The residential accommodations offer different natural light options: Clerestory glazing for those who prefer less visibility and full height glazing for those who prefer exterior views. Porches are widened to provide additional gathering spaces while cozy niches give participants areas for contemplative reading and self-reflection. Railings are set back to allow for additional seating and vistas.

Though the initial design included us, the interior designer, the founder and the contractor, the organization’s ‘Voices’ committee provided valuable input throughout the process. These committee members, each personally impacted by trauma, helped shape and develop the architecture and interior design throughout the project.

Based on the Scandinavian word, “Hygge,” the interiors embraced its meaning of ‘tapping into a certain quality of coziness and comfort that engenders a feeling of contentment or well-being.’

The solution includes clean lines and the use of natural or natural-feeling materials like contract quality grass cloth and variations of wood species for interior architectural details, flooring, cabinetry and furniture. The Hygge color palette includes light, monochromatic, neutrals drawn from nature, combined with accents of color to differentiate commercial spaces. The furniture and décor used Scandinavian mid-century designs to create a residential feel.