Martin, A. (2023, December). Housing and Healing: The role of trauma informed design in the supportive housing sector. In Transformative Change in the Contested Fields of Care and Housing in Europe, Linz, Austria.

The Elwood Project is an affordable housing development and includes forty-six apartments and supportive housing services provided by Sea-Mar Community Services. All apartments are subsidised through the Vancouver Housing Authority, so that tenants pay thirty-five percent of their income towards rent, according to public housing designation. There are garden-style apartments to allow residents to choose when and where to interact with neighbours. Units are 37 sq. m. with 1 bedroom. These apartments are fully accessible and amenities include a community room, laundry room, covered bike parking, and outdoor courtyard with a community garden (Housing Initiative, 2022). This case highlights the benefits of trauma informed design (TID) in the supportive housing sector. These homes were built using concepts of open corridors, natural light, art and nature, colours of nature, natural materials, design with commercial sustainability, elements of privacy and personalization, open areas, adequate and easy access to services. With these thoughtful techniques, Elwood offers socially sustainable help for vulnerable people (people with special needs, homeless, formally homeless) and for the new “housing precariat”. The Elwood project is a good example of combining private apartments with opportunities for community living, where services and facilities management contribute to the well-being and stability of dwellers. What makes this project especially unique is that it does not look like affordable housing. As Brendan Sanchez concluded, people think that it “looks like really nice market rate upscale housing”, which is empowering, because people in general “deserve access to quality-built environment and healthy indoor interior environments”. Access Architecture did not design it as affordable housing, they just “designed it as housing” (Access Architecture, 2022). Affordability aspects The Elwood affordable housing community project is in a commercially zoned transit corridor. Existing planning regulations did not allow building permits in this area. Elwood is the first affordable housing development in the city of Vancouver that has required changes to the city’s zoning regulations. As a result of these changes, other measures have been adopted to promote affordable housing in the community. Under the city's previous building regulations, it was simply not possible to obtain a building permit. The Affordable Housing Fund helped developers to undertake this project and provided tenants with budget friendly housing options (Otak, 2022). Now, thanks to the Elwood project, there are ongoing talks at the Board of the Planning Commission of Elwood Town to get construction permits for similar projects. As the council stated, “it is on the horizon for all towns to have affordable housing” (Elwood Town Corporation, 2022). Although the population of the area is small, it is estimated that in the coming years the need for more affordable housing units will increase. Previously, permitted uses were limited to C-2 (general commercial, office and retail) and C-3 (intensive service commercial) zoning uses (e.g., gas station, restaurant, public utility substation). Currently, the members of the town council together with other stakeholders are negotiating new plans for affordable housing in the area. With the help of the community, they are striving to harmonise the legal, political, financial and design aspects and work on a general plan that includes the construction of multi-family affordable dwellings. In addition, the ultimate goal is to further modify zoning regulations to incorporate tax advantages for social housing. Sustainability aspects It is a highly energy efficient building as it meets the minimum requirements of the Evergreen Sustainable Development Standards (ESDS), which include requirements for low Volatile Organic Compounds (VOC) content, water conservation, air sealing, and reduction of thermal bridges. It also meets the Green Point Rated Program requirements. The building materials are bamboo, cork, salvaged or FSC-Certified wood, natural linoleum, natural rubber and ceramic tile. There are no VOC adhesives or synthetic backing in living rooms, and bathrooms (Otak, 2022). Design Access Architecture used an outcome-based design process during the development of this project. The outcome-based design process considers TID principles to lower barriers among tenants and minimize stigma of receiving services. Brendan Sanchez from Access Architecture highlights that TID is a kind of design that is “getting a lot more attention now that people understand it more. It applies in this project, and we’re also just finding that it doesn’t have to be a certain traumatic event we design for. It can also be a systemic problem — we all have our own traumas we’re working through, especially after the events of the pandemic last year. So Access likes to focus on how we can create healing spaces in this kind of design.” (Nichiha, 2022) As Di Raimo et al. (2021) wrote, trauma informed approaches can be adopted by a wide range of service providers (health, social care, education, justice). In this case, Sea Mar-Community Services Northwest’s Foundational Community Support provides guidance for tenants with the help of case managers. Such partners can help with professional and health objectives. CDM Caregiving Services helps (or offer assistance) with daily tasks from cooking to cleaning and hygiene. Finally, Vancouver Housing Authority members help with anything they can, so that tenants would not feel themselves alone with their problems (Nahro, 2022). Elwood offers informal indoor and outdoor spaces which provide a relaxed atmosphere in a friendly milieu. In this building, TID suits the resident’s needs. The building was planned with the help of potential residents and social workers, so that a sense of space and place would provide familiarity, stability, and safety for those who are longing for the feeling of place attachment.

