Sheltering the Homeless - MArch Dissertation - Drury University

Sheltering the Homeless The influence of architecture in the realm of homelessness

Mathew Stockstill

fall 2013

Table of Contents

Introduction: The Problem...............................................1 Context and Relevance.......................... 3 Research Objectives............................... 4 Housing the Homeless............................. 5 Case Studies: Austin Center for the Homeless...........12 Urban Farm, Pasano HQ...........................15 Spring Garden Homeless Shelter.........18 The Bridge Homeless Center................. 20 Synthesis.................................................... 22 Project Framework Project Vision........................................... 23 Design Objectives.................................... 25 Rationale................................................... 26 Programmatic Elements......................... 27 Delhi, India................................................. 29 Bibliography

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Introduction

Background

case studies

project framework

The problem Homelessness has been present in society ever since this world’s existence. Depending on your beliefs, even Adam and Eve were without a true structure for housing in the garden of Eden. From another perspective, hunters and gathers thousands of years ago roamed the Earth looking for caves and natural cover to escape the harsh tendencies of weather. It was not until the Primitive Hut however that humans felt the need to be housed under their own creations, giving them prestige over those who did not have such commodities. The homeless since have been outcast from society because of a vile reputation and lifestyle that is deemed inferior to the rest.

There are currently over 1,750,000 people homeless in the U.S. alone, with a wide range of demographics, sex, and family sizes.1 There are numerous ideologies on the cause of homelessness, but most of them can be generalized into two different reasons, one interior and one exterior.

The exterior motive for homelessness is in relation to the housing market.2 This theory suggest that there is, and always will be, a homeless group in the world because there are not enough houses to provide shelter. Within this theory is underlined the belief that when someone is placed into a home from the street, another one takes their place.

1. National Law Center on Homelessness and Poverty 2. Ellen and O’Flaherty. 1.

3. National Law Center on Homelessness and Poverty

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Replacement and displacement are key in this spectrum and offer little hope for the fixing of the problem. The interior reasoning behind this issue is that some humans have put themselves in a position to be homeless because of mental illness, drug abuse, poor money budgeting and other things. It is estimated that over 66% of homeless are mentally ill and suffer from drug or alcohol addiction.3 Such issues are not easily solved because of the time and money needed to aid grave situations.

With homelessness being present for so long and in such vast regions of the globe, it is easy to wonder why the issue has not been fixed.

Figure 1. Chart Projecting Homeless Population Increase

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4. Department of Housing and Urban Development

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case studies Background

Figure 2. Chart Showing Government Cuts to Housing

Introduction

Current media, organizations, and campaigns address the issue on a constant basis and a sufficient amount of research has been done to find different ways of attacking homelessness. Government policy has been deemed a possible savior in regards to shelter availability and funding. Homeless shelters are paid for by federal and state grants or by private donors and organizations. With our recent economic crises, more people have become poor and homeless while less funds have become available. The crisis is not one that can be hidden and the government has pumped $47.6 billion into the Housing and Urban Development budget, which is $4.2 billion more than the initial amount.

The distribution of these funds however are spread out across many spectrums and to solely rely on the government for assistance is senile. Donations are very heavily relied on by shelters and since the economy crashed, people are less likely to donate in fear of ending up in a similar situation. Even if money were to be more accessible, there is still an inefficient amount of employees and volunteers available. Obviously, monetary problems are what plagues the homeless and shelters. The economy is too vast to be controlled, and because of that, assistance for the poor will always be fluctuating.

project framework

The problem

Figure 3. Chart Showing Causes of Homelessness

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Introduction

Background

case studies

project framework

Context and Relevance Homeless shelters are becoming more vast across the world as poverty continues to grow and economies fluctuate. The gap between the lower and middle class has widened dramatically and displacement of humans into assisted living situations has become more prevalent. With our most recent economical suffering, governments are having problems finding the funds for shelters and donors are starting to give less in order to continue support for themselves. This situation can only be fixed by making shelters more transitory for residents and appealing for non-residents. Creating a more self-sustainable system also needs to be looked into in order to create less need for financial assistance.

Poverty will always be present but unless the poor and homeless have the opportunity or motivation to advance socially and develop personally, shelters will not be able to house everyone in need of assistance.

Shelters have become a feared institution because of their inclusiveness and rough aesthetics. More interaction with non-residents could help spark more interest and support for shelters. Creating a more self-sustainable system also needs to be looked into in order to allow less-reliance.

Image 1. Homeless Shelter in the Bronx

Image 2. Inside of Sleeping Quarters

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Research Objectives and Aim

case studies

project framework

With this research a demonstration on how architectural design can create the changes needed to improve homeless shelters and their residents will be provided. Psychology will be researched vastly to see what stimulates humans to prosper. Nature will be studied thoroughly to find the positive influence it offers. Sociology will be studied to gain insight on human behavior in certain settings and communities and specific design elements will be analyzed in order to find the most efficient way to create a shelter that becomes more transitory.

Ways that architecture can assist the personal development of shelter residents.

Background

Specific elements in buildings and nature that have positive psychological effects on humans.

Ways to make shelters more selfsustainable in terms of food, energy, and water.

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Introduction

How to encourage social engagement in order to deplete the barrier between residents and nonresidents.

Figure 4. Research Structure. There are three primary concepts that I will research along with specific elements of each individual piece.

