CONSHOHOCKEN, Pa. – IKEA US this week opened an in-store model of permanent supportive housing units (also known as tiny homes) built using sustainable materials and trauma-informed design principles. did.
The model, installed in its Live Oak, Texas, store, reflects what IKEA describes as an “empathy-based approach” to creating spaces that consider the needs of people who have experienced trauma.
“With an estimated 3,155 people experiencing homelessness in the San Antonio region, we have a role to play in creating an environment that supports healing, reduces the risk of re-traumatization, and promotes the overall well-being of all residents. It is extremely important that we fulfill this goal.” IKEA Live Oak Market Manager Keena Garcia said:
To bring this model to life, IKEA collaborated with WestEast Design Group. WestEast Design Group is a San Antonio-based architecture and interior design firm specializing in projects addressing homeless facilities, child advocacy centers, and affordable housing communities. IKEA also collaborated with Town Twin Village, a local organization working to end chronic homelessness through a combination of tiny homes, apartments, and RVs.
Once the in-store phase of the study is complete, IKEA will use the results to construct tiny homes built with trauma-informed design principles and donate them to local permanent supportive housing communities in San Antonio. WestEast Design Group’s Social Her Impact works with her studio to measure outcomes from the individuals who live in their spaces and collect data that helps advocate for trauma-informed approaches.
Ultimately, this project hopes to create an industry standard for developing affordable and supportive housing spaces that foster and sustain a path to healing and stability.
“Home is more than a physical space, it’s a place where you can find comfort, peace and a sense of belonging,” said Sam Eisenman, IKEA U.S. Sustainability Business Partner.