portland, ME

Preble Street Elena’s Way

Architect: Kaplan Thompson Architects

About

Elena’s Way is a 24-hour Wellness Shelter designed to provide warmth, safety, and dignity for up to 40 individuals experiencing homelessness. The thoughtfully designed interior features light-filled common areas, curved half-walls, radius-edged fixtures, calming colors, and skylights. A curved Alaskan yellow cedar fence encloses a private courtyard where residents can enjoy fresh air.

Sustainability

Committed to sustainability, the shelter operates without fossil fuels, using air-source heat pumps, a heat recovery ventilation system with HEPA filtration, and energy-efficient LED lighting. Its electrical needs are met entirely by an off-site community solar array funded through generous donations.

Two women conversing in a modern room with a vibrant mural wall.
People enjoy a sunny day outside a modern building with vibrant yellow accents.
Spacious, modern office lounge with comfortable seating and bright lighting.
Modern and bright office space with employees engaged in discussions.
People chatting on a bench by a modern parking structure.
Spacious modern office with people collaborating and working at tables.
Modern dormitory with aligned beds, crisp bedding, and exposed ceiling pipes.
Bright, modern room with two people on twin beds using laptops under cozy lighting.
Three people chatting on a bench in a newly constructed urban park area.
Spacious, well-lit dormitory with blue beds and clean design, showcasing quality construction.
Two women using mobile devices on blue cushioned tiered seating in a modern airy space.
Alt text: People mingle near modern urban building entrance, showcasing lush greenery and open spaces.
Modern multi-bed facility interior with neat blue bedding and exposed ceiling elements.