The façade of 428 Hewitt would have many assume
the building is an artist studio or small creative office place. Before this year, that assumption was
only half right. Owners Tim and Bridget Kreihbel
purchased the1904 building in 2000, living on the
top floor and using the downstairs as an automotive restoration shop and workshop for artists. Partnering up with Larry Little, Paul Oberman and architect Jacek Ostoya, the Kreihbels then powered
through the daunting design/pemit/build process
in order to repurpose the building as a music venue/bar.
The result is Resident, a casual, low-key venue
for live acts, as well as spot for lingering the afternoon away. Arriving guests enter a large patio
space furnished with custom wood bench and
tables perched on a series of concrete platforms
as well as an abundance of plantlife -- a rare and
welcomed sight in the Arts District. But it’s chilly at
night… They thought of that, going long on space
heaters, but also placing heating elements under
the concrete platforms. The space serviced by a reworked Airstream bar (a nod to Tim’s considerable
restoration skills). Coffee service in on the horizon
to enhance earlier arrivals.
They are as intent on the music as they are on the
space, recruiting Duncan Smith to delivering a diverse selection of international, national and local
acts. While the vibe is relaxed they take their spirits
seriously. Both bars serve a spectrum of craft beers
as well as an impressive cocktail menu developed
by Randy Tarlow. With the Arts District changing
before our eyes, Resident has captured much of
the essence of what draws people to the area in
the first place.
Resident
428 South Hewitt Street
Los Angeles, CA 90013
(323) 316 5311
www.residentdtla.com