Located in Long Island City, Queens, this new, 127,000 SF, 6-story purpose-built, family shelter brings 150 studio, 1-br, and 2-br units to homeless families. Codeveloped by Urban Builders Collaborative (UBC), Bowery Residents' Committee (BRC), and the Department of Homeless Services (DHS), the project aims to offer a secure and supportive environment with onsite counseling, medical, and childcare services. The building’s design meets the challenge of balancing bright, transparent communal areas with calm, private residences. Its layout emphasizes clear sight lines and access to nature, fostering safety and wellness for the multigenerational residents.

On 11th Street, a glazed vestibule and large storefront windows create a welcoming, transparent entry, allowing clear views of the street from the security desk. Past the lobby, a visitor’s lounge beside the security desk creates a comfortable, defined setting for visitors to meet with residents. The ground floor houses a family intake office, daycare, classrooms, and a landscaped, three-tiered courtyard with a sloping path bridging a 7' grade change. Classrooms open to a lower yard with play structures, while the intake office connects to the upper yard with seating. Courtyard access is also available from the elevator lobby.

At the cellar level, a double-height, daylit lobby connects to the social services suite, positioned along 40th Avenue where the site’s grade brings the cellar above street level, enabling window openings and daylight access. The cellar also accommodates 19 parking spaces and building services. Residential floors (2–6) share a consistent layout, each with a meeting room, staff post, laundry, and trash room to support daily living. With three elevators, the building ensures convenient, family-friendly access for residents.

The building features a dark grey brick base and vertical brick elements that breakdown the façade. As the brick wraps around the corners, it transitions into a cream-colored EIFS arranged in an oversized honeycomb pattern, adding depth and texture to the façade. The project follows 2020 Enterprise Green Community Standards.