Historic Seeley’s building enters a new era after major renovation

It’s finally finished.

After six years and an $8-million restoration, the historic Seeley’s building in Glendale celebrated a grand opening Wednesday with temporary “pop-up” galleries that featured the works of more than 30 artists.

The building, located at 1800 S. Brand Blvd., was built in 1925 and underwent an Art Deco makeover in the 1940s for George Seeley and his furniture company.

But it’s been untouched for about 65 years, said Henry Priest, spokesman for the building’s owners, 1800 Brand Associates, which worked in the joint venture with the Seeley family.

The grand opening was the first time the building had been open to the public in 18 years — when Seeley’s company closed after 60 years in business.

The building now features 41 loft office units, all of which feature the exposed original brick and wood framing.

Priest said L.A.-based Live Work Lofts Inc., which manages the building, is trying to attract entertainment-related companies and firms that serve creative clients, as well as art galleries.

“We currently have around eight permanent tenants and the number keeps growing by the day,” he said.

The building’s owner plans to be part of Glendale’s GATE program, which helps create temporary exhibitions in unleased spaces to allow artists to show their work outside of a conventional gallery setting.