A Better Buzz for the Sisters of Mercy Hospital Annex
March/April 2018
By A. Hayes

The Annex prior to renovation

Restored as Better Buzz Coffee Roasters, 2018

Built as part of the Sisters of Mercy Hospital in 1919, the Annex at 801-803 University Avenue was designated by the San Diego Historical Resources Board in 2007 and placed on SOHO's Most Endangered List in 2014 due to a threat of demolition by neglect. Taking advantage of a ripe adaptive reuse opportunity, this building is now home to Better Buzz Coffee Roasters, which opened its 7,500-square-foot, multi-level coffee hub in January 2018.

Originally, the Annex housed two naturally lit surgical units, a lecture hall for student nurses, x-ray facilities, and resting quarters for the surgeons. Now this designated local landmark features a ground floor conference room, a lounge on the mezzanine level, and offices on the top floor.

Better Buzz Coffee Roasters is a highly successful adaptive reuse project and SOHO applauds the owner's vision. In the face of climate change, we hope to see more such renovations of historic buildings because it is the most sustainable solution.

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