Mason Place is a permanent supportive housing development in the city of Fort Collins, Colorado, US, developed by Housing Catalyst, that uses trauma-informed design to create a safe and supportive environment for residents. It is a home to individuals who may have been suffered both short and long-term periods of homelessness while ten units are reserved for veterans (Housing Catalyst, 2021; Kimura, 2021). For over five decades, Housing Catalyst has been a cornerstone of the Northern Colorado community, unwavering in its commitment to providing accessible and affordable housing solutions. Through innovative, sustainable, and community-centric approaches, Housing Catalyst has developed and managed over 1,000 affordable homes, becoming the largest property manager in the region (Housing Catalyst, 2021). Housing Catalyst plays a pivotal role in administering housing assistance programs, serving thousands of residents each year. With a steadfast focus on families with children, seniors, individuals with disabilities, and those experiencing homelessness, Housing Catalyst tirelessly strives to make homeownership a reality for all (Housing Catalyst, 2021). To create Mason Place, Housing Catalyst gave a new purpose to an old movie theatre by designing it with trauma survivors in mind. This resulted in a building with a skylighted atrium, large windows in units and common spaces, live plants, and wooden skirting board to create a calming environment. Case managers (on-site service assistants provided by the Homeward Alliance) worked with residents to develop and implement individualized plans to address their unique needs. This included assistance with finding employment, accessing healthcare, and securing permanent housing. Case managers also provided support and encouragement for residents to develop the skills and helped them to gain confidence (Homeward Alliance, 2021). David Rout, executive director of Homeward Alliance, said:  “When it comes to our community's ongoing effort to make homelessness rare, short-lived and non-recurring, developments like Mason Place are the gold standard. It will immediately provide dozens of our most vulnerable neighbors with a safe place to live and the supportive services they need to stay housed, healthy and happy” (Coloradoan, 2021). Homeward Alliance, a non-profit organization that provides a continuum of care in Fort Collins, provided two case managers at Mason Place, who worked with individuals and families to develop plans to address their long-term needs, and to help residents with Activities of Daily Living (ADLs), such as using the bus system, proper personal hygiene, and cooking, as well as Instrumental Activities of Daily Living (IADLs), among them,  accessing treatment for mental health issues, applying for a job, and obtaining healthcare benefits. In addition to case management, Homeward Alliance also provided a variety of support services, including mental health services, substance abuse treatment, employment services, and other needed care. Affordability aspects The affordability of housing has been a long-standing priority for the city of Fort Collins. As highlighted in the city plan (City of Fort Collins, 2023), and also in the housing strategic plan (City of Fort Collins, 2021), housing affordability is a key element of community liveability. The Transit-Oriented Development (TOD) overlay zones, such as the College/Mason corridor to the South Transit Center are used to encourage higher-density development in areas that are well-served by public transit. These zones typically have additional land use code standards, such as higher density requirements, mixed-use requirements, and pedestrian-friendly design standards. One of the provisions of the TOD is the allowance of one additional story of building height if the project qualifies as an affordable housing development and is south of Prospect Road. This allows the developer to build more units in exchange for 10% of the units overall being affordable to households earning 80% of Area Median Income (AMI) or less. This provision is designed to increase the supply of affordable housing in TOD areas, which are typically located near public transit and other amenities. By allowing developers to build more units in exchange for providing affordable housing, TOD areas become more accessible to lower-income residents. In addition to increasing the supply of affordable housing, TOD can also help to achieve other sustainability goals. For example, encouraging people to live in those areas helps to reduce vehicle miles travelled and air pollution. Overall, the TOD provision is a win-win for both developers and communities. It allows developers to build more units in desirable locations, and it helps to provide inclusive and affordable for all residents (City of Fort Collins, 2021). As the community continues to grow, a significant portion of the population is struggling to afford stable and healthy housing. Nearly 60% of renters and 20% of homeowners are cost-burdened (City of Fort Collins, 2021)., meaning they spend more than 30% of their income on housing. Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC) and low-income households are disproportionately affected by this issue, with lower homeownership rates, lower income levels, and higher rates of poverty (City of Fort Collins, 2021). The city facilitates affordable housing to promote mixed-income neighbourhoods and reduce concentrations of poverty. In 2018 Housing Catalyst submitted a funding application to the Colorado Housing and Finance Authority's Low Income Housing Credit programme and the construction started in 2019. Currently, Mason Place provides affordable housing, in form of low-income apartments, and coordinated services to help people stabilize their lives and move forward. Housing Catalyst works closely together with the National Equity Fund, which is a nonprofit organization that delivers new and innovative financial solutions to expand the creation and preservation of affordable housing. According to the Fund, everyone deserves a safe and affordable place to live. Their vision is that all individuals and families must have access to stable, safe, and affordable homes that provide a foundation for them to reach their full potential (National Equity Fund, 2022). Mason Place houses the disabled and homeless, including military veterans earning up to 30 percent of the area median income, or about $16,150 for a single person.   

