Great River Landing is a housing development designed by 4RM+ULA to provide stability and support for 72 adult men recovering from the traumas of unemployment, homelessness, and incarceration. Located in a challenging, industrial area near bridges and freeway off-ramps, the project addresses the deep needs of marginalized individuals in a city marked by racial inequities. In response to community input and extensive engagement, 4RM+ULA shifted the focus from conventional amenities, like basketball courts, to creating spaces that prioritized family connection, personal growth, and communal living. The design includes classrooms, meditation spaces, meeting rooms, and lounges—environments that foster healing and re-integration into society.‍

‍With a modest budget and a site fraught with challenges, 4RM+ULA applied our architectural expertise to create a building that exceeded expectations for affordable housing. We invested in quality finishes and indoor amenities while integrating sustainable features, including a rooftop solar photovoltaic system. The building’s design, featuring a simple modern aesthetic with fiber cement rainscreen and aluminum storefront systems, reflects a commitment to dignity and long-term sustainability. Since its opening in 2019, Great River Landing has served as a transformative space for hundreds of men, offering a safe, supportive environment that helps them transition back to family and community life. It is not just a housing project, but a vital home for those seeking a second chance.