Kearney Emergency Services Center, Tallahassee Florida
Art by Judith Rushin.CRA Architects.
Informed by research
Building physical facilities is expensive, and is best driven where possible by research findings. Conclusions from neuroscience, cognitive psychology, interior design, architecture and social work are but a few areas that contribute to how we might build thoughtfully and effectively. Here you will find research summaries, books and resource lists to aid your knowledge.
Further reading
This report provides background on issues important to the design of shelters, day centers and similar places that assist people who are unhoused such as space planning, color and lighting. It includes an executive summary and extensive reference list.
Examining important architectural and interior architectural design considerations in detail within emergency shelters, transitional shelters, permanent supportive housing, day centers, and multi-service complexes such as space planning choices, circulation and wayfinding, visibility, lighting, and materials and finishes, it provides readers with both curated conclusions from empirical knowledge and experienced designers’ perspectives.　
A brief annotated list of deeper-dive sources on trauma-informed design, TED talks, advocacy organizations and guidelines documents.