Adaptive Reuse Apartments in San Francisco: 3 Cool Retrofitting Projects

Are you on the lookout for a one-of-a-kind place to live? Or perhaps you’re a Gen Z renter keen on making sustainable choices when it comes to apartment living? Either way, apartments from adaptive reuse projects could be just what you’re looking for.

Before we go any further, you should know that adaptive reuse projects are all about turning outdated buildings into modern spaces, mostly rental apartments. Besides being eco-friendly, they also offer renters the opportunity to live in a piece of history: Many of these revamped buildings keep their unique architectural features and old-world charm that you just don’t see in ground-up constructions. Plus, they’re often situated in prime urban locations, close to public transit, parks, schools, shopping, dining and entertainment.

Now, let’s delve into three unique adaptive reuse projects in San Francisco. Whether it’s a converted hotel or an old office building, these revamped properties offer a one-of-a-kind living experience right in the heart of the city.

229 Ellis: A century-old office building found new life through adaptive reuse

Situated at 229 Ellis St., just a stone’s throw from Union Square in the heart of San Francisco, an old office building originally constructed in 1910 has been completely transformed. Previously home to the San Francisco Turkish Baths until the 1980s, the building sat empty for about a decade after the baths shut down and was later used as medical offices. Then, in 2018, a development company took over the property and began converting it into a co-living apartment community with 58 units.

The revamped building skillfully blends its historical architecture with modern interiors, making it a sought-after residence for urban dwellers. The façade features masonry work and is divided into three bays with arched windows that are reminiscent of Roman baths, illuminating the upper part of the first floor. Decorative roundels display the star and crescent moon, which are symbols associated with Turkey.

Due to strict permitting rules and neighborhood groups pushing against new developments, building new apartments in San Francisco has become notoriously slow. And, as more and more newcomers keep moving into the city in search of better opportunities, renters are squeezed into existing spaces, often sharing bathrooms and even renting out living rooms as makeshift bedrooms. So, the renovation of 229 Ellis is just one of the most recent examples of apartments created through adaptive reuse in a city that has been grappling with a shortage of housing for years now.

The Diva: A historic hotel that got a modern makeover

At 440 Geary St., the old Diva Hotel built back in 1986 has been converted into a cool new spot with 122 apartments. Completed in 2023, The Diva redevelopment is a prime example of how retrofitting old buildings can rejuvenate neighborhoods and tackle the pressing need for more housing: The seven-story hotel has been switched up into permanent supportive housing for people transitioning from homelessness.

Located in the Downtown/Civic Center neighborhood, The Diva offers easy access to shops, restaurants, and entertainment, making it perfect for anyone who loves having everything within walking distance. Plus, it’s really easy to get around the city from there because there are great transit options nearby.

The building’s past life as a hotel gives it a cool twist that you don’t find just anywhere. This mix of modern comforts with a dash of history makes The Diva Redevelopment a standout choice for renters looking for a lively, convenient place to call home in San Francisco.

50 8th Street: Rejuvenating the legacy of the Bristol Hotel

One of the most anticipated adaptive reuse projects in San Francisco is the conversion of the Bristol Hotel at 50 8th St. in the South of Market (SoMa) neighborhood. Built back in 1969, this iconic spot is awaiting city approvals for a major makeover, with part of the building converted into affordable apartments. Once completed, the revamped property will still work as a hotel while also offering a one-of-a-kind place to live right in the middle of one of San Francisco’s up-and-coming areas, close to cultural spots and public transit.

Living here means you’re just a hop, skip, and a jump away from some of the best arts and entertainment the city has to offer. With added amenities and updated interiors, renters here are sure to enjoy modern comforts while soaking in the building’s rich history.

Adaptive reuse projects like those at 229 Ellis, The Diva, and the upcoming 50 8th St. offer more than just converted apartments in San Francisco. They provide a bridge between the city’s rich past and its dynamic future. For those interested in adaptive reuse apartments, these projects represent a unique opportunity to inhabit spaces that are not only residential units but pieces of history transformed for modern use.