The Search for Shelter

This report describes the response of the American Institute of Architects' Housing Committee to the homeless crisis in the United States. Based on information shared at two conferences held by the Committee in 1985, this publication examines the question of how to provide secure, dignified shelter for those with little financial resources. It includes a foreword, preface, and eight sections. Section 1, "Urban Nomads," surveys the dimensions of the homeless situation. Section 2, "Paths to Homelessness," discusses societal factors that have contributed to the problem. Section 3, "A Safe Haven," reviews available and desirable kinds of housing. Section 4, "Dignified Shelter," examines criteria for design and service aspects of shelters for the homeless. Section 5, "The Right to Shelter," explores community and government response to the needs of the homeless. Section 6, "Who's Responsible," calls on architects to involve themselves in the creation of shelter. Section 7, "Crucial Choices," contends that American society must commit itself to the care of its disabled and homeless. Section 8, "Case Studies," describes design and services of 33 shelters for the homeless in the following categories: (1) emergency shelters; (2) special needs-transitional shelters; and (3) long-term housing. Each case study includes project descriptions and such information as project size, costs, and information on architects and sponsors. A 25-item bibliography is appended. (AF)