Refuge
Women’s Refuge, Essex (1992)
This project with Harlow Women’s Aid, was an adaptation of an existing women’s refuge. The clients felt that the previous (male) architect had not involved women in design development, and had created a very institutional space. With Matrix, staff and residents’ involvement shaped scheme improvements, both in altering what wasn’t working and in meeting their focus on privacy, security and better childcare facilities.
rear elevation 
original elevation 
original plan 
working model 
rear garden 
front 
quiet sitting room 
creche area 
front 
kitchinettes 
nursery 
nursery garden 
rear 
drying area 
bedroom safe 
circulation area 
defensive planting 
entrance porch 
washing lines 
nursery sleeping area 
wheel chair accessible bedroom 
wheel chair accessible shower 
kitchenette