CRRC Development embarked on this project to deliver a purpose-built, new building that provides employment, education and temporary housing programs for families in need of shelter. In addition to 99 residential units, the building also includes dedicated indoor and outdoor spaces centered around education, healthy living and nutrition. The programs include culinary and baking training, employment assistance, afterschool enrichment and recreation and early childhood education, available to residents and surrounding community alike. 

Due to bulk and height limitations for this wedged-shaped lot, early plans called for a full basement to accommodate building services in order to free up program space in the above-grade levels. However, the proximity to the Bronx River and a high water table at the site had the potential of costing the client a substantial amount of money in dewatering and waterproofing, as well as significant schedule impacts. In order to mitigate these concerns, Envoie organized a series of workshops that included dewatering experts, general contractors, geotechnical and environmental engineers, and cost estimators. The group was tasked with evaluating site conditions and outlining the risks and values associated with moving forward with the proposed basement. As a result of this analysis, the client was able to make an informed decision, eventually opting to eliminate the basement, saving a significant amoun in dewatering, soil disposal and potential schedule delay costs. Through this process, CRRC Development was able to weigh what was truly critical to their mission while still accommodating all of the major components of the program.