Pine Street Health and Housing

Currently under construction, Crossroads Health and Housing at Pine Street is a new five-story independent and permanent supportive housing building containing 35 1-bedroom and studio apartments, as well as ground floor offices/retail space and community space. 

Developed for people with multiple chronic health conditions making them high users of subsidized health care and emergency rooms, the design employs multiple techniques to support healing and well-being, as well as to accommodate a variety of physical and cognitive disabilities. Additionally, the design is fully compliant with the City of Providence’s Transit Oriented Development zoning overlay.

Design considerations range from the large the the small.  A protected, fenced healing garden features lush greenery and a path to encourage walking, and spaces to encourage socialization. A large ground floor community room opens onto the garden and can host community events. A shared laundry area is adjacent to a dayroom where residents can gather.

To maximize the powerful positive effect of daylight, views to the outside are prioritized in the hallways and common areas. Hallways are designed to provide a welcoming threshold to each door  and provide shared space for book and game libraries. 

All spaces are designed to be easily maneuverable for those with mobility challenges. All units meet accessibility clearances and with universal design features above and beyond code requirements. Cabinets, faucets, and door handles can be used without grasping. Operable windows at reachable levels are provided throughout ensure ample fresh air. Every apartment includes a private bathroom and a full-sized kitchen.

The building is very energy efficient, and free from fossil fuels to optimize use of off-site solar. All-electric air-source heat pump systems will provide heating and cooling. Ventilation is designed to serve each individual room to avoid spread of airborne disease. The building is fully sprinklered, and every unit includes an intercom for communication with on-site staff.