Hancock Park is one of Los Angeles’s oldest and most well-preserved neighborhoods, known for its large, elegant homes often embodying the Spanish Revival, English Tudor, and other architectural styles popular during the 1920’s era. The development of Hancock Park as a residential area was largely driven by the growth of Los Angeles in the early 20th century, attracting affluent residents with its grand homes and wide, tree-lined streets. The neighborhood's historic and architectural significance is reflected in the preservation of its character. To the north edge of the site is abutted by a home designed by A. Quincy Jones.

Before its development into a residential neighborhood and public park, the area was part of the Rancho La Brea, a Mexican land grant. In the early 20th century, the discovery of the fossils led to scientific excavations, which have continued to the present day. The Hancock Park development was later planned around the La Brea Tar Pits, which have been preserved as a scientific and educational resource.

Climatically, Los Angeles experiences Mediterranean weather patterns characterized by mild, wet winters and hot, dry summers which necessitates water and energy efficiency measures.

The building site is located at the end of a cul-de-sac and is almost entirely enclosed along four sides with the exception of the driveway. Only 50% of the existing home was renovated to minimize environmental impact through adaptive re-use and adhere to historic preservation guidelines.