Siena Francis Emergency Shelter

HDR Architecture

Recognitions: 2020 Central States Region Awards (Architecture)

Project Description

Plans are underway to redevelop the Siena Francis campus, improving and expanding services to Omaha’s homeless population. The first step is to construct a new low barrier emergency shelter. This new 43,000 square foot facility will lodge roughly 350 single men and 100 single women with dignity in a durable and safe space. Currently there are several facilities on the site including permanent supportive housing, a community services building, and an addiction recovery building. The site is in close proximity to all city services and transportation networks including public transportation. The architectural Parti is a single level, simple geometry, organized into zones according to use. The new entry is defined by a large courtyard providing the homeless population an interstitial space between the public street and the building proper. This courtyard is a fundamental component of the design as it provides an exterior gathering and queuing space that is semi-private. Overall, the durable facility provides a safe and dignified place of shelter for those often finding themselves in the most difficult time of their life. Combined with counseling, rehousing, and social integration services, the Siena Francis Emergency Shelter houses more than just people – it houses a sense of hope.