Construction is underway for a large senior living complex in Warner Center, developer South Bay Partners announced earlier this month.

The project, which is a joint venture with LAMB Properties and Columbia Pacific Advisors, will rise at 6233 Variel Avenue.  The eight-story building, called The Variel, will include 215 independent living units, 94 assisted living units, and 27 memory care units in addition to structure parking.  Plans also call for several on-site restaurants, as well as amenities such as a swimming pool, a gym, a yoga studio, two theaters, and courtyard areas.

"We have nearly three decades of senior living development experience, but THE VARIEL is our first foray into Southern California," said Patrick McGonigle, President for South Bay Partners, Inc. in a news release. "We're taking this opportunity to push the envelope and create a clean, contemporary and upscale aesthetic in an approachable, comfortable residential environment."

VTBS Architects is designing the mid-rise structure in coordination with Rodrigo Vargas Design.

W.E. O'Neil Construction is The Variel's general contractor.

South Bay Partners estimates that in addition to housing more than 200 independent living residents, the project will also employ roughly 170 people.

Occupancy is expected in Winter 2021.

The Variel could soon be followed by other large senior living developments in the Warner Center area.

Less than one mile south, Speiker Senior Development Partners is planning a 695-unit complex on a roughly 17-acre site at Canoga Avenue and Burbank Boulevard.

A block east on De Soto Avenue, a seven-story building with 190 senior housing units could replace an industrial building.

While The Variel is South Bay Partners' first Los Angeles area development, it is not their only project planned in the region.  Just west of Century City, the Texas-based company is planning a 192-unit senior living complex called The Bellwood.