The Aya

The Aya is an affordable, short-term family housing site commissioned by the District of Columbia Department of General Services. Located in Ward 6, this neighborhood-based program provides a safe environment for families with access to service-enriched programming that will create stability, helping them exit homelessness.

The joint venture team’s design of the building respects the surrounding neighborhood, including the existing tree canopies, while maximizing daylighting and views for tenants. The building complements the developing southwest Washington, D.C. skyline and creates an optimal living experience for its tenants. The joint venture team engaged extensively with the community throughout the design process, resulting in thoughtful design embraced by the neighborhood.

The site includes fifty family housing units, with seven to ten units per floor. Each floor also contains community rooms, laundry facilities, private and family bathrooms and outdoor play areas. The design of each floor is characterized by a distinct organizing color, which improves the sense community and provides simple wayfinding. Additional amenities include on-site parking, an indoor play and activity space, a conference room, a federally qualified health service clinic and administrative space for staff and providers. The site is designed with several energy-efficient and sustainable features, including a green roof and high efficiency windows, HVAC system and plumbing fixtures.