Homeless youth that have outgrown the foster care system is a group of individuals that are at their most vulnerable and at the same time have received little help. This thesis project is to design a transitional homeless shelter for homeless individuals between the ages of 18-24. The transitional shelter will provide the necessities including shelter and food, and subsequently offer mental, physical, educational, and job assistance services.

The experience of becoming homeless is coupled with the experience of losing a sense of place and belonging in this world (Vandermark, 2007). The transitional shelter’s goal is to design a more humane environment that restores dignity and identity to the homeless youth. The social contrast of the homeless shelter will be investigated in order for the individuals to obtain a sense of home and place (Pable, 2007). Another goal is to lessen the stigmatizing services and offer a positive environment for the individuals experiencing homelessness.