There isn’t a specific ideal size for a shelter, but shelters with approximately 25 or more beds are able to achieve economies of scale, and shelters with fewer than approximately 40 beds are generally considered to be at a more “human scale”. Shelters with 40 or fewer beds are also preferred from the perspective of infection prevention amidst the pandemic. It is recommended that the City try to have shelter facilities with 25-40 beds, where feasible. At least one shelter for each population group should be low-barrier.
Shelter design
As a result of COVID-19, some shelters have had to change their configuration of space. There may be a need for remodelling in the future to allow for long term physical distancing while achieving spatial efficiency, or a need to close certain facilities and redevelop non-congregate shelter facilities. For any new shelter facilities, flexibility in the shelter design will be important to ensure changing needs are met to avoid functional inadequacy, and to minimize costs of change. Layouts, plumbing, and electrical components should be designed to permit amalgamation of two sleeping rooms into one small apartment with a bathroom and kitchenette, and flexible support spaces should be designed to convert/change to different functions over time.
The recommended format for sleeping accommodations is single beds in small rooms. However, multi-bed sleeping accommodation may be required where space is limited. The recommended maximum number of beds per room is four. The four-bed format should be able to be reconfigured as a three-bed layout that includes a shower and toilet, with a separate since in the location of the fourth bed. The three and four-bed configurations should also offer the opportunity for two rooms to be combined into a small apartment. Having some one and two-bedroom configurations can help accommodate individuals who need their own room to self isolate or couples, individuals with disruptive sleeping patterns, or other behavioural issues. Where possible, shelters should also consider providing flexible space for surge periods and extreme weather conditions, that includes the provision of overflow areas for sleeping mats.
Minimum recommended floor areas are:
Single bed – 3.0 m x 3.9 m (9.8 ft x 12.8 ft), with or without washroom
Single bed – 3.9 m x 4.0 m (12.8 ft x 13 ft), fully accessible, with or without washroom
Two-bed – 2.8 m x 4.3 m (9.2 ft x 14.1 ft), without washroom
Three-bed – 3.5 m x 5.3 m (11.5 ft x 17.4 ft), with washroom
Four-bed – 3.5 m x 5.3 m (11.5 ft x 17.4 ft), with no washroom
While it can be tempting to incorporate other housing, such as transitional or supportive housing, within the same facility as a shelter. Proximity of a shelter to can be challenging for some residents attempting to move away from the street, and towards permanent housing and independence. Where other housing is provided on the same site, it is recommended that clients not share entrances, elevators, or other facilities, with a shelter.