A Seattle-based real estate development firm has filed plans with the City of Los Angeles to construct an infill housing project in Downtown’s South Park neighborhood.

The proposed development, slated to replace a single-story building at 1317 S. Grand Avenue, calls for the construction of an eight-story edifice featuring 151 micro-unit apartments – averaging approximately 325 square feet in size – with no on-site parking.

The developer, Housing Diversity Corporation, is entitling the project with Transit Oriented Communities affordable housing incentives, allowing for relief from certain zoning restrictions in exchange for setting aside apartments as subsidized low-income housing. However, due to the small size of the proposed apartments, even non-subsidized apartments are expected to rent for below-market rates, according to a project representative.

“Our proposal serves to bring greater housing options and access to a vibrant urban environment that can benefit from preserving or increasing socioeconomic diversity,” said Brad Padden, founder of Housing Diversity Corporation in a statement. “We look forward to continuing to work closely with the City to responsibly deliver a project that adds value to the community in many forms.”

The podium-type building is being designed by Downtown-based architecture firm Steinberg Hart, and is depicted in renderings as a contemporary mid-rise structure wrapped with cantilevered balconies. Plans call for approximately 10,000 square feet of on-site open space, including a rooftop deck and ground-floor work space.

“We have a deep understanding of the complex issues facing Los Angeles’ housing market and are committed to leveraging this knowledge to partner with innovative developers like Housing Diversity Corporation on truly unique projects that help to expand attainable housing for the missing middle,” said Simon Ha, Managing Partner for Los Angeles and Urban Mixed-Use practice leader at Steinberg Hart.

Other partners in the project include OZ Navigator and STS Construction Services.

The proposed project is one of several housing developments now planned or under construction to the south of Pico Boulevard in South Park, joining FMB Development’s Ayala apartments and Jade Enterprise’ Emerald mixed-use complex.

Housing Diversity Corporation's project site also abuts a collection of small commercial buildings that are slated to give way for a 28-story apartment tower.