Hillsboro Year-Round Shelter

Located on the western edge of Hillsboro, Oregon, the Hillsboro Year-Round Shelter will provide congregate and non-congregate sleeping solutions and services for people experiencing houselessness.

The main building includes 36 beds—each located in its own individual alcove and equipped with a light, charging station, and a curtain for privacy. A dining room will serve as a community lounge and a coffee bar, providing guests with coffee and snacks throughout the day. A quiet room is available to aid in de-escalation and provide a space for solitude. The bathroom was designed for maximum safety and privacy, with individual shower and toilet rooms instead of stalls.

In addition to the main building, the Shelter includes 40 sleeping pods, which are arranged around smaller courtyards on the site. The pods provide community, connection, and autonomy.

Trauma-informed design principles were implemented throughout the project to ensure that the Shelter would be a safe and comfortable space for people to get back on their feet. Easy wayfinding and clear circulation informed both the layout of the site as well as the interiors. Wide corridors, no dead ends, and multiple exits support safety for staff and guests. The color palette is comprised of cool tones to provide a calming space, and windows provide natural light.