Covering less than two square miles, Palms is one of the most densely populated neighborhoods in Los Angeles. Although a handful of single-family homes remain, the vast majority of structures are mid-rise apartment complexes that were built in the postwar years.
Two bungalows and two duplexes at 3521-3537 South Hughes Avenue could be replaced by a six-story apartment building featuring 40 units, according to a recent development application to Los Angeles City Planning. The 19,716-square-foot development site is steps away from the Palms Metro Expo light-rail station, which connects rides from Downtown Santa Monica to Downtown Los Angeles.
Dubbed Geneva @ Hughes North, the Geneva Street Partners-developed residence would be comprised of seven one-bedroom units, 23 two-bedroom units, nine three-bedroom units, and one five-bedroom unit. Four apartments would be set aside for extremely low income households in exchange for Transit Oriented Communities (TOC) incentives including reduced rear and side yard setbacks and an increase in height.
Unit layouts would be open-concept, maximizing natural light and views of the outdoors. Kitchens would boast plenty of storage space and ENERGY STAR-certified appliances, while bathrooms would be fitted with water-conserving plumbing fixtures. There would be 49 vehicle parking spaces and a bicycle storage and repair room that could accommodate up to 36 bicycles.
The lobby would front onto Hughes Avenue, complete with a rental office and mailroom. Apartments would be found on the four upper levels, each featuring a private balcony or patio. Common areas would include a community lounge, fitness center and 2,054-square-foot roof terrace boasting fire pits, dining tables, lounge chairs and planters. An additional 1,314 square feet of open space would be provided via the rear yard.
Designed by architecture, planning and development consulting firm, HBA, Geneva @ Hughes North would “[incorporate] clean lines, warm, refined materials, and an open, inviting presence,” notes the findings document. The exterior would be clad in white and gray stucco, accented with wood-look siding, dark-trimmed windows and metal mesh balcony railings.
Residents of Geneva @ Hughes North would live within walking distance of the Expo Line, Downtown Culver City and Sony Pictures Studios. The proposed apartment complex would be Geneva Street Partners’ third project in the Palms neighborhood.
