Hope Street, Hampshire

The power of nature to heal 

Conceived by charity One Small Thing, and with gardens designed by Harris Bugg Studio, Hope Street Hampshire is a powerful, pioneering blueprint for a nationwide community-based network of accommodation and services. The aim is to provide a compassionate, therapeutic, positive alternative to the current way women are treated in the justice system.

We have worked in collaboration with Snug Architects and Focus Design to realise the charity’s vision of a purpose-built, trauma-informed centre for women and their children, with a strong emphasis on well-being and for every element to play an active part in the healing journey.

Widespread consultations undertaken across Southampton and Portsmouth meant women had a voice in shaping the design to deliver a home environment that is uplifting, restorative and holistic.

The gardens are intended to work in combination with the built spaces to provide a sense of shelter, protection and calm. They are multi-layered and multi-sensory spaces allowing the residents to fully immerse themselves in the power of nature to heal, raise spirits and improve mental well-being.

“Hope Street stands as a beacon of change in the justice system, demonstrating how architecture and design can contribute to rehabilitation and commnunity integration.” – Civic Trust Award judges

Awards

Housing Design Awards: Shortlisting, 2025

RIBA: South Award, 2025

RIBA: South Sustainability Award, 2025

RIBA: MacEwen Award, 2024

Civic Trust: Civic Trust Award, 2024

Press

RIBA Journal: Hope Street, Southampton

Collaboration

Team: Snug Architects, Focus Design, Calcinotto, Mesh Energy, TAB Landscapes

Photography: Fotohaus