This new shelter will provide a stable home base for women and families with children experiencing homelessness. The new development is a partnership between The Sophia Way, the New Bethlehem Project of Catholic Community Services, the City of Kirkland, and other local faith communities. The shelter will be the first permanent shelter on the Eastside open 24/7 to provide stable support for those in need. It will have 100 beds and services such as shower and laundry facilities, food, and supportive case management services, and on-site medical and behavioral health services.
As a member of the design team, Nakano Associates provided landscape architectural services and coordinated site tree protection. The shelter is located on a wooded site with mature Douglas Firs. Protecting and saving as many trees as possible and using Pacific Northwest native plantings will ensure the shelter has peaceful setting and fits into the suburban Kirkland community. To support the services provided at the shelter, the landscape design features small seating and gathering spaces sizes for two individuals to small groups. The landscape is designed for low-maintenance, especially important to this client with very limited resources.
Location: Kirkland, Washington
Client: Catholic Community Services
Architect: Environmental Works
