In 2012, Brinshore Development teamed up with various local agencies to transform a 1920s Chicago hotel into Buffett Place, a supportive housing community for mentally challenged residents in the Lakeview neighborhood. The building, which cost more than $14.9 million to redevelop, opened in January of this year and leased all of its 51 units.
A combination of the units is reserved for residents earning 30 percent of the area median income (AMI); those at below 50 percent of the AMI; and residents at less than 60 percent of the AMI.
Supportive services at Buffett Place, which are optional, combine therapy and counseling to help residents develop life skills, secure financial stability, and find employment. Amenities include a fitness room, computer room, art gallery, and bike storage.
One of the retail spaces in the building was renovated to house Urban Meadows, a local nonprofit flower shop. In exchange, the business provides on-site job training for Buffett Place residents.
Buffett Place is also certified green by Enterprise Green Communities and Energy Star and includes a green rooftop, where the Chicago Botanic Garden provides horticultural classes.