Developed by One Small Thing in collaboration with Snug Architects, Hope Street represents a groundbreaking effort to reimagine supportive spaces for individuals affected by cycles of crime and incarceration (Snug Architects, 2023). One Small Thing is dedicated to transforming the justice system through impactful, small-scale interventions. The organization delivers gender-responsive, trauma-informed programmes in both prison and community settings, shifting the perspective from blame to empathy. Their mission focuses on understanding individuals' experiences rather than labelling them, fostering a compassionate and healing process. Design and Objectives Hope Street's design comprises two main structures: a public-facing hub and a residential building, connected by a therapeutic garden. The public hub includes a coffee shop, consultation rooms, a therapy suite, offices, and communal living spaces. The residential building offers eight shared flats for women and their children, as well as additional therapeutic and communal areas. The design is intended to evoke a homely atmosphere, using materials such as buff brick, green zinc, and vertical oak to create a warm, welcoming environment. Large windows, skylights, and biophilic patterns enhance the calming ambiance and strengthen the connection to nature. Consultation and therapeutic spaces are designed to ensure privacy while maintaining an open, inviting feel (Snug Architects, 2023). From the street, the two-story CLT building, clad in brick, appears as a cluster of three houses, making the larger structure feel more relatable and human-scale. Every detail, from the rounded wooden front door handle to the interior elements, has been thoughtfully designed to avoid any institutional feel. A secondary entrance facilitates discreet transitions from police custody into a warm, inviting intake room. The interiors are characterized by spaciousness and intimacy, with abundant natural light and soft, home-like finishes. The Hope Suite, a counselling room, features an exposed wood structure that adds warmth to the double-height space, which has been compared to a chapel for its calming and spiritual atmosphere. The main lounge's fireplace serves as a visual focal point and a gathering space for residents. Acoustic design was prioritized to ensure privacy and comfort during sensitive conversations (Snug Architects, 2023). The building operates 24/7, but instead of using harsh security features like CCTV, the design focuses on natural surveillance and spatial planning, allowing for privacy while fostering a sense of freedom and safety. Deep CLT walls give a sense of security, while large windows maintain openness and connection. Shared spaces are positioned near the street, while residential units—eight shared flats that house up to 24 women and their children—are safely set at the back of the building. The balconies overlook a serene courtyard, providing residents with a peaceful outdoor space that connects them to nature (Snug Architects, 2023). Design Features and Trauma-Informed Solutions Creating Positive First Impressions The design immediately communicates safety and welcome. By dividing the buildings into smaller, house-like structures rather than large blocks, the environment feels domestic rather than authoritarian. The use of buff brick, green zinc, and oak connects the building to its surroundings, fostering a sense of belonging. Building Trust Through Non-Institutional Design The architecture of Hope Street intentionally avoids institutional characteristics. Snug Architects chose soft textures and biophilic elements like natural light and plants to create a home-like atmosphere that fosters calm and trust among residents. Empowering Through Space The design includes individual living spaces, each with secure access, to reinforce autonomy. Shared spaces, such as the therapeutic garden, offer opportunities for both solitude and community, which are essential for trauma recovery. Therapeutic Gardens and Natural Healing The therapeutic garden, designed in collaboration with Harris Bugg Studio, is a key feature of Hope Street. Its design, inspired by the structure of a birch tree, symbolizes hope and provides secluded areas for reflection as well as communal spaces for building relationships. This connection to nature is integral to reducing stress and enhancing mental well-being. Fostering Autonomy in Residential Spaces Each resident has her own secure living space within the shared flats, which helps foster a sense of control and autonomy. The flats are designed to mirror typical community living spaces, complete with kitchens, lounges, and private bedrooms. Accessibility was prioritized, with ground-floor flats designed for wheelchair users and family-friendly accommodations. Affordability and Integration Supported by various funding mechanisms and land use policies, the project was able to reduce costs and ensure timely completion. One Small Thing collaborated closely with local authorities and funding bodies to secure financial support and navigate planning regulations. The strategic location within a residential community, rather than a remote area, underscores the commitment to integrating residents into society and facilitating access to essential services and amenities. Supportive policies, including expedited development reviews and density bonuses, enabled the delivery of high-quality, affordable housing tailored to residents' needs. Commitment to Sustainability Hope Street is poised to achieve the highest BREEAM 'Outstanding' rating, reflecting One Small Thing's dedication to environmental responsibility. The project features exceptional thermal insulation, air source heat pump technology, maximized natural daylight, and a cross-laminated timber frame, which all contribute to reducing environmental impact. Impact and Future Implications According to Lady Edwina Grosvenor, founder of One Small Thing, Hope Street embodies a commitment to humanity through its mission and design. It provides access to trauma-informed specialists addressing mental health, domestic violence, and substance abuse, along with personalized support programmes. By reducing unnecessary incarceration and minimizing maternal separation, Hope Street aims to prevent crime at its roots and reduce intergenerational trauma. After a twelve-week stay, women can transition to one of the organization’s eleven Hope Houses for continued community support and reintegration. Hope Street illustrates the potential of architecture to play a vital role in healing. By integrating trauma-informed principles into its design, the project offers a replicable model for justice systems worldwide to create spaces that heal rather than harm. As Alex Scott-Whitby noted, “We hear of the architect as being a doctor of space, and this is an example of architecture that is healing people.” This project sets a compelling precedent for future trauma-informed renovation and construction efforts, particularly in supportive housing. By embedding trauma-informed principles into architectural design and service delivery, Hope Street provides a blueprint for creating spaces that support the healing and rehabilitation of vulnerable populations.