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Introduction

Background

case studies

project framework

Housing the Homeless Poverty and homelessness will always be a problem in the world making shelters a necessary institution. Not all homeless humans live in shelters for some choose to reside on prisons, hospitals, bus stops and other places in public.5 Only a minority of homeless have slept in the same shelter over the past seven days (White 1992). In fact while 15% of humans claim to have been homeless at least once in their life, only 9% have been in a shelter. As mentioned previously, mental illness is seen as a cause of homelessness. Some homeless citizens refuse shelters because they are terrified by the mentally unstable. This sector of public health has taken a large hit over the past couple of decades, starting in the mid 1970’s where over half of the their usual visitors were refused service and pushed back into the street.6 The homeless do receive support from other organization such as churches, ministries, and the Salvation Army. Some organizations offer only meals or medical attention while some allow nightly stay but force the temporary residents out after daybreak. Homeless shelters are often blamed for the problem at hand even though most homeless still resist such assistance.

Surveys from the late 1980’s shed light on the lack of interest by the homeless towards housing. In September of 1988 for instance, shelter managers reported that 35% of their beds laid vacant during the previous year.7 It is difficult to believe that one would rather live in the harsh environment than inside of a shelter. Although shelters face the grave task of housing those who do not even wish to be there, these buildings must encompass a certain aura that influences a better self for its residents Design and Shelters As briefly discussed above, shelters are currently fighting a losing battle to pick the poor off the street and set them comfortably in society. One way to assist shelters is through the influence of proper design. A harsh reality is that most shelters are at the mercy of small funds for construction and maintenance and that most design strategies would just not suffice under their budget. One of the broad goals of this research is to use design strategies to create a more positive image for shelters so that more assistance may be given while establishing more self-sustainability. This brings us to the first element that will be researched which is self-sustainability.

5. Hope & Young, 3.

6. Jenkins, 31.

7. 1988 National Survey of Shelters for the Homeless

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Figure 5. Diagram Showing Impact of Nature at Different Scales

8. Bachman 9. Bloomburg Rankings

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project framework case studies Background

For instance, new faucet technologies can save up to $100 annually in a single household.

Assuming a shelter can hold 100 people and that the median household size is 4, and extra $2500 can be saved annually and used to hire another part time employee or establish a small community program. Another topside to such implementation is that the government has setup multiple programs including the Environmental Protection Agency that offers grants to organizations wishing to do so.

Another opportunity for self-sustainability comes in the form of food growth. While it would be unreasonable to assume that the homeless can live solely off vegetables and fruit, they are easy to grow and healthy. Malnutrition is a serious concern for the poor, homeless or not, and by teaching them to grow plants, they can partially feed themselves and others.

Introduction

History has shown us that preparation can only go so far and that the only way to insure ones safety and stability, is to become more self-sustainable.

Sustainability is very possible for the homeless and their shelters through many different means. For shelters, innovation in LEED design brings a significant amount of hope for independence. Green shelters have already begun to pop up around the country and while the initial cost can make one shriek, the payback from the design elements can save money in the long run by using strategies that require less fossil fuel consumption and more eco-friendly techniques like passive or geothermal heating and cooling. Solar panels can be used to gather energy so that less will be taken from the grid. Some smallscale buildings have even been able to create more energy than needed, leaving excess to be sold to the city. Beyond the use of external devices as an energy source. Passive solar heating and cooling has the potential of covering 80% of a building’s energy cost.8 The money freed up through this improvement would be massive and could be used to implement more internal services or renovations.

Water collection and conservation is another element of sustainable design that could in buildings on a various amount of scales. On a small scale, high efficient toilets and water faucets can conserve up to 70% more water than most commercial fixtures.

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project framework case studies Background Introduction

By growing their own plants, a sufficient amount of money can be saved. Lettuce, tomatoes, or broccoli are just a few vegetables that are typically overpriced at markets but very easy to grow.10 Extra vegetables could be grown and sold to the public as well. This would of course have a special social engagement quality that I will discuss later. SelfSustainable resources are available to everyone but they of course have their drawbacks. Designing green has a high initial costs and most shelters are not resilient enough to look far down the road.

Growing plants also has drawbacks because of the fluctuating environment. The case studies in this document will shed light on ways to properly incorporate these ideas of self-sustainability within homeless shelters and other buildings.

The homeless are also fearful of others in the same situation. With this fear comes a loss of community and true understanding of one another.

As stated above the homeless are almost always perceived as mentally ill or drug abusers. This view obviously prevents some people from donating to the cause and also makes the homeless feel unwanted in society. Increasing social engagement and a sense of community can help influence donation numbers for non-residents. This will also positively impact the residents by providing a feeling of hope and placement, which in turn should encourage them to advance socially.12 By creating a positive society within homeless shelters, residents can grow and create motivations within one another that will benefit the community.13

A New Societal Tolerance The homeless have been treated as the outcast of society for centuries because of their financial indifference and alternative lifestyle. Poverty stricken individuals are plagued with the status of an outsider, or “an individual who stands apart from a community yet is connected enough to affect its destiny, or maybe even save it.”11 It is this strong feeling of potential that needs to be bestowed onto the homeless, however, the poor are feared by the wealthy and vice-versa.

Figure 6. Diagram Showing how the Homeless can Serve the Community and Vice-Versa.

