ShareNYC: a new model for co-housing

This proposed building in Harlem has been designed and developed as the result of the Department of Housing Preservation and Development’s ShareNYC initiative which seeks to explore new models of housing for underserved NYC groups and communities, specifically a co‐housing approach. ShareNYC addresses a critical need for supportive housing for homeless LGBTQIA+ young adults aged 18-25 aging out of foster care. The project is designed for Ascendant Neighborhood Development (AND) in partnership with the Ali Forney Center (AFC).

Think!’s design for ShareNYC's revolves around 8-bedroom duplex living units. Each duplex offers individual bedrooms, with one accessible bathroom for every two bedrooms. Communal areas within the duplexes include shared cooking and dining facilities, double-height living rooms with interconnecting stairs, study areas, and laundry amenities. These spaces are intentionally designed to promote a sense of community and positive resident interaction. The first two floors of the building will house support services for the residents as well as a multi-purpose room opening onto a landscaped garden. Ali Forney Center, the leading non-profit dedicated to LGBTQIA+ homeless youth in the United States, will provide on-site social services for residents. In addition to housing, residents gain access to a wide array of supportive programs.

The project is due to start construction in the coming months.