Given that the whole country is at the epicenter of a major recession, it’s not surprising that trend-sensitive night clubs have much shorter life-span than ever before. Prior to the economic downturn venues had a minimum livelihood of 2 to 3 years before any re-branding was necessary. Now venues go through remodels and face-lifts more often than Beverly Hills housewives. Perfect example would be the recent re-launch of H.wood which was previously named Stork. The space is located in the Hollywood Highland’s complex and under the management of Loyal Pennings (who also owns LAX which is famous for Banana Split Sundays where DJ AM spins). The original concept of the space was to be ultra exclusive hide-out for the celebrities in L.A. It turns out it was too exclusive because no one knew about the club. Anyhow, less than a year the venue Stork has been transformed to H.wood, a place where despite the name is suppose to be less Hollywood and more simply a chill and relax lounge/bar for artists and “really cool” people that don’t do velvet ropes. I guess if one extreme don’t work why not go completely the other direction. The area is designed with assorted leather-worn furniture, rustic lights, assorted board games, etc. Although the venue claims to be a bar/lounge it seems that they’re already going the promotion route by bringing on select promoters on throughout the week nights. It remains to be seen if this concept will have a longer shelf life than its predecessor Stork. I wouldn’t hold my breath.

H.wood
1738 N. Orange
Los Angeles, CA 90028
323-462-3663