10. Seaman 11. Ids and Shwartz. 35.

12. Riesman, 5.

13. Riesman, 6.

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14. Bargh & McKenna 15. Skipper & Robert, 156.

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project framework case studies

The employees are next to be intermingled with for they can offer the benefits of a companion but without the instant judgment or hesitation.

The most difficult form of engagement is with the rest of the community, which would have to be done in a more controlled setting. This could come in the form of an adjacent park that can be used or maintained by the residents, giving them an opportunity to contribute to the community.

The design of the public space would have to be site specific but programmatic elements can be incorporated to encourage more visitors. Gardens and vegetables could be grown which would encourage a collaboration between the two. Such collaboration could be life changing for both parties and does not have to solely be limited to individual encounters, which will be discussed in the next section.

Background

To combat this, spaces should be provided that encourage a return to society and networking on many levels. Adequate spaces should be implemented for positive interaction between shelter residents, employees, and non residents. A wide scale of spaces are needed to insure a gradual transition between the different groups. To toss a previously homeless citizen into a group of wealthy civilians would be catastrophic and rather counterproductive. They must first learn to communicate and collaborate with humans in the same situation. People who share the same culture tend to define the same situation in the same way.15 Thus interaction between them is most vital, and can be done in various

Figure 7. Diagram Showing Effects of Certain Interactions

Introduction

Interaction has been a key component of society, cities and buildings throughout their entire existence.

Interpersonal interaction creates trust, cooperation and acceptance amongst members of various diverse groups. This used to be the case but now technology and media has molded perceptions which have nearly drained our capacity to interact with and accept strangers or people different than ourselves.14 This new stigma has begun to create a negative effect on the homeless for civilians are often too weary of shelters and their temporary residents to establish the vital interaction for necessary personal development.

Introduction

Background

case studies

project framework

Finding New Homage Solely providing shelter for the homeless does not necessarily fix the problem of a housing shortage.

Until the poor are given the proper tools and mindset to survive on their own, shelters will continue to be overcrowded. A platform for mobility must be created and a couple of design elements, some already mentioned above, can be implemented to reinforce this social advancement and personal development.

These strategies vary in scale as well from window utilization to classrooms and also to gardens.

Daylighting has held a special place in architectural design for centuries by means of heat, illumination, religious reasons and even therapeutic practices. Daylight reminds us that an outside world exist and windows allow us to visually interact between spaces. A strong psychological effect is created by daylight as well for even in less dramatic luminous conditions, small changes in lighting can alter the mood and emotional state of the building’s occupants (Flynn, 1977). Experiments have been vastly performed in order to prove such affiliation between mood and lighting, especially in high stress environments. A past study in regards to daylighting office mood showed that a 25%-40% ratio of sun patch to floor area was optimal for creating a more joyous and motivated feeling (Boubekri, 1991).

Windows and the visual connections they create can be very vital as well for it allows non residents to view some of the shelters internal operations, which could in turn increase their reputation.

Buildings with more windows and openings are also less intimidating because of the exposure they entail. The ability to view society from the inside can be motivational for residents because it reminds them of a higher status and more opportunities. Natural light has become a beacon of hope, which is what the homeless and poor need. The cost benefits of using natural lighting over electrical is also apparent and the preserved funds can be used elsewhere.

Figure 8. Diagram Showing Benefits of Natural Daylighting

16. Boubekri, 4.

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Mathew Stockstill

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project framework case studies Background

The last element discussed which looks into the personal development of shelter residents is nature. Environmental psychology has recently taken a large role in society in hope that nature can regain its presence in the present humanplagued world. Nature has been implemented in several different building types, including health care, asylums, offices, school and other high stress environment in order to psychologically affect the users in positive ways. One key component of nature that was discussed earlier is daylighting, and the sense of hope that results from it.

The categorization of nature and preference to one of its vast orientations is not universal for all humans. Studies do however prove that some factors have higher influences on our preference than others including past experiences, foliage thickness, controllability, and functionality (Kaplan & Kaplan, 37). It is also impossible to find an exact universal preference for natural settings because all of our senses are stimulated in different ways. Our sight for instance helps stimulate us by means of the color variance in nature’s plants. A color impression is not only a mechanism of seeing, but also a sensation or feeling that simultaneously activates our thoughts and our cognitive mechanism. Contained in this same reference is a vast amount of information regarding the mental effects of certain colors. Another way in which nature can benefit the homeless is by mental restoration through fascination, a feeling of escape, a sense of a being in a larger context, and familiarity.

Introduction

Many shelters already house special programs that help transition of the poor into more stable environments. Some offer certain educational incentives while others have sanctuaries for prayer and spiritual growth. Crafts and individual production are also popular ways to keep residents active. One of the underlying issues with the homeless is the effort put towards finding employment. Workforce opportunities can be more efficiently found online because the internet contains an endless amount of resources regarding development. Webinars can be viewed in movie rooms while guest speakers, community program administrators, or other public employees can make appearances to help inform or organize groups. With this in mind adequate interior spaces should be provided to accommodate such activities and be designed in ways that do the same.

Figure 9. Diagram Showing Effects of Certain Interactions

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project framework

The ability to utilize nature can be helpful as well during transition and can be accomplished by its restoration. As discussed in a previous section, growing vegetables has the potential to be very effective because of the food supply the provide. Growing plants also lets humans see their assistance in the creation of progress. This feeling of accomplishment can give the homeless necessary motivation for advancement. Interacting with nature can also prove to non-residents that the homeless have certain capabilities and are attempting to better the community.

