Situated at the intersection of two major collector streets, the site allows residents quick and easy access to a variety of important locations. Since most residents do not have a driver’s license or car, access to public transportation is critical. The site is located on a Bus Rapid Transit line with easy access to downtown Nashville and Vanderbilt Medical Center. As part of their holistic, restorative approach to care, Dismas relies on access to public resources such as healthcare and open space. Graphic designed by EOA Architects. (File: AAE_DismasHouse_Submission2024-14879 and DISMAS HOUSE_LocatorMap)

A large retaining wall along the North property line was used to create space for adequate parking and also to provide visual and acoustical separation from the active rail line below. Image by Nathan Pedigo. (File: AAE_DismasHouse_Submission2024-14879 and DISMAS HOUSE_Aerial)

In addition to street setbacks and rail line clearances, multiple utility easements and steep existing topography firmly defines the remaining buildable area. Bedrooms and social spaces are bumped out to provide additional space and to create rhythm on the façade. Planes are expanded from the bumps and given an accent color to generate hierarchy. Graphic by EOA Architects. (File: AAE_DismasHouse_Submission2024-14879 and DISMAS HOUSE_SitePlan)

Sunshades were added to the outer facades and provide depth to accentuate the planes while also protecting the large bedroom windows from direct sun. Image by Nathan Pedigo. (File: AAE_DismasHouse_Submission2024-14879 and DISMAS HOUSE_Exterior 1)

The site was built up to allow for sufficient parking, which also created a secluded outdoor dining area that is separated from the rail line and busy street. Image by Nathan Pedigo. (File: AAE_DismasHouse_Submission2024-14879 and DISMAS HOUSE_Exterior 2)

The main, open stair serves as the primary connection between levels and is centrally located to encourage interaction among residents and staff. A tall glass wall was used to create a visual connection to and from the street beyond. Image by Nathan Pedigo. (File: AAE_DismasHouse_Submission2024-14879 and DISMAS HOUSE_Interior 1)

Residents enjoy multiple programmed activities including boxing classes in the community room. Image by Dismas House. (File: AAE_DismasHouse_Submission2024-14879 and DISMAS HOUSE_Interior 2)

The community room features two large islands that provide work space for group dinners. The residents take turns working together to cook dinner for everyone, as well as have volunteers come in and cook dinner for them. The community room features large tables that are used for communal meal times but also put away for activities such as yoga or boxing. Image by Dismas House.(File: AAE_DismasHouse_Submission2024-14879 and DISMAS HOUSE_Interior 3)

Resident working with Dismas House staff to prepare for the workplace. Image by Dismas House. (File: AAE_DismasHouse_Submission2024-14879 and DISMAS HOUSE_Interior 4)

Volunteers for Dismas House stand proudly in the grand atrium entrance. Image by Dismas House. (File: AAE_DismasHouse_Submission2024-14879 and DISMAS HOUSE_Interior 5)

Residents enjoy Thanksgiving community dinner. Image by Dismas House. (File: AAE_DismasHouse_Submission2024-14879 and DISMAS HOUSE_Interior 6)

Residents sitting in the community room listening to instruction for an activity. Image by Dismas House. (File: AAE_DismasHouse_Submission2024-14879 and DISMAS HOUSE_Interior 7)

Friends and family members came in to decorate pumpkins with the residents. Image by Dismas House. (File: AAE_DismasHouse_Submission2024-14879 and DISMAS HOUSE_Interior 8)

A resident enjoys playing with his son who is visiting. Image by Dismas House. (File: AAE_DismasHouse_Submission2024-14879 and DISMAS HOUSE_Interior 9)

Residents enjoying a board game around a table in one of the upper level community rooms. Image by Dismas House. (File: AAE_DismasHouse_Submission2024-14879 and DISMAS HOUSE_Interior 10)

Volunteers during taco night! Volunteers come in to the community room and cook dinner for the residents. Image by Dismas House. (File: AAE_DismasHouse_Submission2024-14879 and DISMAS HOUSE_Interior 11)

Residents enjoying a game of chess. Image by Dismas House. (File: AAE_DismasHouse_Submission2024-14879 and DISMAS HOUSE_Interior 12)

Residents enjoying ping pong on one of the community room tables. Image by Dismas House. (File: AAE_DismasHouse_Submission2024-14879 and DISMAS HOUSE_Interior 13)

Residents enjoy one of their programmed activities – learning to make pasta from scratch. Image by Dismas House. (File: AAE_DismasHouse_Submission2024-14879 and DISMAS HOUSE_Interior 14)

Professional barber and former resident helps the current residents prepare for job interviews by getting a clean haircut. Image by Dismas House. (File: AAE_DismasHouse_Submission2024-14879 and DISMAS HOUSE_Interior 15)

The community room tables can be rolled away for programming activities such as boxing or yoga. Image by Dismas House. (File: AAE_DismasHouse_Submission2024-14879 and DISMAS HOUSE_Interior 16)

Resident sits with loving therapy pets brought in by Dismas House. Image by Dismas House. (File: AAE_DismasHouse_Submission2024-14879 and DISMAS HOUSE_Interior 17)

Residents pose in their aprons while cooking for their community. Image by Dismas House. (File: AAE_DismasHouse_Submission2024-14879 and DISMAS HOUSE_Interior 18)