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Dignified Living

Short-Term Housing Facility Sweeps the 2020 Awards Program

Featured Project
  • The Aya by Studio Twenty Seven Architecture / LEO A DALY JV



The Aya

Washington, DC

Studio Twenty Seven Architecture / LEO A DALY JV
Grand Award
Chapter Design Award in Architecture
Washingtonian Residential Design Award

This short-term housing facility, part of DC Mayor Muriel Bower’s initiative to combat homelessness, serves up to 50 homeless families in Ward 6 and architecture—expressed here by unusual ziggurat-like forms, checkerboard openings, and brick façade patterns—was seen as a critical component to make a positive difference for this building type. Dwelling units consist of large rooms with two-to-five beds, a desk, and small living area (some units have en suite bathrooms). Kitchens, dining areas, most bathrooms, and laundries are shared. The facility includes a medical clinic that serves residents and the broader community.

View of The Aya from the street Façade detail showing stepped forms Typical hallway Typical dwelling unit Indoor play area The U.S. Capitol Dome and Washington Monument, as seen through a community room
Project Credits
Structural Engineers: Silman
MEP Engineers: SETTY
Civil Engineers: A. Morton Thomas & Associates, Inc.
Geotechnical Engineers: ECS Capitol Services
Cost Estimators: TCT Cost Consultants
Land Use Attorneys: Holland & Knight
Archaeologists: John Milner Associates
Acoustical Engineers: Acoustical Design Collaborative
General Contractor: Blueskye
Photographer: © Anice Hoachlander/Hoachlander Davis Photography

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