The Port of Los Angeles isn’t just about shipping containers and cargo it’s rapidly transforming into one of Southern California’s most exciting redevelopment landscapes. At the heart of this change is Warehouse No. 1, a historic waterfront building now poised for adaptive reuse. Port of Los Angeles
A Historic Building With Big Potential
Built in 1917, Warehouse No. 1 sits right at Berth 60 on the LA Waterfront in San Pedro and historically served as the Port’s bonded warehouse. What makes it exceptional isn’t just its large scale (nearly 500,000 square feet) it’s also its iconic position overlooking the Los Angeles Harbor and views all the way to Catalina Island. Port of Los Angeles
In late 2024, the Port of Los Angeles issued a Request for Interest (RFI) to redevelop or adaptively reuse this property. The goal? Invite developers to propose ways to transform this under-utilized space into something vibrant and future-focused. Port of Los Angeles
What Could Warehouse No. 1 Become?
The possibilities are wide and exciting. Proposed adaptive reuse concepts include:
- Creative office space
- Hotels or boutique hospitality
- Dining and entertainment venues
- Education or cultural spaces
- Visitor-serving commercial uses Port of Los Angeles
This kind of redevelopment reflects a broader push to make the LA Waterfront a tourist, lifestyle, and mixed-use destination, not just a working port. CoStar
Real Estate Impacts Beyond the Waterfront
So why does this matter for real estate in Los Angeles?
1. Commercial & Retail Interest
As more mixed-use developments emerge around the Waterfront think dining, shopping, and entertainment commercial real estate demand in nearby neighborhoods could increase, boosting interest from restaurants, shops, and specialty services. CoStar
2. Residential Demand Nearby
Vibrant, visitor-oriented areas often attract new residents particularly renters and buyers who want walkable access to amenities, views, and cultural attractions. Projects like Warehouse No. 1 could elevate San Pedro and nearby coastal communities as premium living destinations.
3. Tourism & Local Economy
More visitors mean increased rental demand, hotel stays, urban vibrancy, and potentially a boost for local businesses all of which feed back into real estate values. Port of Los Angeles
What’s Next
Developers submitted concepts to meet the Port’s RFI deadline, and the project is set to move into more detailed qualification and proposal phases through 2025. As the plan evolves, the Warehouse No. 1 site could become a cornerstone of the waterfront’s economic and lifestyle transformation. Port of Los Angeles
In summary: What was once a forgotten industrial relic is now positioned to become a buzzing center of commerce and community, with ripple effects that could shape real estate — both commercial and residential in greater Los Angeles for years to come.