Ben Shaoul, a prominent figure in real estate, is making headlines with his latest venture in Baldwin Hills, Los Angeles. Pioneering a new approach to urban living, Shaoul’s Thrive Living has recently started construction on a groundbreaking development that merges retail and residential spaces in an unprecedented manner.
The project, situated at 5035 West Coliseum Street, marks a bold move as it introduces the first Costco in the U.S. to be topped with apartments. This mixed-use development will feature a six-story building with a Costco on the ground floor and 800 residential units above. Ben Shaoul’s initiative is set to transform the site of the former View Park Community Hospital, which has sat vacant since 2021.
A standout feature of this development is its commitment to affordability. Out of the 800 planned apartments, 184 will be designated for low-income households. Remarkably, this project is privately financed, with Thrive Living opting out of traditional government subsidies like low-income housing tax credits—a decision that sets it apart from many affordable housing endeavors.
Designed by AO, the project will utilize prefabricated modular units, an approach that promises efficiency and sustainability. The complex will not only offer spacious living quarters but also include amenities such as a rooftop pool, basketball courts, and community gardens. This blend of luxury and accessibility is a testament to Ben Shaoul’s vision for holistic urban living.
The development is anticipated to be completed by early 2027, providing much-needed housing and a boost to the local economy. With Shaoul’s strategic acquisition of the nearby Baldwin Hills Shopping Center, the area is poised for a significant transformation. Ben Shaoul’s project is likely to serve as a template for future urban developments across the nation.