matcha tea brand anchoring the back of the property.
Restoring the Architectural Character. Our approach focused on reviving The Western’s original energy:
• Reopened the central courtyard by restoring the original shop configuration.
• Preserved historic elements, including the ornate wrought iron gate.
• Refined the exterior palette and signage, maintaining a historically inspired aesthetic.
• Landscaped the courtyard, sourcing furnishings through Desmar to create a warm, communal space.
Outcome: The Western Returns to Its Roots. With the restoration complete and a thoughtfully assembled group of artists, designers, and independent merchants now calling it home, The Western has been reborn as a cultural landmark—honoring its rich artistic past while embracing a new era.
Photography by Matt Correia
