Initial Thoughts
Supported accommodation for young people, e.g., care leavers, homeless, released young offenders. A community feeling central space with on-site staff. Self-contained flats and sperate learning workshops/studio spaces. The residential neighborhood would be 'selfsustainable' in that once a skill was taught, the residents would take over the responsibility, e.g., cooking, repairs, farming, etc. The learning for residents would include life skills, work skills, general education, trades. Initial negatives to be considered and addressed: The local community outwith the building could be concerned about some of the residents - the stigmatization of ex-offenders. The expense of the initial build if it is not a currently standing building. There could be a negative social aspect, e.g., violence, teenage dramas, due to the residents - ages and backgrounds. The mental health of some residents could be a factor. Potential vandalism and maintenance would also need to be a consideration. Teenage hormones would also need to be factored into the design due to the nature of the build. Does there need to be some degree of separation between the sexes? Initial spatial thoughts: A central hubfor socialization, with a dedicated support staff zone. Self-contained residential flats with a homely aesthetic. Separate learning zones - either offshoots from the main building or detached buildings. How big does each space need to be? Initial design ideas: A large open plan double-height central hub with an indoor-outdoor feel, e.g., large floor to ceiling clear windows. Residential flats could be customized to some degree by the residents to give the space a feeling of belonging, e.g., magnetic walls for hanging posters. Studio style learning spaces, e.g., a cooking studio, could be divided into kitchenettes with a central zone for the staff members to use while the classes are in session.
