Transforming Motels, Empowering Lives

WHA is proud to introduce our newest adaptive reuse projects that have transformed former motels in Stanton, CA, into supportive housing for veterans and formerly homeless households: Clara Vista and Iluma.

Integral Partnerships

In December 2020,  Jamboree Housing Corporation, the County of Orange, and the City of Stanton, secured funding through the State Department of Housing and Community Development’s (HCD) Project Homekey program to create Clara Vista, Iluma, and Aurora Vista Apartments. These three communities offer 153 rental homes for individuals experiencing homelessness, earning up to 30% of the Area Median Income (AMI). Of these, 10 units are reserved for individuals with significant mental disabilities and 20 units for homeless veterans.

WHA was invited to design Clara Vista and Iluma in 2021. This overarching strategy not only addresses immediate housing needs, but also establishes an example for long-term community support and stability for Orange County and communities nationwide.

Impactful Design & On-Site Services

Clara Vista, the former Tahiti Motel, built in 1962, spans 1.86 acres at 11850 and 11870 Beach Boulevard. With careful consideration for the busy street front location, the site was converted into 60 mid-century studio apartments of 567 square feet each. A 3,400-square-foot community building with outdoor amenities sits on the adjacent site featuring counseling rooms, a group room, a kitchen, a TV lounge, a game room, a laundry room, and office spaces for service staff. The outdoor space includes a courtyard with a garden and barbecue areas—a welcoming space for residents to come together.

Iluma reimagined the former Stanton Inn & Suites, built in 1987, into 71 studio and one-bedroom apartments, each equipped with kitchenettes. The former motel lobby has been transformed into a vibrant community center that includes offices for service staff, a kitchen, a TV lounge, a conference room, and a computer room. An adjacent outdoor courtyard with seating, barbecues, and tables serves as a gathering place for residents. The three-story development spans 1.02 acres at 7161 Katella Avenue, just two miles from Clara Vista.

Community Integration

The success of Clara Vista, Iluma, and Aurora Vista is driven by the comprehensive supportive services provided by Jamboree’s dedicated Community Impact team. This team includes a full-time case manager and a full-time Supportive Service Coordinator, offering on-site support to residents. The services are designed to create a stable environment, facilitating successful transitions for the residents. The Spanish style exterior has been completely refreshed. The community building serves as a hub for these services, offering spaces for counseling, group activities, and social interaction, all of which enhance residents’ well-being.

These developments set a standard for adaptive reuse projects, effectively addressing the housing needs of vulnerable populations while overcoming significant challenges. With thoughtful design, these projects not only positively impact the community by promoting well-being but also ensure economic and resource efficiency, remaining adaptable for the future.