Women’s Center and Shelter
The Women’s Center and Shelter of Greater Pittsburgh creates a Sanctuary environment to help women and children to recover from the trauma of intimate partner violence. Women and children seek shelter and supportive services within the facility in order to begin a new life. The Sanctuary Environment emphasizes clear circulation with continuous connection to natural light, symbolic use of colors and natural materials, and programs that provide a range of private to social spaces with clear transitions between each to allow for the safe restoration of trust amongst the women and children.
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AIA Pittsburgh Design Award
Women’s Center and Shelter
Social Equity in Design Award, 2019
The jury commented:
- We appreciate the process the firm went through to deeply understand the specific needs of this vulnerable and underserved population and integrating those needs into the sanctuary-like design.
- The shelter is equitable and accessible for women – and their children – of any background or circumstance. The project was executed with great sensitivity to the full spectrum of needs, with safety and building trusting relationships at the forefront.
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