LA Mayoral Candidate Nithya Raman Faces Scrutiny Over Plans to Demolish Historic Silver Lake Home for Larger Residence
Los Angeles mayoral candidate Nithya Raman is facing criticism for her plans to demolish her historic 1948 Silver Lake home and replace it with a larger, three-story mansion. City records indicate that Raman, along with her husband Vali Chandrasekaran, intends to increase the home's living space by 88%, from 1,879 square feet to 3,528.3 square feet, to include a spa and a two-car garage. This development has drawn negative reactions from neighbors and housing activists, who point to the discrepancy between Raman's public advocacy for affordable housing and her personal real estate decisions. Her current home is listed as a 'contributor' to the Silver Lake Residential Historic District, meaning it helps define the neighborhood's historic character, although this designation does not prevent demolition. Raman's financial disclosures show substantial investments and income, further fueling the debate.