Foster House Homeless Persons Crisis Accommodation
Client: The Salvation Army
Location: Surry Hills, NSW (Gadigal Land)
The Salvation Army approached Constructive Dialogue to support a shift in the service model from crisis accommodation to a therapeutic, case management focus. This required a series of changes to the building including the incorporation of a medicated detox unit, extending the area for engagement and supporting additional services. As part of brief development, the project architect spent significant time participating in the existing service to better understand the needs.A leadership team was then established to guide the design development, which was subsequently able to contribute to a reduction in violent incidents. Key elements of the project were:
- developing a system of personal barriers that allowed the removal of glass screens
- creating a cafe style entry
- establishing a service gateway
- connecting different parts of the building through reconfiguring stairs and the atrium
- configuring the design to promote staff-client interaction