A Safe Place to Land

DignityMoves’ core belief is that every person deserves dignity. The Cherry Avenue site had to offer physical and emotional safety in equal measure.

A Sense of Urgency

While permanent supporting housing provides homes, it’s expensive, slow, and can’t adequately scale. The new residences had to be delivered quickly, effectively, and with care.

Designing Community, Not Just Shelter

Congregate shelters often present barriers that make them feel less like the refuges people need. Cherry Avenue had to feel rooted in its place and balance shared spaces with privacy.

Community Support

Neighbors who initially opposed the project became its biggest advocates, helping it become a meaningful part of the solution to reduce San Jose’s street homelessness.

Designed to Scale

With each community, Gensler has refined its approach and expanded its kit of parts into a flexible design system that adapts to any site.

Resident Experience

Thoughtful design touches, such as pleasant lighting, colorful furniture, and planters, work together to create a place where people are happy to land.