Adaptive reuse project turns former Austin motel into affordable apartments

The recently completed Veer Apartments in Austin is an adaptive reuse project of a former Quality Inn motel. The transformation created affordable student and workforce housing with 174 modern apartments starting at $855 per month.

The building features more than 89,000 sf of living space within the renovated five-story building, offering spacious studio apartments in two floorplan choices. Originally a four-story structure, the design added a fifth level and infilled the interior atrium with apartment units to achieve the highest and best use of the existing site. 

Metal façade detailing wraps around the exterior windows and balconies, adding a contemporary appearance to the building. Each apartment offers modern finishes and fixtures, vinyl hardwood flooring, a gourmet kitchen with stainless steel appliances and granite countertops, fully remodeled bathrooms with tiled showers and modern vanity. The renovation added a fitness center and outdoor pool to the property to complement the business center, on-site laundry facilities, pet spa, and complimentary wi-fi in common areas.

“Adaptive reuse projects like Veer Apartments are poised to make a huge difference in the communities where they are located,” said Erik Leitner, principal and senior project architect for Pfluger Architects. “The hotel floor plate is not much different from that of a studio or one-bedroom apartment, so the conversion and redesign is less expensive and time-restrictive than other adaptive reuse projects. This project created much-needed workforce and student housing in the heart of the city, where affordable housing options were previously limited.”

Located near retail, dining, and entertainment venues as well as The University of Texas at Austin campus, and major employers, Veer’s amenities include an outdoor pool, barbecue grills, and a 24-hour fitness center.

On the project team:

• Owner and/or developer: SHIR Capital
• Design architect: Austin Outdoor Design
• Architect of record: Pfluger Architects
• MEP & Civil engineer: WGI
• Structural engineer: Structures
• General contractor/construction manager: Avas Construction