Tiny Homes Competition (2016)

Tiny Homes Chicago is an organization seeking to help displaced and disadvantaged youth in the Chicago area.  In 2016 they held a competition seeking designs for the construction of a series of tiny homes on two adjacent lots in Chicago's South side.  The goal?  Provide a place of security and opportunity for teens and young adults looking to complete their high school education or GED but who don't have a home out of which to do it from.  This would be a place to get a full night of sleep, to store your books - to feel in control of your life.  In addition to these tiny homes, the property was to provide community space for events, laundry facilities, and offices for Tiny Homes Chicago staff who will continue to work with the youth in residence. 

For my entry, I sought to create a balanced variety of spaces provided for residents.  The rotated homes divide the site into several small outdoor gardens, while putting them on a double-loaded path creates an inward sense of community.  The units are designed to provide layers of privacy and comfort to give residents a sense of control over their environment - something that may have been a rarity in the past.  Each unit has a double sliding door flanked by windows to allow in generous light and air.  These bright spaces look out over the gardens and can be curtained off for a first layer of privacy.  Even with the shades drawn, light and fresh air are provided by clerestory windows over the kitchen space.  An additional layer of privacy is obtained with a matching curtain at the built-in bed itself, creating a most private keep for rest.