The ambitious program for the new home of the Amherst Survival Center required accommodating a 7000 SF building and 28 parking spaces on a mere 1.15 acre steeply sloped lot. Additional requirements included separating public and service entries, accommodating a 30' truck turning radius, providing accessible entrances, and detaining stormwater on site. These were all successfully achieved while also creating welcoming outdoor gathering spaces that take advantage of views and existing shade. Reinforcing the mission of this soup kitchen, the landscape planting plan features trees, shrubs, and groundcovers that are edible and provides plots for annual crops of vegetables and herbs for both in-house cooks and clients.

(Project designed with Elizabeth Thompson, RLA)