821 Flats

821 Flats will give homes to 57 residents who have mental illnesses. 

821 Flats is a collaborative effort between Over-the-Rhine Community Housing, who is developing the project, and Tender Mercies, who will own and operate the facility. Jeff Raser led the design team for the project, and his CUDA Studio provided architectural services during construction.

The mission statement of Tender Mercies is to provide housing for people with mental illness that ensures safety and security, while allowing residents to develop personal, social, and economic strengths as they live in an environment that offers a sense of family, yet affirms the individual. 

Raser studied the effects mental illness has on the daily and weekly lives of the people afflicted by such illnesses and their families and caregivers. Realized people with mental illness thrive in an environment that is comfortable and calming – even contemplative – every aspect of the building’s design catered to this ideal.  

Asian and Craftsman Style influences guide the architectural design because these styles lead to relaxing environments. The building is designed in a U-shape which creates an enclosed courtyard garden. This garden will provide an outdoor, contemplative place for residents. 

The interior of the building has community spaces where residents can engage with others in a comfortable setting. The building will have stained wood doors and trim as well as other warm features that give a sense of “home” to the residents.