Raising Families, Restoring Communities Through Adaptive Re-use Design: Housing for Single Parents in New York

This thesis explores the transformative potential of adaptive reuse in addressing New York’s growing housing crisis, with a focus on creating affordable, high-quality housing communities for single-parent families in Yonkers. As the population of New York continues to rise, housing affordability remains a pressing issue, particularly for low- and moderate-income families. Over half of renters in the region are rent-burdened, spending more than 35% of their income on housing, which leaves limited financial capacity for essential needs such as childcare, healthcare, and food. Single-parent households are especially vulnerable, often struggling to find stable, supportive housing in safe and resource-rich neighborhoods. Yonkers, known for its family-oriented character, reputation for safety, and strong public schools, presents a unique opportunity for intervention. Despite these strengths, the city suffers from a lack of accessible, family friendly housing—especially for single-parent households. This project proposes to repurpose underutilized and vacant buildings into vibrant, community-oriented housing developments that not only provide affordable living spaces but also contribute to the social and cultural fabric of Yonkers. Central to this thesis is the integration of comprehensive support systems—including on-site childcare, job training centers, counseling services, and health and wellness programs—designed specifically to meet the needs of single-parent families. However, the project goes beyond meeting basic needs; it aims to create a model for community empowerment and urban revitalization through architecture. A key aspect of the design strategy involves fostering community engagement and preserving the cultural identity of Yonkers. By embracing the city’s rich artistic heritage and existing creative networks, the project incorporates public art, event spaces, and collaborative studios to invite community participation and encourage cultural expression. Partnerships with local artists, schools, and nonprofit organizations will be established to activate shared spaces and promote intergenerational learning, creativity, and inclusion. Through thoughtful spatial planning, sustainable construction practices, and the creation of meaningful communal spaces, this adaptive reuse initiative supports the development of resilient, interconnected neighborhoods. Shared courtyards and flexible gathering areas are designed to promote interaction, mutual aid, and a sense of belonging among residents. Landscape and streetscape improvements will further connect the development to the surrounding urban fabric, enhancing walkability, safety, and aesthetic appeal. Ultimately, this thesis demonstrates how adaptive reuse can serve as a catalyst for both social uplift and urban renewal—transforming forgotten buildings into dynamic, inclusive communities. It offers a blueprint for how design can play a critical role in addressing housing insecurity while honoring local culture, uplifting families, and restoring vibrancy to cities like Yonkers.