San Diego
Built in 1914, Hotel Churchill was renovated by the San Diego Housing Commission to create 72 furnished affordable rental studios with supportive services for homeless San Diegans.
The renovation of Hotel Churchill included a state-of-the-art seismic upgrade, with the installation of four fluid viscous dampers—large, piston-like devices that act similarly to shock absorbers in the event of an earthquake, dissipating seismic energy.
Elements of the interior renovation pay homage to Hotel Churchill’s past. The original wood and marble lobby desk was restored, as was a key slot cabinet. Hexagon-shaped tile flooring was replicated in the lobby.
A private outdoor community garden with drought-tolerant plants was created for the residents.