Pioneers

‘Downtown is urban-gritty, the antithesis of Universal CityWalk.’

Richard W. Thompson/58/director of urban design and planning for A.C. Martin Partners, Inc.

> vital stats: 1,400-square-foot loft is former captain’s quarters and firefighters’ ready room of Engine Company No. 17.

> previous digs: 1920s duplex apartment in Los Feliz.

> on loft living: “High ceiling spaces with lots of light for a great price.”

> good news/bad news: “People are tired of all the homogeneity--a Starbucks and Gap store on every corner.”

“Absence of conveniences--a Trader Joe’s would be nice.”

> hot spots: Roark Graphics on Boyd Street for custom acrylics.

It’s a Wrap on 7th Street for caffe Americano.

Maguire Gardens at 5th and Hope.

“I grab a hot dog and sit by the fountain.”

Paul Dimeo/43/carpenter/actor

Kelly Canterbury Dimeo/39/decorative painter

> vital stats: 2,000-square-foot loft is former firefighters’ barracks in Engine Company No. 17, built in 1927.

> previous digs: Loft in Williamsburg, Brooklyn, N.Y.

> on loft living: “You can always re-create the loft space . . . I’m forever experimenting with different faux-finish techniques on the walls.’--K.C.D.

> good news/bad news: “You can buy an 18-foot-tall Christmas tree.”--P.D.

“You have to garden in pots instead of earth.”--P.D.

> hot spots: Michael Levine on Maple Avenue. “Glittery fabrics at a bargain.”

Traxx restaurant at Union Station. “We love the Art Deco ambience and the hustle-bustle.”

Flower Market at 8th and Wall. “An armful of sunflowers costs $10.”

Grant BReding/35/director of retail operations/the Moca Stores

> vital stats: 3,000-square-foot loft is in a former paint factory.

> previous digs: Modern home in Laguna Beach.

> on loft living: “It’s very peaceful here. I find sitting in my living room and watching cars go by on the freeway a meditative experience.”

> good news/bad news: “I’m five minutes away from my job.”

“The human tragedy. Not all my neighbors are as glamorous as I am.”

> hot spots: Footland Sport on South Los Angeles Street. “They have these amazing sneakers.”

Oomasa in the Japanese Village Plaza Mall. “Fresh sushi in a cute interior.”

Score Bar’s midnight drag queen show on Friday and Saturday. “One performer with five of her cousins give it their all on a 5-by-5-foot stage.”