Downtown SA Hotel to Transform into 220 New Apartments
San Antonio’s downtown is set for a significant transformation as the San Antonio Housing Trust plans to convert an extended-stay hotel into “The Whitney,” a 220-unit apartment complex. This initiative, turning the Sonesta ES Suites at 425 Bonham into new residences, marks the first in an anticipated series of downtown hotel conversions aimed at boosting urban housing options.
A New Chapter for Downtown Living
The approval of “The Whitney” signals an exciting evolution for downtown San Antonio’s residential offerings. This 220-unit apartment complex will occupy the former Sonesta ES Suites Hotel at 425 Bonham, undergoing a comprehensive refashioning to meet the growing demand for urban housing. The transformation promises modern living spaces within a bustling city center, providing a fresh alternative for those seeking to reside in the vibrant core of San Antonio.
The San Antonio Housing Trust’s Vision for Repurposing Assets
This project highlights the San Antonio Housing Trust’s innovative strategy to address housing needs by repurposing existing commercial structures. Focusing on extended-stay hotels, which are often suitable for residential layouts, this approach offers an efficient and sustainable way to increase housing density. “The Whitney” is the first of several planned downtown hotel conversions, demonstrating a clear commitment to expanding accessible urban living.
Project Overview: The Whitney Apartments
| Category | Former Use | New Use |
|---|---|---|
| Location | 425 Bonham, Downtown SA | 425 Bonham, Downtown SA |
| Building Type | Sonesta ES Suites Hotel (Extended Stay) | The Whitney (Apartment Complex) |
| Units | Hotel Rooms (Variable) | 220 Apartment Units |
| Key Organization | Hotel Management | San Antonio Housing Trust |
Broader Impact on San Antonio’s Urban Core
This adaptive reuse project is a significant step towards a more densely populated and pedestrian-friendly downtown San Antonio. By transforming commercial spaces into residential units, the city enhances its urban fabric, encouraging more residents to live and recreate within its historic core. Such initiatives are vital for fostering a robust local economy and supporting downtown businesses, creating a vibrant, accessible ecosystem.
A Wave of Downtown Development
The Whitney project unfolds amidst other notable developments shaping San Antonio’s urban landscape. Recently, a new 275-unit development was unveiled in Southtown. Concurrently, the $185 million Hemisfair hotel by Zachry has revealed its opening date, while Weston Urban has commenced pre-leasing for its new downtown complex. These diverse projects underscore a comprehensive vision for a revitalized San Antonio, balancing new construction with adaptive reuse.
Essential Dates for San Antonio’s Business Community
While real estate development continues to capture headlines, the San Antonio business community has several other important events and opportunities on the horizon. Plan to attend the critical State of the Airport event on December 2nd, providing insights into future air travel and economic impact. Looking into the new year, the 2026 Guadalupe County Growth Summit is scheduled for February 19th, offering economic forecasts and networking for regional stakeholders. Additionally, companies striving for excellence should note that nominations for the prestigious Best Places to Work 2026 awards are open until February 27th, an excellent opportunity to celebrate outstanding workplace cultures.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is “The Whitney” project?
It’s a 220-unit apartment complex in downtown San Antonio, converted from the former Sonesta ES Suites Hotel at 425 Bonham. - Who is leading this conversion?
The San Antonio Housing Trust is spearheading this initiative to create diverse housing options. - Why convert hotels into apartments?
The motivation is to address urban housing demand by repurposing underutilized extended-stay hotels, increasing residential density, and aiding downtown revitalization. - Is this the only hotel conversion planned?
No, the San Antonio Housing Trust plans for “The Whitney” to be the first in a series of downtown hotel conversions. - When was this announced and by whom?
Reported by James McCandless of the San Antonio Business Journal on November 26, 2025, detailing the project’s approval and plans.
This innovative hotel conversion by the San Antonio Housing Trust highlights the city’s commitment to thoughtful urban development. By transforming existing assets into vibrant residential communities, San Antonio is actively shaping a more dynamic, accessible, and resident-friendly downtown for its future.
Downtown SA Hotel Converts To New Apartments
