Modernization of Spring Gardens (244 Units)
Reconstruction and Modernization of 244 Housing Units
Jefferson County Housing Authority, JCHA Housing and Development Corp. | Birmingham, Alabama
Aho Architects was chosen by the JCHA Housing and Development Corporation for a $15.3 million project to modernize the 244-unit Spring Gardens apartment community.
The project included the complete reconstruction of 195 units and the renovation of 49 others. It also added new amenities like laundry and mail facilities and replaced the community’s domestic and fire suppression water systems in the first three phases of the original construction.
Aho Architects has completed 11 projects for JCHA, including reconstruction, renovation, capital improvements (roofs, windows, etc.), and sitework.
For the 195 full-scope units, the buildings were almost entirely rebuilt, keeping only the floor slabs, most exterior wall studs, and previously replaced roofs. The 49 limited-scope units, being more recently built, received mostly cosmetic and system upgrades to match the fully reconstructed units.
The project was carefully planned in phases, allowing JCHA to keep occupancy rates high and minimize disruption for residents, who only had to relocate once.
Interesting Fact
Aho Architects also helped JCHA successfully appeal a code ruling, reducing construction costs and disruptions while maintaining safety standards. This ensured that renovation funds were used efficiently to create a modern, safe, and refreshed community for the residents.
