Hilltop Apartments – ADU Conversion
Santa Cruz, CA, USA
2024-2025
This high-impact project at 363 Western Drive in Santa Cruz, CA, is a crucial initiative for the client For the Future Housing, executed by Nielsen Studios. With an estimated budget of $21 million, the project's innovative scope involves the reconfiguration of an existing apartment complex to expand affordable housing capacity by creating 32 new Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) through the conversion of unused garage spaces and circulation areas, spanning approximately 32,000 SF .
Serving as the Project Manager, my role was central to navigating the complex technical and administrative phases, including Construction Documents (CDs), Consultant Coordination, and Permit Application. I was responsible for oversight of the CD development for all building and accessibility upgrades and for leading the coordination among civil, structural, MEP, and accessibility consultants. A key contribution was leading the preparation and management of the entire permit submission package, including the necessary plan updates to address city feedback and code requirements. My expertise was critical in resolving complex issues related to fire access, garage egress, and the technical integration of the ADUs, and I served as the main point of contact for all consultants throughout the final design and permitting phases.







