Troubled Chicago Hotel Transforms Into Supportive Housing

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A troubled hotel has been transformed into a model supportive housing development for people with disabilities and mental illness who are at risk of homelessness.

The city of Chicago acquired the Dip­lomat Hotel for $1 from its owner, who had amassed a series of code violations. That soon opened the door for Brinshore Development and Thresholds, a noted service provider, to remake the 87-year-old building into something special.

“Buffett Place serves the most vulnerable segment of our city with housing that incorporates so many creative initiatives and ideas that convey a sense of respect and dignity for our residents,” says Richard Sciortino, president of Brinshore.

For example, the ground floor features a Thresholds-owned flower shop that serves as an on-site job training program. Residents, including several who moved from institutions, also have access to counseling and other vital services at the $15 million development.

The extensive renovation included reconfiguring the floor plan to reduce 91 SRO units to 51 studio apartments. Buffett Place, which has a solar thermal water system and green roof, is a project-based Sec. 8 development.


About the Author

Donna Kimura

Donna Kimura is deputy editor of Affordable Housing Finance. She has covered the industry for more than 20 years. Before that, she worked at an Internet company and several daily newspapers. Connect with Donna at dkimura@questex.com or follow her @DKimura_AHF.

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