Texas-based architecture and interior design firm Michael Hsu Office of Architecture Michael Hsu Office of Architecture and Austin nonprofit Project Transitions have unveiled a first look at Burnet Place, a 61-unit residence that will servee local residents with HIV and AIDS.
As the only direct provider of housing for people living with HIV in Central Texas, Project Transitions serves clients by providing housing, comprehensive support services, recuperative care, and hospice.
Twelve of Burnet Place’s units will be for people at or below 30 percent of the Austin median family income; will be for those at or below 40 percent MFI; 37 units will be for those at or below 50 percent MFI; and nine will be set aside for residents who are designated as chronically homeless. Eleven of the units are fully ADA accessible, and the rest can be converted to support accessibility.
Communal areas on the ground floor provide space for social services, telemedicine consultations, community events, and shared dining; there’s also an elevated porch "with a treehouse feel captures summer breezes and offers sweeping views of the neighborhood, encouraging openness to the larger city,” according to a press release.
Project Transitions is the developer and will serve as property manager and provider of wrap-around supportive services. MHOA led architecture and interior design plans for the project — including its spaces for community, multifamily and residential services — with the organization's mission in mind, according to the release.
"Our primary design goal was to provide a safe space for community and healing that supports the incredible programming of Project Transitions,” MHOA's Maija Kreishman, AIA said. “At the heart is a warm and welcoming courtyard with a sunlit porch, community garden and quiet walking paths. We hope that we've created a home where residents can feel comforted and supported, and where they can thrive."
Texas’ iconic armadillo inspired the design, which has " a hard, protective outer shell protect[ing] a warm, open and welcoming courtyard space,” MHOA said. "This rugged, public-facing façade offers privacy and security from the adjacent neighborhood.” The inside courtyard has community gardens, outdoor seating and paths designed by local firm Nudge. Drophouse designed bicycle storage for the residences, which are also near public transit stops.
