Structure House

A collaboration with George Braddock of Creative Housing Solutions, LLC

This home is located in a semi-rural setting on a large property. The design encourages residents to make their own choices. Sharing the grounds keeping and responsibility for the common spaces and participation in the domestic activities and chores of the household create a sense of personal responsibility and community.

Residents who will live here have histories of criminal behavior and involvement with the legal system as weill as developmental disabilities. Issues might include assault, trespass, theft, drug offences, sex offenses, vandalism, or fire setting. It is likely that some people who move here will transition to more independent settings later. The routines, structure, and safety of this setting may help people decide what they want and develop the capacity to obtain it.

Independent buildings with connected roofs form an enclosed courtyard. This courtyard layout creates a well-defined setting that supports privacy, independence, accountability, and meaningful choice. Living in single room occupancy cottages lets residents control their private space. Each unit has independently controlled heating and cooling systems, personal entertainment center, private bath, and kitchenette.

There are many things to do here. Within this setting there are spaces that can be adapted or modified to accommodate the inevitable changing interests, capabilities and preferences of residents over time. There is a shop, an implement shed, a garden, and a work yard. There is a basketball court, fountain, barbecue area, and indoor/outdoor recreation areas large enough to entertain friends.

The physical design of this home supports a structured life for residents who have been behind the 17’ fence at Porterville, Developmental Center. The challenge of this type of project is to find a large appropriate site that is not near a school but not remote from the community, social life, job opportunities and appropriate support services.