THE DETAILS

Virginia Supportive Housing (VSH) is a remarkable non-profit organization that provides apartments for the formerly homeless population. While statistically many of the tenants are at high-risk of becoming homeless again, VSH works to end this pattern by providing not only permanent housing, but also individual case management services. Through this process, they are able to help people reclaim their lives by addressing the conditions that cause homelessness such as mental illness and substance-related disorders. The New Clay House II continues their mission by offering 80 apartment units along with 3,100 square feet (SF) of administrative offices for on-site services to the residents. 

The process for developing this project was complicated. The project needed a special-use permit and neighborhood support to receive zoning approval. The application for historic rehabilitation tax credits included an 18,000 SF existing historic structure plus a 35,000 SF addition. The physically restricted site had deteriorated buildings in need of complete restructuring. Ruins on the site were removed as well, and an existing spring well and beer tanks were required to be included in the design. 

The Carver neighborhood, contrary to normal NIMBY responses, voiced support for increasing the existing unit count from 47 to allow a total of 80 new housing units. VSH received financing from 25 different entities, including an anonymous gift of $1 million. Many of these organizations had specific design requirements regarding accessibility, energy, environmental design, and longevity of interior and exterior finishes. While fulfilling these varied preconditions, the new four-story addition blends with the original two-story structure. 

The facade and massing of the addition recedes into the Carver residential area in deference to its historic neighbors. Structured parking tucks into the center of the block, providing 26 on-site parking spaces and bicycle storage, while the 3,000 SF courtyard above creates an outdoor area for residents to call their own. The construction meets the sustainability requirements of Viridiant with electrical solar panels mounted on the roof of the addition and a solar hot-water system on the existing building. 

Carver, a central city district immediately adjacent to VCU, is a neighborhood that is proud of its diversity. The New Clay House II, as a great neighbor, is a recipient of Carver’s hospitality. The renovation of the former New Clay House building has provided new vitality by saving the adjacent deteriorated historic structures while also providing indispensable housing for some of our most vulnerable citizens.