THE PROJECT
WE HOST ALLIANCE consists of a collection of small, pre-fabricated housing units situated on a previously vacant, industrial site just west of downtown Oklahoma City, at the corner of NW 4th and Kentucky Ave.
The project is dedicated to supporting individuals in the process of transitioning out of homelessness.
The design aims to rectify deficits in current transitional housing models by optimizing the organization of the site, fostering a sense of personal space and ownership for the tenants, and providing communal areas and opportunities for outdoor recreation.
A total of 38 modular units, named "WEHOST ONE," will form a vibrant urban edge along the street. Planted interior courtyards, spacious communal living areas, and leasable support spaces will occupy the more private areas at the center.
The developer, WE ARE SOCIETY, has partnered with the Homeless Alliance, renowned for its outstanding community programs, to oversee the facility's operations and maximize the project's impact.
"This affordable housing project aims to bolster the Homeless Alliance's ongoing efforts to eliminate persistent homelessness and enhance living standards for the most vulnerable in our city."
Jerry Roca, Founder of WE ARE SOCIETY
the wehost one
prototype unit
Part of the long-term vision for WE ARE SOCIETY is the creation of adaptable, affordable housing models that can be mass-produced and deployed to various areas across the country.
The WEHOST ONE unit was developed in close collaboration with the team at The House Factory in South Oklahoma City, who have already initiated production on other modular construction projects in the metro area.
General Unit Specifications:
1-bedroom SRO unit
Kitchenette with microwave
Mini-split HVAC Unit
Tankless Electric Hot Water Heater
Solar powered
“The staff and volunteer leadership of the Homeless Alliance wholeheartedly support the efforts of WE ARE SOCIETY to develop affordable, accessible housing in Oklahoma City. Staff of the Homeless Alliance worked closely with We Are Society and their partners to develop a plan to create Oklahoma City's first, permanent winter shelter alongside 38 units of SRO-type housing on northwest 4th St. between Kentucky and Indiana Avenues. WE ARE SOCIETY engaged the architects for the project site plan, as well as the attorney to represent the partnership before the Planning Commission and City Council. The project passed both bodies unanimously and, before the City Council, there were no protests, a testament to the growing conviction in the broader community that the way to resolve Oklahoma City's housing crisis is for entities like WE ARE SOCIETY, in partnership with service providers, to develop affordable, accessible housing.”