Grow Together
Grow Together is a modular micro-housing project that addresses homelessness in Seattle. The design places compact off-grid shelters in residential backyards, offering transitional housing close to established neighborhoods. Each unit measures 3,000 by 6,000 millimeters and is built from cross-laminated timber and recycled steel for rapid assembly. Solar panels, rainwater filtration and composting toilets support self-sufficiency. Shared greenhouses and flexible communal spaces host gardening and skill-building programs. The layout protects privacy while encouraging social reintegration.
Grow Together Microhome by Yanci Chen was highlighted as an outstanding illustration of communication design by the A' Design Award & Competition. Grow Together Microhome won the Iron A' Design Award in Social Design in 2025. The A' Social Design Award is an international, jury-voted, fair and ethical design prize that rewards outstanding design of community projects, social campaigns, public installations, educational programs, sustainable initiatives, healthcare solutions, inclusive design, cultural interactions and more.