Introduction

Background

case studies

Synthesis Upon the completion of this research, these set objectives have been reached and now in order to ďŹ nd out how me ďŹ ndings can actually be implemented, case studies will be investigated to gain proper insight.

Image 3. Homeless Man Seeking Assistance

How can building incorporate nature in ways that beneďŹ t shelter residents and the community?

What green design elements can be included into buildings in ways that conserve funding and the environment?

How can social interaction be encouraged in positive ways and also between different groups?

How can a building create a process that urges personal development and independence?

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Image 4. Homeless Man Sleeping on Bench

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Austin center for the homeless, Austin, TX lzt architects

project framework

Austin, like most large cities in Texas, has a massive homeless population that had to be addressed by the architect.

A strong green initiative was included in this project and had to respond immediately in the design. Murray Legge wanted to create a larger sense of community within and outside of the building while still providing adequate spaces on the interior for personal development. This had to be built on a small budget but still include self-sustainable elements in order to save money on monthly bills.

Image 5. Night Shot from Corner

Introduction

Background

case studies

The architect responded to these needs in many ways, especially in the terms of program and environmental design.

The brown-field site was selected near a concentrated homeless population and 6 different bus stops in order to attract the most people. The building is situated on the corner which has an open courtyard for soft interaction and friendly appeal. A two-story lobby and other open spaces like such create multiple connections between the residents and visitors. A mixed use program was used for flexibility and accessibility for the homeless. Eighteen office spaces were needed for employees but not all in unison so an open office area was incorporated for more flexibility.

Image 6. First Floor Lobby

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Austin center for the homeless, Austin, TX A Leed Silver rating was awarded to the building for its innovation in environmental design which included many systems that save money in bills. The roof contains 75% reective material to avoid heat island and cut down cooling loads.

Around 90% of the building is naturally lit through wise use of glass which allows views to the exterior from many spaces on the interior and vice-versa. SpeciďŹ c paints, sealants, and other products that have low emissions were used and all plants and trees are native to the region. The rainwater collection capacity is 13,000 gallons which helps reduce waste water by 50% and potable water use by 30%. Solar panels help the shelter save 20% more energy than the typical building and special stackcast tilt-frame was used to increase the surface area of concrete which contains a byproduct that reduces greenhouse emissions.

The top right diagram shows the different design elements that contribute to self-sustainability. Energy, water, and daylight is gathered in various ways creating cheaper utility bills and less reliance on ďŹ nancial support of others. The bottom image is of the lobby and displays the vast amount of daylight that can enter the building as well as the visual interaction capability through the glass.

Image 7. Diagram Showing Green Design Elements

Image 8. Front Facade from the Street

Introduction

Background

case studies

project framework

lzt architects

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Austin center for the homeless, Austin, TX

Figure 10. Floor Plans Showing Interactions: As described earlier, the interactions between residents, employees and visitors vary from floor to floor with most private spaces being located in the upper levels while the more public spaces are kept on the bottom levels.

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Introduction

Background

case studies

The below diagram depicts the various types of interaction that can take place in certain spaces. Many interactions overlap, for instance most resident to employee and resident to resident interactions can take place in the same spaces. A large portion of the resident to visitor interaction can take place informally in areas of care or assistance. Notice how the balance of interactions shift with higher levels. This is probably done in order to maintain a feeling of comfort for all parties in the presence of members from another.

project framework

lzt architects

Japan’s farming sectors have begun to shrink due to less available agricultural land. Urbanization in the country has pushed farms to the outskirts and has taken over large portions of rich agricultural land. Because of this, produce must be imported to Tokyo, creating more carbon emissions. On a smaller scale, office buildings contain the stress and productivity challenges that come with every work place. Very seldom do office buildings contain activities that relieve employees of these troubles and offer programs that increase well being. Kono Design had the difficult task of creating these opportunities for workers and enhancing the accessibility of agricultural produce.

Image 9. Public Space with Algae Pond

Farming’s demise has created a very small workforce for farmers and agricultural specialist and in order to keep alive Japan’s past dominant market, Kono design chose to incorporate nature into Pasona’s headquarters. The implementation of agriculture is intended to have a double effect on the employees and region. For the employees, nature will help relieve stress and allow workers to eat healthy without having to travel out of the workplace.

In a regional sense, the building helps create an awareness for the rising problem of land depletion and urbanization.

Introduction

Background

case studies

project framework

Urban farm, pasona Tokyo HQ, Tokyo, ja-

Image 10. Employee Picking Tomatoes

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Urban farm, pasona Tokyo HQ, Tokyo, jaFigure 11. 1st Floor Plan

case studies

Public Space with Algae Pond

Background

Figure 12. 1st Floor Plan

Introduction

As the diagram on the following page shows green spaces are in certain locations for a specific reason. The lobby for instance allows employees and visitors to immediately notice the statement that the building is trying to make. The green facade acts as advertisement for the green movement and lets passerbys recognize the efforts that the employees are putting into the movement. The wall also has another effect which is to block summer radiation while allowing it in the winter once the leaves have dies off. Having plantings next to work spaces helps employees relieve stress and appreciate their work.

project framework

Incorporating nature and vegetation into the building in ways that did not disrupt work flow or create ecological problems was very key. The plans to the right show what areas contain green spaces. Urban Farm houses a very erratic organization of vegetation with each area serving a certain purpose. Plantings are not concentrated in one area of each floor but instead located in areas across the whole plan to create the sense of a growing building.

