Santa Monica Rejects “Jenga” Design, Approves Basic Apartments for 260-Unit Project in Wilshire Neighborhood

After months of debate and controversy, Santa Monica's architectural review board has finally approved a 260-unit housing development in the Wilshire neighborhood. However, the decision came with a catch - the board rejected the original "Jenga" design concept proposed by the developer, forcing them to come up with a new design.

The project, located at 1907-1933 Wilshire Boulevard, will now be designed by Tai Architecture, a change from the original architect. The approved design will consist of eight stories and will include 26 affordable housing units, along with 21,500 square feet of ground-floor retail space.

The rejection of the "Jenga" design comes as no surprise, as many community members and officials expressed concerns over the project's aesthetics and potential impact on the neighborhood. The rejection also sheds light on the issue of developers using LLCs to conceal their identities, making it difficult for the public to hold them accountable.

In response to the rejection, the developer has stated, "We are disappointed that our original design was not approved, but we are committed to working with the city and community to create a project that everyone can be proud of."

Originally reported by The Real Deal.

https://therealdeal.com/la/2025/09/24/santa-monica-rejects-jenga-design-oks-basic-apartments/