Former Hospital Site Takes on New Life in Inglewood

In just a few days’ time, Inglewood, CA will host what some argue is the biggest sporting event of the year – the Super Bowl. But prior to the invigorating revitalization that SoFi Stadium has brought to the City, WHA has been a part of a few projects that have shaped future development here, most recently with Grace Park.

This site, located north of the stadium at Grace Avenue and North Prairie Avenue, was the former estate of Daniel Freeman – the founder of the City of Inglewood. He and his family lived on the property until the 1950s when his daughter passed away and left the estate and mansion to the Sisters of St. Joseph of Carondelet with the provision they use it to build a hospital. The hospital developed the grounds but preserved the former mansion to hold classes. However, this was eventually demolished to expand the Daniel Freeman Hospital, which was operational until 2007 when it closed.

WHA was initially approached to help with this site’s redevelopment in 2013. Working with the initial developer Shopoff, the site was originally approved for 329 units with a mix of single-family homes, townhomes, and flats. After approval, the site was sold to Harridge Development Group who asked WHA to adjust the product types to focus on single family homes while keeping as close to the original framework as possible.

Grace Park offers three unique single family home types surrounding a central recreation area featuring a heritage Moreton Bay Fig tree that is over 130 years old. This iconic tree helps anchor the gated community and offers a focal point for residents entering the site. A main loop road provides enhanced pedestrian and vehicular connectivity.
In addition to providing planning and design work during entitlements, WHA worked with Pulte to bring two of the products to fruition. Both product lines feature an eclectic mix of architectural styles that reflect the City’s past, present, and future.

Parallel at Grace Park is comprised of 45 detached townhome-style units. These two- and three-story floor plans range in size from 1,564 – 2,409 SF with 3 bedrooms. Located within the middle of the site, the homes live off green courts and paseos connecting to the main rec area and have low-maintenance private yard areas and decks.

Icon at Grace Park is a collection of 60 detached single family motor court homes. These homes are located along the western and southern property lines against the existing single family neighborhood. The clusters of motor courts create “neighborhoods within the neighborhood” as the homes are oriented and relate to one another. Featuring four distinct floorplans that range from 2,213 – 2,572 SF, these three-story homes offer 3-4 bedrooms, flexible living spaces, and private rear yards.

While both these products are sold out, stay tuned for future work WHA does to continue furthering the legacy of this area. In the meantime, enjoy the Super Bowl!