Almost 44 million Americans were burdened by the cost of housing in 2016. This poses a challenge to local governments and builders to find affordable safe shelter for low-income earners. One solution making a big difference is adaptive reuse. Much like recycling, reusing, and upcycling supports our environment, adaptive reuse changes old hotels into affordable housing to support our population. Here are some prime examples of how innovative hotel renovations offer affordable housing in our towns and cities. (1, 2)

Affordable Housing At Plato’s Cave

Located in Branson, Missouri, a former Days Inn offers about 170 studio and one-bedroom apartments. Dubbed Plato’s Cave, the hotel once provided housing to migrant workers in the area looking for short-term accommodations. However, the area also had a demand for affordable housing for locals. (3)

“Branson absolutely needs affordable housing for our local workers here,” says General Manager Ronda Cady. “It’s perfect timing to help these people who need another place to stay.” (3)

Plato’s Cave features highly livable spaces with modern design aesthetics that are elegant yet comfortable. Residents also have access to the former hotel’s amenities including a recreation room, clubhouse, and an in-ground outdoor pool. High security provides a safe living environment in an affordable gated community. Migrant workers still have access to housing via application for sponsorship.  (3)

Affordable Housing In Heritage Buildings

Some people feel the many impressive, historic buildings still standing in our cities do nothing more than take up prime real estate. However, while state-of-the-art architecture might add new character to a city’s skyline, it’s what lies below that often sets the tone of a community. It’s important to preserve the heritage of our towns and cities whenever we can. In fact, putting them to good use as affordable living options is a great way to kill two birds with one stone. (2)

Strathmore Apartments in Detroit, Michigan stand in the Willis-Selden Historic District. Built in 1924, The Strathmore provided short-term and long-term living options for 40 years. However, as the area went through a gentrification process the hotel was turned into an apartment building offering a share of affordable housing among the high-end units. Residents enjoy their downtown lifestyle in hand with fitness centers, beautifully decorated common areas, and energy-efficient appliances. (2)

Affordable Housing During Pandemic

Meanwhile, Plato’s Cave has adapted once more to meet local needs. It stepped up to the bat to assist those out of work due to the pandemic. “We are having a number of folks who are living with roommates for argument’s sake who now choose to live by themselves because of the virus,” said Richard Rubin, Owner of Plato’s Cave. “We charge a two hundred dollar move-in fee for the first month, half a month off their next rental, and then their full rental paid only month three. So for all those folks who’ve been furloughed, or are awaiting some form of federal funding or federal program — by all means, come live with us.” (4)

According to Rubin, more housing of this kind will begin to pop up everywhere. “I think it will become just that much more of a reality given the Covid-19 situation around the world,” he says. “I think a lot of folks are going to be shopping down because they [have] affordability problems… looking for a safe and secure place in which to live.” (4)