The Bus Shelter Dorset is a registered charity offering rough sleepers with a local connection to the area somewhere safe to stay. In January 2018 they set out a double-decker bus with individual bunks to provide warmth and support to rough sleepers. Providing both physical and mental support to them for the duration of their stay.
In 2020 Newspace was asked to consult on a full design and build concept for housing 12 adults in temporary accommodation. The space was to provide somewhere roots could be established, support and guidance would always be available and the community spirit associated with the bus could continue to grow.
Keeping to a modest budget Newspace offered an array of bespoke units; with the client opting for 14 over height units at 9 foot wide. The units were designed to allow them to be transported in pairs helping keep delivery costs to a minimum.
12 of these units were set out as bedrooms with ensuite shower rooms to provide a safe and secure space for each individual.
The two remaining and slightly larger units gave the charity its first dedicated secure office space and further communal space to be used as a learning/games room. Both the open-plan office and games room were flooded with natural light by the addition of roof-mounted skylights.
