Los Angeles is a global hub of innovation and development, with real estate and tech industries playing key roles in shaping its vibrant economy. The city’s developers are at the forefront of some of the most exciting and impactful projects, from transforming neighborhoods to shaping the future of urban living. As the world moves toward more sustainable, tech-enabled, and mixed-use developments, Los Angeles is home to several leading developers who have left their mark not only in the city but on the global stage as well.
In this article, we will highlight the top 10 developers in Los Angeles, focusing on those who have had a significant impact both locally and internationally. These developers are known for their cutting-edge designs, forward-thinking projects, and ability to drive growth and transformation in real estate markets.
Top 10 Developers in Los Angeles and the World
1. The Related Companies
A prominent name in the global real estate industry, Related Companies is an American developer known for its luxury residential, commercial, and mixed-use properties. With a strong presence in Los Angeles, Related has developed high-profile projects such as the sprawling “The Grand LA” in downtown Los Angeles, which is set to become a landmark destination in the city.
Related’s global portfolio spans multiple cities, including New York, Miami, and London, with iconic developments like Hudson Yards in New York and Miami’s Brickell City Centre. Their focus on sustainability, cutting-edge architecture, and mixed-use spaces has set them apart in both residential and commercial development. Their ability to adapt to changing market demands while maintaining high standards of design and innovation has made them a top developer in the world.
Key Projects:
- The Grand LA (Los Angeles)
- Hudson Yards (New York)
- Brickell City Centre (Miami)
Key Features:
- Mixed-use developments
- Sustainability and green building practices
- High-end residential and commercial spaces
2. CIM Group
CIM Group is another major player in the real estate development world, with a strong presence in Los Angeles. Known for its expertise in transforming underutilized properties into thriving developments, CIM Group has contributed significantly to the revitalization of various parts of the city. Their projects often combine residential, retail, and office spaces to create vibrant mixed-use communities.
CIM’s impact extends beyond Los Angeles, with a portfolio that includes commercial and residential developments across North America, Europe, and Israel. The company’s commitment to sustainable urban design and community-focused developments has helped establish it as one of the leading developers in the world.
Key Projects:
- The Bloc (Los Angeles)
- 7th and Fig (Los Angeles)
- 3400 Wilshire (Los Angeles)
Key Features:
- Focus on urban revitalization
- Mixed-use properties with a focus on community integration
- Sustainability-driven developments
3. Trammell Crow Company
With over 70 years of experience, Trammell Crow Company is a major player in the real estate development industry. Based in Dallas, Texas, Trammell Crow operates extensively in Los Angeles, where it develops large-scale commercial and residential properties. The company specializes in office buildings, retail centers, and mixed-use developments.
Trammell Crow is part of the Crow Holdings group, which has a rich legacy of creating high-value real estate across the globe. The company’s expertise lies in developing sustainable, high-performance properties that meet the evolving needs of businesses and residents alike. Their diverse portfolio and ability to adapt to the latest trends in architecture and urban planning have solidified their place as one of the top developers in Los Angeles and the world.
Key Projects:
- The Shops at Santa Monica (Los Angeles)
- The Met (Los Angeles)
- Lakewood Center (Los Angeles)
Key Features:
- Large-scale commercial and residential developments
- Focus on sustainable construction practices
- Diverse global portfolio
4. Hines
Hines is a renowned international real estate development firm with a significant presence in Los Angeles. As one of the largest real estate firms in the world, Hines specializes in the development, acquisition, and management of residential, office, and mixed-use properties. The firm is known for its commitment to creating spaces that are environmentally sustainable and technologically advanced.
Hines is involved in some of Los Angeles’ most iconic developments, including the massive Metropolis project in downtown LA, which consists of multiple residential towers, retail spaces, and office buildings. The company’s global portfolio includes developments in cities like London, Tokyo, and Dubai, making Hines a major force in real estate development worldwide.
Key Projects:
- Metropolis (Los Angeles)
- 333 South Hope Street (Los Angeles)
- Salesforce Tower (San Francisco)
Key Features:
- Expertise in urban developments
- Sustainability and technology-driven designs
- High-end office and residential spaces
5. Lendlease
Lendlease is an international property and infrastructure group with a significant presence in Los Angeles. The company is known for delivering large-scale, complex projects that integrate residential, commercial, and public spaces. Their focus on sustainability and creating vibrant, mixed-use communities makes them a top choice for urban development in major cities around the world.
Lendlease has completed high-profile projects in Los Angeles, such as the development of the famous LA LIVE entertainment complex, which has transformed downtown Los Angeles into a bustling hub of dining, entertainment, and residential living. The company’s expertise extends across various sectors, including urban regeneration, green building, and public-private partnerships.
