**my project was 1 of 7 selected to represent Philadelphia University in the competition**

From Project Brief:

"West Philadelphia is a vibrant and culturally diverse neighborhood which benefits greatly from the University of Pennsylvania’s presence and commitment to structured (planned) urban growth. Like many urban universities, Penn has committed financial and social resources to enrich the west Philadelphia neighborhood which it borders and in which many of its students, faculty, and administrators reside. This area is strongly supported by public transportation, a strong commercial presence, bars and restaurants, parks and open space, and tree-lined streets but it is also home to a sizable population of homeless and / or jobless individuals and families."

"For approximately 25 years, our “client” has been providing daily meals and other essential services to those in need through a number of local churches, synagogues, educational centers, and other support groups. Almost all of their funding is realized through volunteered labor, donations, fund-raisers, and small grants from local religious organizations and institutions. Much of the food is donated or prepared by volunteers in their homes but a small outdated kitchen and commercial sized refrigerator are available at a nearby church when needed. This organization currently serves a population of approximately 110 persons and provides a hot meal on Sunday and Monday, Wednesday through Friday evenings, and sandwiches at noon on Saturday. In addition, several outreach, educational, and job placement services are also available but designated spaces and amenities for such services are neither currently available nor supported."

"This year’s John Stewardson Memorial Scholarship in Architecture seeks visionary and environmentally responsible proposals which exemplify a culturally engaging and socially responsive ecological model of urban sustainability and community leadership for this vital organization. In addition, this project further seeks to create a fully sustainable net- zero environment which encourages empowerment and leadership among its guests and illustrates its mission to be “More than a Soup Kitchen”."