Pfluger Architects and SHIR Capital have completed the transformation of a former Austin motel into affordable studio apartments. The Veer Apartments, located at 7928 Gessner Drive, offer 174 modern units starting at $855 per month. This project is part of an effort to address Austin’s affordable housing shortage by converting vacant hotel buildings into residential spaces.
The Veer Apartments, once a Quality Inn, now feature over 89,000 square feet of living space with amenities such as an outdoor pool, BBQ grills, a fitness center, and a pet spa. Erik Leitner from Pfluger Architects said that adaptive reuse projects like this can significantly impact local communities by providing much-needed housing options. He noted that the conversion process is often less costly and time-consuming than other projects.
The development team included Austin Outdoor Design as the design architect and Avas Construction as the general contractor. The building was expanded from four to five stories to maximize its use. Each apartment includes modern finishes like vinyl hardwood flooring and stainless steel appliances.
Elan Gordan of SHIR Capital highlighted the growing demand for such rental properties in urban areas. He pointed out that renovating existing structures can be more cost-effective than new construction and often benefits from eased zoning restrictions and tax incentives.
Veer Apartments is one of several similar projects by SHIR Capital and Pfluger Architects in Austin. Other completed conversions include Hedge Apartments and Alma Apartments, with more planned in Houston and Colorado Springs.
