This homeless shelter in London is set on the grounds of a former supermarket. Intuitively dubbed 'Shelter from the Storm,' the project was overseen by Holland Harvey Architects who looked toward facilitating a welcoming and nurturing environment.
The social good-focused space boasts a total of 42 beds. In addition to a place for sleep, Shelter from the Storm will also offer individuals "freshly cooked meals and rehabilitative support." To amplify these good deeds and strengthen the experience through aesthetics, Holland Harvey Architects attempts to communicate "sensitivity, domesticity, and warmth." As a result, a warm color palette is used and contemporary sensibilities are accented.
Moreover, this homeless shelter in London seeks to make a difference. Thus, an integrated cafe is open to local residents during the day "in a bid to encourage open channels of discussion between the general public and society's vulnerable."
Photo Credits: Nicholas Worley
Converted Homeless Shelter Projects
Holland Harvey Architects Boasts a Homeless Shelter in London
Trend Themes
1. Homeless Shelter Regeneration - As more disused buildings can be repurposed, there is opportunity to turn them into shelter and community centers for the homeless.
2. Integrated Community Outreach Programs - By offering an integrated approach which includes community outreach programs, shelters can improve healthcare, job training, and counseling services for the homeless.
3. Sustainable Mass Shelter Designs - Developing sustainable shelter designs and energy-efficient retrofitting innovations that reduce environmental impact and long-term shelter sustainability will be beneficial to communities in need.
Industry Implications
1. Architecture - Architects can produce sustainable and efficient designs for mass homeless shelters, which can offer better amenities and integration with surrounding communities.
2. Social Care Services - By improving internal support programs, social care services can create more effective care and outreach networks for the homeless and other vulnerable individuals.
3. Hospitality - By integrating local cafes into homeless shelters, hospitality businesses can facilitate communication channels between the homeless and society, while also boosting community engagement, experiences and support.