One of the hallmarks of the University of Kansas School of Architecture and Design is the opportunity students have to provide meaningful community impact while gaining substantial experience in multiple aspects of their disciplines. Every year, third-year architecture students in Arch 509: Designbuild Studio create solutions for community partners through the Dirt Works Studio program, under the guidance of Associate Professor of Architecture, Chad Kraus.
Dirt Works Studio projects have included shade shelters in parks, pavilions on the prairie, small homes and instrumental remodels for KU areas such as classrooms at KU Honors classrooms at Nunemaker Center and the café at Chalmers Hall.
This year, 14 students with the Dirt Works Studio program partnered with Tenants to Homeowners, a Lawrence non-profit that has worked since 1992 to help individuals and families attain affordable housing. The challenge? Create a small, sustainable home with an easily replicated design to serve a member of the Lawrence community transitioning from houselessness to a secure home.
The students met with community partners, collaborated with industry representatives and worked alongside fellow students to create Phoenix House, located on the 1100 block of Oregon Street in Lawrence. The project was named after the mythical bird that arose from ashes which has been a symbol associated with Lawrence since the 1860s.
Student Reese Gilmore of Leawood said that working directly with neighborhood residents to create something that gives back to the local community has been a fulfilling experience.
“The process of designing and building an affordable home has presented many challenges but has also provided unforgettable experiences, such as working with peers, engineers, suppliers and partnering with Tenants to Homeowners to make a one-of-a-kind affordable small home,” Gilmore said.
The small home features highly insulated and air-tight construction, low-maintenance and durable finishes with an energy efficient mini-split heat pump and energy recovery ventilator.
Learn more about Phoenix House and other KU School of Architecture and Design Dirt Works Studio projects.
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