Los Angeles Developer Advocates for Mixed-Use Projects to Enhance City Living
Praxis Development Group, a Los Angeles-based firm, is championing mixed-use developments as a key strategy for creating more vibrant and accessible neighborhoods, addressing the city’s ongoing housing challenges.
Founded in 2019 by Kacy Keys, Praxis focuses on partnering with landowners to reduce development costs, and currently has projects underway across Southern California, including The Clark on 54th in Crenshaw and 1601 Vine. Keys, reflecting on a recent month spent in London, emphasized the convenience of having essential amenities within walking distance, stating, “That’s the beauty of mixed-use development. It’s about designing neighborhoods that blend residential, commercial and community spaces so people can meet their daily needs locally.” This approach aligns with the concept of the “15-minute city,” aiming to provide residents access to necessities within a short walk or bike ride.
Keys highlighted the importance of robust public transportation and pedestrian infrastructure to support these developments, noting that without it, projects risk becoming isolated despite their design. “L.A.’s transit and bikeway systems still lag far behind cities like London, New York, Tokyo and Mexico City,” she said, adding that reliable transportation is crucial for residents to fully benefit from mixed-use living. The firm’s project, The Clark on 54th, exemplifies a commitment to mixed-income and mixed-use design, a strategy Keys believes avoids the pitfalls of homogenous housing developments, referencing the failures of projects like Pruitt-Igoe in St. Louis. You can learn more about urban planning initiatives at the American Planning Association.
Praxis prioritizes creating a sense of “home” within its projects, focusing on livable unit sizes and thoughtful design, while also balancing financial feasibility. Keys stated the firm’s goal is to create places “where people want to live, not just sleep,” and that diverse communities are not only socially valuable but also make better investments. This approach is particularly relevant as Los Angeles continues to grapple with a severe housing shortage and seeks innovative solutions to improve quality of life for its residents; a recent report by the Los Angeles Economic Development Corporation details the growing need for diverse housing options.
Officials at Praxis Development Group say they will continue to advocate for policies that support mixed-use development and investment in public infrastructure to create more connected and livable communities throughout Los Angeles.