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Introduction

Background

case studies

project framework

Urban farm, pasona Tokyo HQ, Tokyo, ja-

Figure 13. Section Showing Interactions with Green Wall:

Figure 14. Plan Diagram with Images: The green spaces are strategically placed in areas that effect

The green wall contains multiple benefits that directly effect the residents, passerby and shelter.

the employees, visitors, and building.

Urban Farm is a prime example of how nature can have multiple impacts on a person’s daily routine and a building’s efficiency. The plantings have been proven to increase work-flow while reducing stress by properly locating green spaces in key areas such as lobbies, conference rooms, cubicles, eating areas, and others. By implementing a similar system shelter residents can create environments that have the same effect. Like Pasona employees, they can grow their own food, creating less reliance on exterior sources, create green spaces that send positive messages to the public about their efforts, all of which can contribute to a productive sense of accomplishment. The building itself can benefit from a green wall in terms of utility costs.

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Spring Garden Homeless Shelter, Lewishamn, London Peter Barber Architects

Background

case studies

Image 11. Axon of Site Plan

Introduction

The Spring Garden Homeless Shelter is one of seclusion.

The architect wanted to create a facility that was private enough to allow residents to act as a community and feed of another’s struggle and efforts. The “community” is physically created by the configuration of the plan which blocks of most of areas excluded from the shelter and surrounds a central green space that can be used for gardening or any other activities that the residents wish to perform. Within the building is a double volume hallway between the exterior and other interior spaces which allows plenty of natural light to enter while. This transparency creates visual interaction between the interior and exterior and a sense of openness and freedom inside the building.

project framework

Dependency is a common theme of most homeless people and the shelters they live in. Very few buildings actually offer the tools for self progression which gives a bad reputation for the poor population because most outsiders have the opinion that assistance should not be given to those who do not wish to help themselves. Peter Barber tackled this issue with a revolutionary facility in London that allows opportunities for self-growth.

Image 12. Single-Corridor that Wraps Around Entire Building

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Spring Garden Homeless Shelter, Lewishamn, London

Introduction

Background

case studies

project framework

Peter Barber Architects

Progression towards self-dependency was vital in the design so a growth process was created using different room types and amenities. Diagrammed in the plan below are the three different assortments of room that will help create incentives for the homeless to obtain. The ďŹ rst phase rooms are very basic and more compressed. By being more dense in this area, the residents can work together to reach their goals. The amenities are very limited which creates more reliance on publicly used spaces. The second phase is currently located in the tower and contains commonly used items such as fridges and rivers. In this transition, the community has become smaller creating less dependency but not quite as isolated as the soon to be completed third phase. The last phase has rooms with their own living commodities. Rooms are still organized in a linear format so that residents of different rooms can interact with more independence.

Image 13. Night Shot from Courtyard

Walking Path Between Building and Courtyard

This project sheds light on a system that gives residents the opportunity to advance in a controlled setting so that they can learn how to properly live on their own will still providing assistance if needed. By creating a tier system more help can be provided to those who truly needed it and more encouragement can be given to those who differ. Progression is a key piece in my thesis and this system provided such an opportunity but the layout may need to be altered to ďŹ t in with certain sites.

Figure 15. Diagram Showing Progression Phasing

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The Bridge Homeless Shelter, Dallas, TX Overland Design

case studies Background

Image 14. Patient in Medical Care Lobby

Introduction

The Bridge Homeless Center created a mission of providing service for the homeless which included job placement, mental and physical recovery. This building not only provided residence, but also puts the impoverished in a better situation to succeed independently. Overland Design created a vast program that contains adequate spaces for the stabilizing of homelessness, personal growth of the shelter’s residents and increasing public safety. This program includes spaces for mental and physical health care as well as conference rooms for seminars and specialized training. Some other resources offered at the shelter are job placement tools such as computers. Adequate space is given for the non residents to enjoy the shelter as well.

The program is split up into separate buildings which allows shelter residents to maintain privacy when others visit the facility to give presentations or receive the temporary support.

project framework

Dallas has experienced a large growth in the homeless population because of its increasing urban status. With this vast growth has come an increase in homeless rates and crime. Most shelters provide temporary housing for a certain amount of people but residency alone cannot ďŹ x the current problems that come with homelessness. With the homeless population so out of control, not everyone can be housed, leaving thousands in the streets without necessities like food.

Image 15. Courtyard in the Center of the Facility

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The Bridge Homeless Shelter, Dallas, TX The diagram to the right shows how the facility’s program is divided into four different buildings. By doing so, the residents can maintain some privacy from the visitors. This also allows homeless visitors an opportunity to use the public amenities when there is not enough space for sleeping. Nonhomeless guest and employees can use the facility without interference from residence. Another programmatic detail that makes this shelter unique is the implementation of a dog kennel. Dogs are a common friend to the homeless because they are a constant partner in the struggle but do not create the social pressure that humans do. A unique physical feature in the building is the writing on the windows which face the street. These stories and comments act as advertisement for the visitors and motivation for the residents. It gives them a chance to express their feelings and struggles on display. The use of display to assist the residents and inuence visitors is powerful and a element that should by used in every shelter design. The programmatic independence and use of a dog kennel are features that I feel will become very helpful and present in my design.

