Strong neighborhoods are built through thoughtful partnerships, long-term investments and housing that meet the real needs of its residents. That is exactly what John Grace Arms represents in Southfield.
Through a $12.25 million construction loan, Huntington Bank is helping bring new purpose to John Grace School, transforming the historic property into an affordable senior housing community located at 21030 Indian Street in Southfield. The former elementary school opened in 1921 as Southfield Township’s first modern educational facility, replacing a one-room schoolhouse. Expanded over time, the school closed in 1980, became a library and community center from 1985 to 2017, and has been vacant since. It was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 2023.
Rendering of new John Grace Arms development; photo credit to MiSide
“The John Grace Arms project represents a unique opportunity to preserve Southfield’s heritage while addressing senior housing needs,” said City of Southfield Mayor Kenson Siver. “It is a blend of historic preservation, sustainable development, adaptive reuse and community-focused design making it a model for future projects. I look forward to witnessing the successful transformation of the John Grace School into a thriving senior housing community.”
The development is being refurbished as part of a public-private initiative in partnership with MiSide, Cinnaire and the Southfield Nonprofit Neighborhood Corporation, with additional support from non-profit agencies and for-profit partners. When complete, it will create 60 rental apartments for residents age 62 and older, while preserving the character of a landmark asset and bringing new life to a building with deep community roots.
Huntington’s investment was made through its Community Impact Capital group, which is dedicated to improving quality of life in low- to moderate-income communities. CIC works with public and private partners, including local, state and federal resources, to help bring developments together.
“Housing is far more than just a roof over your head,” said Ron Konstantinovsky, director of lending, Huntington Community Impact Capital group. “It is part of a broader vision for community, where new developments help residents stay rooted while revitalizing local neighborhoods and economies.”
The construction of new and renovated properties shows what is possible when partners come together to address a community’s need and invest in people, not buildings. For residents, it means more than a place to live. It means staying connected, supported and part of the community they call home.
“John Grace Arms is about creating more than housing—it’s about helping preserve a place that means something to the community and reimagining it as a safe, welcoming home for seniors,” said Sean de Four, MiSide President & CEO. “We’re honored to be part of bringing new life to this former school and creating affordable apartments where residents can feel comfortable, respected and connected.”
