Designed by Irvine-based architectural firm Ware Malcomb, theconversion involved seismically retrofitting the one-story buildingand installing new electrical and HVAC systems. In addition, thefacility's interior was turned into 4,000 sf of office space and39,000 sf of optics manufacturing space, including coating,polishing, testing labs, clean rooms, machine shop andshipping/receiving.

Built in 1969, the rehabbed facility is located at 1931 DeereAve. It was renovated by Costa-Mesa based general contractor HowardBuilding Corp.

Renovations continue to be a hot trend in the Southland'scommercial real estate market, especially since buildable lots andinvestment dollars continue to be scarce in these lean economictimes. Industry experts explain that renovations can often saveboth time and money, as existing buildings usually have all thenecessary permits and meet the majority of the zoningrequirements.