Axon of Site Plan

Walking Path Between Building and Courtyard

Figure 16. Diagram Showing Program Divided into Separate Buildings

Introduction

Background

case studies

project framework

Overland Design

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Background

case studies

From a broader sense, all buildings gave insight to necessary programmatic elements and efficient spatial organization. All of these very in size, layout, and program but all prove to be strategically planned to create a positive experience for shelter residents and guests.

Introduction

All of the case studies investigated had specific elements that reinforce the research and theories. They also shed light on new ideas and brought new questions. The Urban Farm projects displays how nature can be used to create a positive and influential space as well as a system of production. The shelter also creates a statement for the community in an attempt to aid the regional problem of land depletion. The Bridge Homeless Shelter provides temporary housing for the homeless as well as free services for the poor such as food and health. The program’s division into separate buildings based on specific users to insure privacy and friendly use is also a feature that deems important to the shelter’s success. Austin’s Homeless Center set a standard for green design in shelters which decrease s utility bills and conserves funds for other use such as internal programs. Spring Gardens offers a system for personal development within the program. Allowing residents to advance within the system mimics that of society and the correlation between perseverance and success.

Figure 17. Diagram Showing Program Divided into Separate Buildings

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project framework

Synthesis

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Project Vision and Objectives The homeless shelter will become a standard for related buildings in nearly every setting. It will pick the homeless off the street and provide a temporary haven where the poor can grow as a community within the facility while still engaging with those already partaking in it. A segway for impoverished citizens to grow personally and contribute to society will also be established in order keep the homeless from falling back into the same situation. A system within the shelter will allow for the timely transition of the homeless into a more independent state that will be beneďŹ cial to themselves and others.

The facility will also look to food production which will be used by the residents and others within the community. The shelter will also attempt to better the negative reputation that is attached to the homeless in hope that more people will understand the true struggle they face as well as feel more inclined to assist. Green design will become a vital piece in this project in order to conserve funds for the building and increase awareness within the community. Nature will be worked into the building in ways that mentally and psychologically beneďŹ t the shelter residents and workers.

Image 16. Housing in Delhi, India

Image 17. Homeless Man Being Helped in Delhi

Introduction

Background

case studies

project framework

Vision

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Project Vision and Objectives

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case studies

Certain technological features such as computer labs can be included for use in job searching or general research and education. Religion will also be incoporated into the design in order to provide a constant figure of Hope for residents. This space will be based around more personal reflection rather than worship in order cater to more than one belief.

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Background

Image 18. Homeless Center Computer Lab

Introduction

Progress will be encouraged at the shelter through educational processes and workshops. By properly training the homeless, a newly motivated and acknowledged workforce can be created which in turn will benefit the community. The community itself will come to recognize the positive efforts of the shelter residents which will enhance cooperation between the two. Overall, the shelter will become a new precedent for future shelter that does not provide temporary housing for the homeless, but instead fixes the problem entirely.

project framework

The incorporation of agriculture into and outside of the building will be very key to the facility for multiples reasons. Vegetation will act as a means of interaction between the residents and other communities as well as a means of production for the shelter. The produce will be consumed by residents and visitors from which the food will bring in profit that can be used to fund the shelter’s activities. The process of growing plants and vegetables will create a specialized workforce within the shelter that can become beneficial to society once the residents become independent.

Other training programs can be included in the shelter such as culinary arts and finance.

Project Vision and Objectives The objectives set are derived from the information gained through my research and case studies. There are four major objectives that the shelter must entail in order to aid the problem of homelessness and its victims. A transitory system must be created in order to minimize complacency and long-term assistance. Green design elements will be included in the building’s design in order to conserve energy and funds while creating a new standard for environmental protection. Interaction must be encouraged amongst shelter residents, guest, and employees in order to promote personal development and encouragement.

Nature must be used in order to increase personal wellness for the workers as well as give back the lost agriculture.

Create a transitory system that encourages temporary residents to personally develop Use Green Design elements to conserve funds and establish a precedent Allow positive interaction that increases the support between the community and shelter residents Bring nature into the building in ways that increases the personal wellness of workers and residents.

Introduction

Background

case studies

project framework

Objectives

Figure 18. Diagram Showing Benificiaries of each Objective

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case studies Background

The most efficient way to tackle this issue is by finding areas that require the most attention which is typically in urban areas where gentrification and sprawl constantly created movement amongst the poor, and in third world countries where aid is not possible because of such high poverty rates.

With few exceptions, cities become larger, and poor countries become more poor. City growth is typically due to the availability of resources which is sought out by the homeless and wealthy. These resources are not usually equally distributed which is where homeless shelters come into play in order to offer what the poor can not obtain.

The system that is being proposed can be used in locations where homelessness is not only vastly present but also a near permanent fixture.

As mentioned earlier, there are many causes for homelessness but one that can be deemed completely exterior is natural disasters. Areas affected by tornadoes, earthquakes , tsunamis, etc. are constantly at battle with nature making homes hardly permanent. This will create the challenge of designing easily build-able structure made from cheap but efficient materials. Such a challenge will also require fast transition and large cooperation.

