Founded in 1974 as the nation’s first shelter for victim-survivors of domestic violence, Women’s Advocates has spent over five decades creating a continuum of safety rooted in radical hospitality, advocacy, and collective action. This project extends their legacy by thoughtfully rehabilitating two 1920s residential buildings in a historic neighborhood, transforming them into healing, accessible, long-term emergency housing for up to 24 adult survivors, their minor children, and pets. Grounded in trauma-informed design principles, the project prioritizes safety, well-being, and empowerment.
The project reinvests in existing neighborhood housing while preserving its historic character. Long-deferred maintenance is addressed through comprehensive exterior repairs, including brick restoration, as well as full upgrades to building systems and life-safety infrastructure. Interior renovations reconfigure units to better support families, incorporating fully renovated kitchens and bathrooms that prioritize durability and comfort, helping reduce stress and support daily routines. The addition of communicating doors between existing units, as well as the introduction of a new two-bedroom layout, increases Women’s Advocates’ flexibility to meet the needs of their community as they evolve.
Accessibility and equity are central to the project’s design approach. A new elevator and entry addition allows for one of the buildings to be fully accessible, ensuring that survivors with a wide range of physical abilities and family compositions can access safe housing without compromise. Interior spaces, including staff offices and community support spaces, reinforce a sense of security and stability. Site improvements include secure outdoor areas, a natural playscape for children, and pet accommodations, recognizing the importance of nature-based environments that support healing and well-being for the entire family.