DGA Residential, along with community leaders and project partners, officially broke ground Nov. 4 on Riella at Oakwood, a 170-unit multi-generational affordable housing community at the former St. Mary’s Hospital site that will include multifamily units and townhomes, plus the renovated historic hospital, which will prioritize housing for seniors.
The North Knoxville development at 1880 Huron St. will transform the historic 96-year-old hospital building into 40 one-bedroom units with modern finishes and washer and dryer hookups. The former hospital opened in 1930 and closed in 2018. The historic building’s wider hallways will help accommodate wheelchair access, and elevators will allow easier movement to all floors. Contractors hope to preserve as many historic features as possible, including a Tennessee marble architectural niche, a prominent cross at the roofline and marble lobby flooring.
“We designed Riella at Oakwood to transform these 5.5 acres into a multigenerational community that serves residents while complementing the neighborhood’s character,” said Craig Cobb, president of development for DGA Residential. “We are committed to creating quality affordable housing where people of different ages can enjoy a vibrant community.”…