Buena Esperanza — an adaptive reuse of a blighted, two-story former Econo Lodge — provides permanent housing with onsite supportive services for 69 residents formerly or at risk of homelessness, chronically homeless with a mental health diagnosis, and veterans.

The first motel conversion under the city’s streamlined, first-of-its-kind motel conversion ordinance, Buena Esperanza became a prototype model for California’s $2.75 billion Homekey program. The conversion of this Spanish-style commercial motel featured interior and exterior modernization of an existing two-story building, including a two-story addition for leasing and onsite management offices, meeting rooms and a computer lab.

A new 1,800-square-foot community center provides a resident lounge, large community kitchen, large community pantry providing household, cleaning and personal hygiene free to residents. Fully furnished studio apartments include a kitchenette and full, private bath. Other amenities include a patio/barbecue area, laundry facilities and a community garden, along with updated landscaping, and furnished outdoor courtyards.

Buena Esperanza is designed to be GreenPoint Rated for energy efficiency. Energy-efficient apartments are equipped with ENERGY STAR appliances and lighting fixtures, and ceiling fans, helping reduce utility bills throughout property.

Judges’ Comments | The design is not only well done, it has a great story that hopefully will encourage other home building professionals to develop similar projects. A former EconoLodge got a complete facelift as a mission-style apartment building for supportive housing needs, and provides not only a great service but complements newer developments to make it feel like part of the community.