About Westwood Village

Westwood Village is Los Angeles' premiere village centre - centrally located in the heart of Los Angeles, serving the neighborhoods of Bel Air, Holmby Hills, Wilshire Corridor, Brentwood, Pacific Palisades, Beverly Hills, West Hollywood and Santa Monica.  This charming and unique area displays a rich history recognizable by its architecturally significant buildings, many of which were built in the 30's and 40's.  Architectural styles include New Orleans Revival, American Colonial Revival, Mediterranean, Spanish Colonial Revival, Period Revival, Post-war Modern, French Regency, and Classical Revival.

Historic Westwood Village is being revitalized with a unique collection of retail offerings, galleries and restaurants that will cater to all of Los Angeles but most especially to its area residents.

Westwood Village enjoys its proximity to densely populated and wealthy communities with household incomes averaging $113,379 within a 3-mile radius.

Built in 1928, Westwood Village was conceived and built by the Janus family as a retail village.  Its charming streets and architecture offer some of the finest environments for retailing in Los Angeles.

Many original tenants remain in the village, such as the single screen theatres and Stan's Donuts which add to the allure of Westwood Village as a charming destination.

History of Westwood Village

The Spanish explorer Gaspar de Portola visited this area in 1769. On Sept. 4, 1781, “El Pueblo de Nuestra Señora la Reina de Los Angeles,” meaning “The Village of Our Lady, the Queen of the Angels” was founded by the Mexican provincial governor, Filipe de Neve.  "Queen of the Angels" was the capital of the Mexican province, Alta California, until its surrender to the United States in 1847. Mexico ceded California to the United States, and Los Angeles was incorporated as a city in 1850.

Westwood Village finds its beginnings in development and construction provided by the Janss family. Architecture of note in the village is a combination of Art Deco and Mediterranean-revival architecture.