The MADWORKSHOP Homeless Studio focused specifically on the area of transitional housing, and temporary, modular, and expandable solutions. “We designed a comprehensive course that gives students real-world insight into the complexities of the problem of homelessness,” said David C. Martin, co-founder of MADWORKSHOP. “Students had the opportunity to work with local agencies, city officials, artists, and activists to develop a holistic solution to tackling homelessness in Los Angeles.”

Practical problem-solving and real-life cases formed a large component of the semester that was devoted to the design of a 30-bed modular shelter for women for Hope of the Valley Rescue Mission in the San Fernando Valley. Students worked directly with CEO of the organization, Ken Craft, to develop thoughtful solutions to help the organization manage their increasing number of residents. The studio also heavily featured hands-on fabrication workshops, and included the creation of large­-scale prototypes and the completion of a series of tiny homes for the homeless.

Visiting lecturers included experts and pioneers Michael Maltzan, architect and creator of several supportive permanent housing projects; Ted Hayes, homeless rights activist and creator of Dome Village in Downtown Los Angeles; Gary Blasi, Professor of Law Emeritus at UCLA known for his extensive work in public interest practice; artist and tiny house builder Greg Kloehn; Jon Szabo, City Librarian of the Los Angeles Public Library who has championed innovative library services that address critical community needs; and Betty Kwan Chinn, a pioneer of community- based housing solutions and day centers for the homeless of Humboldt County, CA and recipient of the Presidential Citizen’s Medal, awarded by President Obama.

Students made numerous site visits to key local agencies such as the Skid Row Housing Trust, LAMP Community (Los Angeles Men’s Place), and Downtown Women’s Center, among others. The class also had the opportunity to speak and engage with people experiencing homelessness and the recently rehoused to get their perspective and learn firsthand about their visions and barriers towards housing.

The efforts of this course are documented in the publication Give Me Shelter, available at a bookstore near you.

Video by: PLANE-SITE