Ascent

Ascent transforms the former Airport Inn motel in Buena Park into permanent supportive housing for individuals transitioning out of homelessness. Designed by ADC for Jamboree Housing Corporation, the project rehabilitated two existing two-story motel buildings and introduced a new one-story leasing and resident-services building, converting an underperforming property into a permanent residential community.

The 0.78-acre community contains 58 residences, including 57 studio apartments dedicated to supportive housing. The studios range from approximately 268 to 331 square feet and are complemented by shared spaces and on-site services intended to support long-term housing stability. Residents have access to a community center, fitness space, laundry facilities, storage, a community garden, and other support services.

ADC’s design reworked both the interior and exterior of the existing motel structures to move the property away from its former transient character and establish a more contemporary residential identity. New landscaping, gathering areas, and outdoor amenities help create a stronger sense of community, with features including an outdoor kitchen, dog run, fitness equipment, bike parking, and recreation areas.

Completed in 2022, Ascent demonstrates how adaptive reuse can address two challenges at once: giving an obsolete property a productive new life while creating much-needed permanent supportive housing. The project was subsequently recognized by CREW Orange County with its 2023 SPIRE Award for Building Renovation Design and by the Orange County Affordable Housing Awards for special-needs housing.