ONE TREEL HILL

One Tree Hill is a youth-specific overnight shelter and resource center serving young adults (18-24) experiencing homelessness in Essex County, MA. This community is challenged to meet the needs of the growing population of young adults experiencing homelessness, where there are no youth-specific overnight shelters and daytime drop-in centers. Youth have no choice but to stay in adult shelters to receive housing vouchers but find adult shelters unsafe. Hence, they devise solutions such as couch-surfing, sleeping in cars, or living outside, which prevents youth from receiving services to get their life back on track.

One Tree Hill seeks to address this need by providing a holistic approach to young adults experiencing homelessness with a 24-hour resource center. This was informed by a literature review, local case studies, and architectural precedents worldwide. Per scholarship recommendations, the center has low barriers to services for housing, physical and mental health, education, and jobs. The center balances the conflicting needs of stakeholders, such as incorporating designs that help staff ensure safety while meeting guests’ desire for independence. 

The design concept mimics the tree house, characterized by a structure raised off the ground and secured to branches, providing a sense of safety and enclosure. Each service has distinct floors, allowing guests to engage in services individually, while community spaces offer respite and connection to others. By emphasizing home design theories and biophilic patterns, the center supports healing from the debilitating experience of not having a permanent home and support system.