In its initial 1928 press coverage, the building touted a 13-story structure made of reinforced concrete with 96 bedrooms, two solariums, four handball courts, a gymnasium, swimming pool, lounge, dining room, grill, a separate dining room and lounge for women, and a separate entrance on A street for women.

[5] The ziggurat-shaped building includes stenciled ceiling frescoes in the former dining room and a grand staircase that was restored in the latest remodel.

[7] The plan to convert the building into commercial properties was projected to generate nearly half a million dollars per year in revenue for the city.

[8] In 2012 it was reported that Turner Construction Company spent $24 million to restore the building to its original state and make way for its use as a homeless shelter.

The organization managing the project is Affirmed Housing, which paid the city $4 million for the property and arranged financing for the remainder.