Introduction

The importance of addressing homelessness and providing efficient shelter for the poor is very apparent to the world. Whether the homeless were put into their current situation suffered a very mis-fortunate fate, society as a whole cannot move forward. Poverty is a plague that often leads to violence, social unrest, and health concerns.

Homelessness is not an easily curable disease but by providing necessary services and progressive housing we can slowly begin patchwork.

project framework

Rationale

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Programmatic Description

project framework

Exterior Entry Spaces Exterior spaces should create a subtle transition into the interior of the building and allow for casual interaction between residents, shelter employees and residents. Landscape elements should be included to for an effective transition into the building.

Introduction

Background

case studies

Lobby The lobby should be very open in order to create a sense of freedom for users. Transparency should be used to create visual interaction between residents and non residents. The lobby should also have a presence of nature to inform visitors of the residents efforts.

Rooms The rooms will be organized in ways that promote personal growth and independence. Three different sectors will be created for three different stages of development. Rooms within the 1st sector should focus on unity and common spaces while the second sector should contain larger rooms that share similar appliances and are more secluded.

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The last sector of rooms should be very exclusive and contain more appliances.

Supportive Spaces These spaces include conference rooms, training rooms and multi-purpose spaces and should contain enough space to accommodate for small group functions. The multi-purpose room should be large and open planned enough to allow all residents to occupy at once.

Health Services Adequate spaces should be provided for the monitoring and healing of residents and impoverished persons to be tended to by staff.

This space will be available for not residents who need assistance and are also homeless.

Employee spaces All staff and faculty should have areas for efďŹ cient work-ow but are also open for residents to approach. These are should be adaptable to address the constant change in staff numbers.

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Programmatic Description

The cafeteria should be large enough for residents plus other homeless persons still on streets. Adequate spaces should be given for educational demonstrations on culinary arts residents to learn the trade.

project framework

Cafeteria all the the for

Agricultural spaces

Background

case studies

Agricultural spaces and vegetation should be strategically placed throughout the entire facility.

Two different areas should be provided for food production with one be exclusively for the residents and another that is accessible to the community.

Plants should be placed throughout the building, specifically in spaces of interaction and higher stress situations such as supportive spaces.

Figure 19. Spaces for Specific Users

Worship spaces

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Introduction

Since religion is so prevalent, especially Hinduism, in India, worshiping space must be provided in order for residents to retain faithfulness and hope. This space should not be too specific religious but instead allow for more personal reflection.

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Delhi, India

The country where I wish to pursue my thesis must be one of depserate need and unprecedented circumstance. India houses the second largest population of any country in Asia and is vastly growing because of its economical opportunities for industrial take-over. Geographically, India is at mercy to two large features that create climatic extremes, the Himalayan Mountains and That desert. These two features feed many disasters for India including harsh monsoons and fatal tsunamis.

In hindsight, India is becoming too dense, making such disasters even more problematic, which will make public housing and assisted living more necessary. While the country is broken up into numerous states for better control and organization, all of the areas differ in problems and positives. All of which contain exterior factors that put humans out into the streets, whether it was self-induced or not. One speciďŹ c state in India that faces this hardship to the extreme is the capitol, Delhi.

Introduction

Background

case studies

project framework

Rationale

Figure 20. Map of India with Area Selected

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Delhi, India

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case studies

The ability to grow food for oneself and others could become very beneficial in Delhi since floodplains ruin agriculture and citizens take over fertile land.

The current air pollution issue has risen out of a lack of effort by the government and a void in knowledge of environmental conservation by society. This will setup a great opportunity for the facility to make a statement towards the protection of the planet.

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Background

Figure 21. Chart Showing Population Increase in Delhi

Introduction

All of this criteria has brought me to New Delhi, India, one of the country’s most populated urban areas and a major target for natural disaster.

As the chart to the right depicts, the population of New Delhi is drastically growing creating a higher demand for food and a more dense city. This density has created a shortage of housing, depletion of resources and government aid, and a major problem when natural disasters occur. Flooding, air pollution, and earthquakes are constant issues that Delhi residents must deal with. Earthquakes and flooding constantly put citizens into a homeless situation and a depleted mental state.

A quick turnaround must offered which will create a timely problem for the shelter. As my research and case studies proved, nature and agriculture can become a key component of the shelter.

project framework

The location for such a shelter could essentially be in any urban or suburban area because of the large homeless population. The world is only becoming more populated while the amount of available land is shrinking. With this said I wanted to choose a city that is rapidly growing and is becoming more difficult to self-sustain due to it. I also wanted a location that is constantly under housing chaos because of external factors such as natural events.

Delhi, India

Delhi is an enormous state that is divided into many districts that are currently being restructured by the city trough a master plan that is to be fully implemented by 2021. The current layout keeps the population fairly even with New Delphi and the Central zone being most dense.

As the map shows, the Yanuba River divide part of Delhi and provides floodplains for fertile farming. When choosing a specific area for my Homeless Shelter I wanted to find a location where: Transportation resources are easily accessible for social advancement Agriculture is not directly adjacent so that the shelter production can be more utilized.

Figure 22. Map of Delhi with Sepcific Area Selected

Residential areas are nearby so that a quick connection can be made with that community.

The area is dense in order to promote positive shelter operations in hope of a better reputation.

Industrialization has taken place for possible employment, but also future development in case of brownfield creation.

