Herb Jamieson Centre
More than just a shelter
operated by Hope Mission, is a purpose-built homeless shelter designed to provide essential emergency support for Edmonton’s most vulnerable. Replacing an outdated facility never intended for shelter use, the new building was nearly a decade in the making. It offers warm, clean, and dignified spaces where individuals can access showers, laundry, and medical care—basic necessities that can help stabilize their lives, even temporarily. While architecture alone cannot solve homelessness, this centre plays a vital role in providing immediate relief while emphasizing the need for long-term housing solutions.
who - HOPE MISSION
When - 2018
where - Strathcona county
what - HOUSE OF WORSHIP
Designed to feel welcoming rather than institutional, the shelter challenges typical views of emergency housing. Large windows bring in natural light, and a rooftop deck offers secure outdoor space. The front plaza was meant for gathering, reflecting a desire to engage, though rising demand has required security fencing.
Unlike traditional shelters that are hidden or unwelcoming, this building integrates into the city—serving as both a place of refuge and a visible reminder of an ongoing crisis.
36000 m2
size
A defining architectural feature
is the pair of large circular windows—symbols of spiritual geometry and place-making. These circles, along with the organization’s name, reinforce the theme of hope, reminding those who enter that their lives matter. More than just a shelter, the Herb Jamieson Centre was designed as a space of care and dignity, reflecting the belief that everyone deserves a place to feel safe, even in their most difficult moments.