Affordable mixed-use housing complex completes in South Los Angeles

A new 74-unit, mixed-use affordable housing development for families has recently completed at the southwest corner of Central Avenue and Jefferson Boulevard in Los Angeles.

Designed by KFA, The Florence Mills Apartments rises four stories and was designed with a zig-zag plan to create many angles offering views to the street and a sense of openness that celebrates the corner site. Named in honor of Florence Mills, a Black vaudeville singer, dancer, and actress, the project features two large murals of Mills on the outside of the building on prominent street-facing walls.

Florence Mills Apartments exterior

The project includes 13 one-bedroom units, 37 two-bedroom units, and 24 three-bedroom units. Every unit has a balcony and large windows. Amenities include community and common areas, underground parking, four laundry rooms, and secure access to the building. Additionally, the project features 5,000 sf of commercial retail space that fronts the corner plaza with roll up doors.

Florence Mills Exterior facade

Units will be restricted to households at the low-, very low-, and extremely low-income levels, with rents set between $507 and $1,171 per month.

The Florence Mills Apartments is expecting to achieve LEED Platinum certification.

Florence Mills Apartments mural

Bold cantilevered designs are prevalent today, as developers and architects strive to maximize space, views, and natural light in buildings. Cantilevered structures, however, present a host of challenges for building teams, according to José R. Rivera, PE, Associate Principal and Director of Plumbing and Fire Protection with Lilker.