Beyond Shelter: Navigating the In-Between with Third Spaces for Individuals Experiencing Homelessness

Nikki Catanzariti // Frances Temple-West

Beyond Shelter: Navigating the In-Between with Third Spaces for Individuals Experiencing Homelessness

Individuals experiencing homelessness exist in a dichotomy that is enforced by stereotypes and manifests in a limited scope of services, even in major metropolitan cities like Philadelphia. Homeless vs. Housed – it is a distinction that dictates the types of environments people can, or should, inhabit. For individuals experiencing homelessness, shelter is not the only solution. Spaces for the in-between, that are designed for a population in transition in order to help them heal, establish stability, and create networks within their communities, are missing. This project aims to bridge this gap through the design of an interconnected network of third spaces designed to support and empower individuals experiencing homelessness at three scales: individual, group, and community. Spaces that treat all people with dignity and respect, meeting people where they are currently instead of waiting for them to navigate crises alone, is an essential first step to fostering stronger, healthier, and more inclusive communities for all.