The Weingart Greenleaf project in Whittier, California demonstrates how creativity and appropriate funding can breathe new life into a building, providing comfortable landing spaces for the formerly unsheltered. Uniquely, this project is a remodel of a remodel, a third edition for the mid-twentieth-century structure.
Originally constructed in 1968 as an industrial building, the structure was remodeled in 1985 into an inwardly focused motel, changing hands and names over the years. In 2024, the property was annexed from unincorporated Los Angeles County into the City of Whittier.
Spearheaded by the Weingart Center Association in partnership with Los Angeles County, the project was funded by LA’s Project Homekey. This program makes grant funding from the state Department of Housing and Community Development available to cities, counties, housing authorities, tribal entities, and other local public entities to acquire and convert hotels, motels, multi-family apartments, and more into permanent or interim housing.
Ware Malcomb’s architecture, civil engineering, and building measurement services teams collaborated for the conversion of this two-story, 102-room motel to 100 fully furnished studio apartments for formerly unsheltered individuals plus one manager’s unit. Interior design services were included for office and community spaces to support residents and on-site services including case management, financial counseling, and employment support. Each unit is fully furnished, including an in-unit kitchen, television, and a private bathroom. Resident amenities include a dog run area, bicycle storage, and laundry facilities.
