The Top 4 Historic Lofts in Long Beach: A Buyer's Guide

By David Hernandez | Long Beach Loft Specialist | Last Updated: February 16, 2026

The Quick Answer

Long Beach has a rich history of adaptive reuse. The "Big Four" historic buildings that define the DTLB loft market are The Walker Building (the luxury heavyweight), The Temple Lofts (the quiet sanctuary), The Kress Lofts (the raw industrial), and The Ebell (the boutique architectural gem).

Downtown Long Beach (DTLB) is often called "LA by the Sea" because it combines genuine city density with ocean breezes. But for loft lovers, it is a treasure trove of 1920s architecture reborn as modern living spaces.

Here is my breakdown of the buildings that define the neighborhood.

1. The Walker Building (115 W 4th St)

The Heavyweight Champion

Originally a department store built in 1929, the Walker Building is arguably the most prestigious address in DTLB.

• The Vibe: Massive, solid, and luxurious.

• Key Features: towering concrete mushroom columns, a rooftop deck with 360-degree ocean views, and subterranean parking.

• Best For: Buyers who want the "New York" penthouse feel just blocks from the beach.

2. The Temple Lofts (835 Locust Ave)

The Historic Sanctuary

This former Masonic Temple is unique because it feels like a fortress.

• The Vibe: Quiet, mysterious, and grand.

• Key Features: It’s strictly residential (no retail below), meaning it’s quieter than Pine Ave lofts. Units often feature exposed brick and unique layouts.

• Best For: Professionals who want loft aesthetics but value privacy and silence.

3. Kress Lofts (100 W 5th St)

The Raw Industrial

Located in the heart of the action, the Kress building is for the purist.

• The Vibe: Authentic and gritty (in a good way).

• Key Features: One of the best Mills Act buildings in the city, offering significant tax savings. It features raw brick walls and an open atrium.

• Best For: Creatives and investors looking for tax advantages and a true "blank canvas."

4. The Ebell Lofts (1100 E 3rd St)

The Boutique Gem

Located on the edge of the downtown residential district, the Ebell was formerly a women's social club and theater.

• The Vibe: Intimate and architectural.

• Key Features: With only 11 units, it is incredibly exclusive. The architecture is Spanish Revival meets industrial.

• Best For: Buyers who hate "big box" condo complexes and want something truly one-of-a-kind.

Comparison: DTLB Building Matrix

Ready to tour these historic icons?

Inventory in the Walker and Ebell is incredibly low. You need an agent who watches the "Coming Soon" list daily.

Contact David Hernandez to schedule a private tour of Long Beach’s best vertical living.