Image 19. Akshardham Temple

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Delhi, India

Commercial

Introduction

Background

case studies

project framework

As my criteria for site selection was mentioned above, a lot of factors went into my decision. The map shown to the right represents the cities programmatic layout currently and also in the future master-plan.

I ďŹ nd the masterplan for Delhi very inuential for I can predict how the future of the site is going to develop. The location chosen is mostly comprised of residential areas while some industries are present. The industries become a large part of long term phasing for if Delhi were to every become victim to post-industrialism, the shelter could consume the site and use it for agriculture. On that note, there is no nearby agriculture which will help the shelter in its quest for production and consumption by nonresidents. There is little commercial development around the area which will help the residents grown in a more calm environment.

The site provides enough resources to sustain but also is subtle enough for positive growth and gradual social advancement.

Greenscape

Residential Industrial Figure 23. Map of New Delhi with Site Selected and Surrounding Program

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Bibliography Books - Kaplan, Rachel and Stephen Kaplan. The Experience of Nature. Cambridge: Cambridge University Press.

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- Ellen, Ingrid, and Brendan O’Flaherty. How to House the Homeless. New York, NY: Russell Sage Foundation, 2010. Print.

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Online sources - Seaman, Greg. “Top 6 Most Cost Effective Vegetables to Grow.” Organize Garden n.pag. Earth Easy. Web. 2 Oct 2013. <http://eartheasy.com/blog/2011/01/top-6-most-cost-effective-vegetables-to-grow/>.

- Bachman, Megan. “Saving Energy the Passive Way.” Community Solutions n.pag. Organiz Consumer Association. Web. 2 Oct 2013. <http://www.organicconsumers.org/articles/article_15581.cfm>.

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Bibliography

- Bargh, John, and Katelyn McKenna. “The Internet and Social Life.” Yale University. Yale University. Web. 3 Nov 2013. <http://www.yale.edu/acmelab/articles/Internet_and_Social_Life.pdf>.

- Bloomberg Rankings, . “The Real Cost of Going Green.” Consumer Spending n.pag. Bloomberg. Web. 2 Oct 2013. < http://www.bloomberg.com/consumer-spending/2012-04-20/the-real-cost-of-goinggreen.html - “Department of Housing and Urban Development.” (2013): n.pag. The Budget. Web. 2 Oct 2013. <http://www.whitehouse.gov/sites/default/files/omb/budget/fy2014/assets/housing.pdf>.

- Source: National Law Center on Homelessness and Poverty, . “Homelessness.” Poverty Stats n.pag. Statistic Brain. Web. 2 Oct 2013. <http://www.statisticbrain.com/homelessness-stats/>.

Charts - Figure 1. National Alliance to End Homelessness. Projection of Homeless Population Change. Mother Jones. Nov. 4th. Web. Chart. Figure 1. <http://www.motherjones.com/mojo/2011/09/recession-induced-homelessness-about-skyrocket.> - Figure 2. Center on Budget and Policy Priorities. House and Senate Cuts to HUD Budget are Dispoportinately Deep. off the charts. Nov 3th. Web. Chart. <http://www.offthechartsblog.org/congress-cuttinghud-budget-as-homelessness-grows/.> http://www.offthechartsblog.org/congress-cutting-hud-budget-as-homelessness-grows/ - Figure 3. U.S. Conference of Mayors. Top Three Causes of Family Homelessness According to City Officials. Institute for Children, Poverty and Homelessness. Nov 2nd. Web. Chart. <http://www.icphusa.org/ index.asp?page=55&americanalmanac=2&story=76&pg=330.> - Figure 20. India Map. Top Tour Guide. Nov 23. Web. Map. <http://www.toptourguide.com/toptour-indiamap.htm> - Figure 21. The Evolving Urban Form: Delhi. Delhi Urban Area Population:1951-2011. New Geography.

Nov 3rd. Web. Chart. <http://www.newgeography.com/content/002545-the-evolving-urban-form-delhi.>

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Bibliography

re 22. District Map of Delhi. North East Delhi. Wikipedia. Nov 20. Web. Map. < http://en.wikipedia.org/ wiki/North_East_Delhi> - Figure 23. Master Plan of Delhi. Master Plan of Delhi (MPD)-2021. Delhi Development Authority. Nov 26.

Web. Map. <http://www.dda.org.in/planning/mpd-2001.htm#> References - Flynn, J.E. (1977). A study of subjective responses to low energy and non uniform lighting systems.

Lighting Design and Application 7(2), 6-15.

- Boubekri, M., Hull, B.R. and Boyer, L.L. (1991). Effect of sunlight penetration on ofďŹ ce occupantsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; mood and satisfaction: a novel way of assessing sunlight. Environment & Behavior 23 (4), 474-93 - Kaplan, R., & Kaplan, S. (1987). The garden as restorative experience: A research odyssey. In M. Francis & T.T. Hester (Eds.), The meanings of the garden: Conference proceedings. Davis: Center of Design Research, University of California.

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â&#x20AC;&#x153;Bleak, dark, and piercing cold, it was a night for the wellhoused and fed to draw round the bright fire, and thank God they were at home; and for the homeless starving wretch to lay him down and die. Many hunger-worn outcasts close their eyes in our bare streets at such times, who, let their crimes have been what they may, can hardly open them in a more bitter world.â&#x20AC;?

-Charles Dickens, Oliver Twist