Creating safe urban environment for homeless youth from dysfunctional families

Abstract

The development of the architectural and urban planning project of the Public Administrative, Educational and Residential Complex on the territory of the existing center for homeless youth and teenagers from dysfunctional families (TOY) in Charlotte, North Carolina, USA, required thorough pre-design research. The specifics of work in this Center and the specifics of the lifestyle and problems of the visitors of the Center required both a study of the existing situation in the Center and of similar projects. Design for Social Justice - Studio from Clemson University (USA) was engaged in the development of research methods, research conduction and the formation of conclusions for the further stages of the project. As a result of in-depth interviews, observation on site, focus groups and participatory games with employees and young visitors to the Center, it was possible to form a unique Program and a Brief for designing the new complex that reflects the basic needs and requirements of future users. All decisions were agreed with at every stage of the development. A number of architectural and urban planning projects was carried out based on the Brief and an exhibition was held to attract attention and sponsor funds for the realization of the project.