Key Projects:
- LA LIVE (Los Angeles)
- The Peninsula (Sydney)
- Barangaroo South (Sydney)
Key Features:
- Focus on large-scale urban regeneration
- Mixed-use developments with sustainability at the core
- Public-private partnership expertise
6. The Walt Disney Company
Though traditionally known for its entertainment empire, The Walt Disney Company is also a major player in real estate development, particularly in Los Angeles. Disney’s involvement in urban development has been driven by its efforts to create immersive, mixed-use environments that combine residential, commercial, and entertainment spaces.
One of Disney’s notable developments is the Anaheim Resort District, which includes the Disneyland Resort and other surrounding properties. Disney’s approach to development is unique in that it blends entertainment with urban living, creating spaces that are both functional and engaging. The company’s real estate developments continue to shape the landscape of Southern California and beyond.
Key Projects:
- Disneyland Resort (Anaheim)
- Disney California Adventure (Anaheim)
- The Walt Disney Studios Lot (Burbank)
Key Features:
- Integration of entertainment and urban living
- Mixed-use developments with a focus on experience
- Large-scale resort and theme park developments
7. The Hanover Company
The Hanover Company is a Texas-based developer known for its focus on luxury multifamily developments. In Los Angeles, the company has become known for creating high-end residential communities that blend modern design with urban convenience. Hanover’s developments often include a mix of apartments, amenities, and retail spaces that cater to the modern city dweller.
Hanover is particularly well-regarded for its attention to detail in design and construction. Their projects often feature sustainable building practices, high-quality finishes, and thoughtful layouts. With developments in cities across the U.S. and beyond, Hanover is a prominent player in luxury real estate development.
Key Projects:
- Hanover on Sunset (Los Angeles)
- Hanover West Hollywood (Los Angeles)
- Hanover Montgomery (Washington D.C.)
Key Features:
- Focus on luxury multifamily developments
- High-end design and construction
- Sustainable and modern residential spaces
8. Tishman Construction
Tishman Construction is one of the oldest and most reputable construction and development firms in the U.S. They have completed high-profile projects in Los Angeles, including major office buildings, cultural centers, and mixed-use developments. As part of the AECOM family, Tishman has access to a vast array of resources that enable them to deliver complex projects with precision and expertise.
Tishman is recognized for its ability to manage large-scale projects while ensuring quality and adherence to timelines. Their work in Los Angeles includes developments that have transformed the city’s skyline and infrastructure, making them a top contender in the global real estate development arena.
Key Projects:
- LA County Museum of Art (Los Angeles)
- The Wilshire Grand Center (Los Angeles)
- The Federal Reserve Bank Building (New York)
Key Features:
- Large-scale commercial and cultural developments
- Expertise in managing complex projects
- Global reach with a focus on quality construction
9. Brookfield Properties
Brookfield Properties is a real estate developer and operator with a significant footprint in Los Angeles. The company’s portfolio includes office buildings, retail centers, and mixed-use developments. Brookfield Properties is committed to creating spaces that foster community interaction, sustainability, and innovative design.
In Los Angeles, Brookfield has been instrumental in the development of major properties in the downtown area, such as the Wells Fargo Center and the Bank of America Plaza. The company’s developments focus on enhancing the urban experience, with an emphasis on creating environments that are both functional and aesthetically appealing.
Key Projects:
- Wells Fargo Center (Los Angeles)
- Bank of America Plaza (Los Angeles)
- Brookfield Place (New York)
Key Features:
- Focus on community-oriented developments
- Large-scale office and mixed-use projects
- Strong presence in major urban markets
10. SHoP Architects
SHoP Architects, though primarily known for its architectural design, is deeply involved in the development process, particularly in urban settings like Los Angeles. The firm is known for its innovative approach to design, often blending technology with sustainability to create striking and functional buildings. SHoP’s approach to real estate development focuses on creating spaces that are modern, efficient, and socially responsible.
In Los Angeles, SHoP has been involved in several high-profile developments, particularly in the tech and creative sectors. Their work has helped shape the city’s architectural landscape, contributing to the growing trend of tech-forward, sustainable urban design.
Key Projects:
- 111 W. 57th Street (New York)
- 30th Street Tower (Los Angeles)
- The Cactus Building (Los Angeles)
Key Features:
- Innovative and sustainable design
- Focus on technology-driven architecture
- High-profile projects in urban areas
Conclusion
The developers listed above represent the best in the industry, not only in Los Angeles but around the world. These companies have contributed to the transformation of urban landscapes, offering innovative, sustainable, and high-quality developments that serve the evolving needs of residents, businesses, and communities. By leading the charge in architectural design, green building practices, and mixed-use developments, these developers are shaping the future of cities and creating spaces that will stand the test of time.
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