I’m working on an affordable housing project in the Tenderloin in San Francisco where these photos were taken. The neighborhood is tough, and going in the building can be very emotional to see people really struggle. But coming up to this little haven at the courtyard reminds me of how even in what can be a tough environment, they’re able to craft beauty and bring life into their spaces. I appreciate people who make space for the elements to cultivate life around them. It’s an honor to work with them and see those sparks of joy even if they’re few and far between. Being an architect on these types of projects is challenging, but if I don’t do anything else, I want to honor the spaces that they themselves have curated and manifested into their home.
