Social Justice Design Tour: Meet the innovative architects and partners behind the new Restorative Justice Hub in SOMA

How can we use space for healing? We invite mission-driven designers and allies to join us at Designing Justice + Designing Spaces’ recently completed restorative justice space for Community Works in SF’s SOMA district to learn about the community-engaged process and innovative partnerships that made it happen! In this volatile time when justice is under attack,  it is more important than ever that we shine a light on stories of hope, creativity, and collaboration in our industry and beyond. 

DJDS is an architecture and real estate firm harnessing the power of the built environment to end mass incarceration. After 25 years of transforming lives in the Bay Area through programs rooted in humanity and healing, Community Works partnered with DJDS to establish its first San Francisco office—a dedicated home for critical services that support people at every stage of involvement in the justice system, from prevention to reentry. The 6,000-square-foot sanctuary represents a radical alternative to the criminal legal system; instead, it provides an empowering space where individuals can thrive and feel safe.

At this event, you’ll have the opportunity to see, touch, and experience trauma-informed design in action, and meet the cross-sector team that made this innovative project possible, including industry leaders such as Turner Construction. We’ll share more about how we were able to collaborate with values-aligned partners at every stage of the project, from acoustical engineering to custom furnishings. The event will kick off with tours and a cocktail reception, followed by a panel discussion and Q&A with key partners, including:

• Deanna-Van Buren, Co-Founder and Executive Director, Designing Justice + Designing Spaces 
• Adrienne Hogg,  Co-Executive Director, Community Works
• Chelsea Wong, Project Manager, Turner Construction
• Emily Pilloton-Lam, Founder and Executive Director, Girls Garage
• Sasha Plotitsa, Founder and CEO, The Formr
• Rashanda Udekwu, Director of Strategic Partnerships, Waymo (Formerly of CRI) 

Event Surprise! We will unveil a limited-edition furniture piece designed by DJDS and Formr. Proceeds will benefit A New Way of Life, a nonprofit organization that provides housing and support for formerly incarcerated women.

Photo: Jordan Park