Sneak Preview: Indulge in The Century - Penultimate Luxury Living @ 1 Century Drive, Los Angeles - Or 1 Great Reason Why to Downsize from Bel Air

While construction in most of California sputters along, 700 workers are laboring furiously twenty-four hours a day to complete construction on architect Robert A. M. Stern's The Century to hit the target occupancy date of Spring 2010.

Although the building is not yet open to the public, we had the opportunity to tour the premises and with all confidence can state this 42-floor residential tower with 140 homes is a game-changer in Los Angeles real estate.

New Yorkers may be accustomed to 6-star high-rise living, but Angelenos think of mansions and estates -- not condos in the sky -- when it comes to creature comforts. Those seeking the grand, Westside life without the gardeners and handymen should take a look at this incredible alternative right in the heart of Century City.

Expectations were high for this building since Candy Spelling purchased the top two floors for $47 million in early 2008. And The Century does not disappoint.

39 units have been released ranging in price from $3.3 million for a 2,680 sq ft 3rd floor unit to $29.5 million for a 9,501 sq ft 40th floor penthouse.

The lobby sets the tone for the building -- rich, warm materials, abundant, uncluttered space -- all very pleasing to eyes.

Units come customized in three different designs: Manor, Century (both by Robert A. M Stern) and Metropolitan (by local designers Marmol Radziner).

The Stern designs are traditional and the Metropolitan design is contemporary -- and all three will find their fans.

There are currently two 8th floor models open. One of the most impressive features is the floor-to-ceiling windows that offer incredible, unobstructed views from every vantage point. Here is the Northeast view from the 8th floor. Another interesting feature is how the gently sloping, round contours of the building make for interesting spaces.

The list of amenities is long and impressive:

• 4 units per floor with private elevator and vestibule for each
  
• 24-hour valet, concierge, porter and doorman
• 75-foot pool with views of the Pacific Ocean
• 4 acre park setting
• 2 outdoor dining rooms with fireplaces & catering kitchens
• On premise restaurant and lounge
• Custom-designed entertainment suite on 2nd floor: lounge, screening room, fitness center, spa treatment rooms, business center, children's playroom ...
  
• Sony Cierge -- 24-hour digital access to all building services

And there is much, much more. The Related Companies that has an astounding track record in New York (Time Warner Center, et al) and elsewhere and what's great is that they stick around after the construction is complete. The company will manage with property -- and if the level of construction is any indication of their level of service -- Century owners should be living without a (material) care in the world. We look forward to the grand opening in months to come.

The Century
1 Century Drive

Developer and Sales:
The Related Company

Design Architect:
Robert A. M. Stern, LLP

Interior Design:
Robert A. M. Stern, LLP
Marmol Radziner and Associates AIA