UNIVERSITY
INN
Retrofitting properties, restoring community
YCA partnered with Housing Consortium of the East Bay and MPI Homes to transform an underutilized motel site in Berkeley into 49 units of permanent supportive housing, alongside three renovated commercial spaces offering essential community services such as a shared kitchen, laundry, and tenant support.
Funded through state and local HomeKey programs, the project delivers urgently needed housing for people most most impacted by the housing crisis. Our design approach prioritized accessibility, dignity, and community cohesion, ensuring each space supports stability, belonging, and daily life.
Energy-efficiency upgrades further modernized the property, reducing operating costs while improving resident comfort. By retrofitting existing structures with care and intention, YCA continues to advance housing justice by creating equitable housing solutions.
PROJECT INFO
Project: University Inn, Berkeley, CA
Units: 49 units
Client: Housing Consortium of the East Bay and MPI Homes
Prime Architect: Yes Community Architects
SERVICES
Feasibility Studies
Architecture