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.
