Permanent Supportive Housing

In 2024 Sinclair Hille Architects was awarded a City of Lincoln project specifically intended for those who experience chronic homelessness. This new Permanent Supportive Housing is located at the corner of 8th and J Streets in Lincoln, Nebraska. Across the street from the Justice and Lawn Enforcement Center and Mental Health Crisis Cetner, the two-story residence with 24 dwelling units is a vital addition to the community’s support network.

Trauma-Informed Design played a significant role in the development of the design, as the physical environment can impact one’s attitude, mood, health and well-being. Individuals experiencing chronic homelessness have shown to thrive in spaces that follow some of the basic design principles of trauma-informed design:

Safety & Trust
Community & Collaboration
Choice & Empowerment
Beauty & Joy

A secure front porch and main entry create a welcoming residential feel when entering the building. On the first floor, there are 8 dwelling units that prioritize comfort, safety, and accessibility; as well as common spaces where occupants can gather to relax and build a sense of community. The plan also includes dedicated offices and staff support spaces, ensuring that administrative functions and resident assistance are seamlessly integrated into the daily operations of the facility.

The second floor of the building houses the remaining 16 dwelling units, each designed with the same attention to detail and comfort as those on the first floor.

To the north of the building, a fenced back yard is a versatile area that features room for gardening, allowing residents to engage in outdoor activities and promoting a sense of well-being. In addition to green space, the back yard incorporates dedicated bike storage to ensure that residents have a convenient and secure place to keep their bicycles.

The exterior building design adheres to the Capitol Environ District design standards to reinforce and enhance the continuation of the J Street Mall to the west of the City/County Building. The façade features a blend of brick, metal, and fiber cement siding. The brick provides a classic and enduring look, while the metal accents introduce a modern touch and privacy.

The interior environment balances the need for durability and comfort, creating a space that is both resilient and inviting. A soothing palette of greens and blues throughout fosters a sense of tranquility and expansiveness. Generous windows invite natural light, while warm wood tones bring a touch of the outdoors inside.

This Permanent Supportive Housing project stands as a testament to our commitment to creating impactful and enduring spaces that uplift and support the community.

Project Team:

Engineering Technologies, Inc.

Olsson, Inc.

R.O. Youker, Inc.