iheartsf
Village
iheartsf is a brand committed to transforming perspectives and lives with a different and innovative approach to the homeless population. 300 Lake Street, a 6 acre property is the perfect location for iheartsf village. Where we will help teach and guide individuals and families to break the cycle of homelessness for good. A place where individuals and families can come to rest, recover, rejuvenate and gain motivation for life again as they once knew it. iheartsf village will be a self sufficient campus where individuals and families can learn new skills, improve on past skills, and remember and regain the independence that they once had. iheartsf village will feature everything one would need to regain that independence in a nurturing environment where their story will be heard and the guidance they receive will receive will be tailored to their individual needs.
Goal:
Design a humane, scalable transitional housing campus
that supports individuals and families experiencing
homelessness with dignity, stability, and pathways to
reintegration.
that supports individuals and families experiencing
homelessness with dignity, stability, and pathways to
reintegration.
Site:
• ~6-acre property
• Campus-style layout with residential clusters, shared
services, and outdoor recreation
• Designed for phased growth and long-term adaptability
• Campus-style layout with residential clusters, shared
services, and outdoor recreation
• Designed for phased growth and long-term adaptability
Program Component:
• Modular living units (individuals + families)
• Emphasis on privacy, safety, and durability
• Emphasis on privacy, safety, and durability
Common & Outdoor Spaces:
Community dining & gathering areas
• Secure play areas and recreation zones
• Courtyards, gardens, and walking paths
• Secure play areas and recreation zones
• Courtyards, gardens, and walking paths
Support & Services:
• Case management & counseling
• Childcare / education / job training spaces
• Health & wellness rooms
• Administrative and staff areas
• Childcare / education / job training spaces
• Health & wellness rooms
• Administrative and staff areas
Design Approach:
• Repeatable, modular prototypes
• Clear public → semi-private → private zoning
• Human-centered, non-institutional design
language
• Clear public → semi-private → private zoning
• Human-centered, non-institutional design
language
Deliverables:
• Site master plan & massing model
• Living unit + common space prototypes
• Final 3D models and renderings for proposal
• Living unit + common space prototypes
• Final 3D models and renderings for proposal
Concept
1. Color Palette:
- Warm neutrals: soft beige, cream, warm gray
- Accent tones: muted blues, greens, or
terracotta (calm, grounding, inviting) - Natural textures: wood, rattan, linen, cotton
2. Furniture & Layout:
- Flexible and modular: small sofa + folding table, stackable chairs
- Durable but comfortable: upholstered seating, resilient flooring
- Compact but efficient: storage under beds, wall shelves
- Family-friendly: safe corners, minimal sharp edges, child-height shelving
3. Lighting:
- Natural light maximized: large windows, light curtains
- Soft artificial light: warm LED lamps, ceiling fixtures with diffused light
- Task lighting: reading lamps for beds or desks
4. Materials & Finishes
- Soft textiles: rugs, cushions, curtains for warmth
- Natural wood & laminates: tables, shelving, flooring
- Easy-to-clean surfaces: countertops, washable paints
5. Decorative Elements
- Artwork / murals: subtle, cheerful, uplifting
- Plants / greenery: small indoor plants to improve air and mood
- Personalization opportunities: wall hooks, pinboards, space for residents’ own items
6. Space Planning
- Defined zones: sleeping, working/study, small seating area
- Visual separation: rugs, partial screens, furniture arrangement
- Open circulation: clear pathways for safety and accessibility
Design Scheme — Transitional Housing Concept
Objective:
Create warm, welcoming, and functional spaces that support residents’ dignity, safety, and social interaction.
Key Principals:
- Human-Centered: privacy, comfort, and adaptability for families and individuals
- Modular & Flexible: repeatable living units and communal spaces for efficient use of resources
- Warm & Natural: neutral palettes, wood and textile textures, natural light, greenery
- Functional & Durable: easy-to-clean materials, safe and accessible layouts
- Community-Oriented: shared dining and recreation spaces that encourage connection
Visual Elements:
- Living units: compact, cozy, with storage and personal space
- Communal spaces: long dining tables, soft lighting, inclusive design
- Decorative touches: plants, murals, artwork, and personalizable elements
