It was a show of extreme home makeovers at the Alexandria Community Shelter as a redesign team came in and “redesigned the nonprofit beyond the blueprint,” to make it a more comfortable atmosphere for residents.

“It makes a noticeable difference for the residents,” said Michiko Yoon at Carpenter’s Shelter.

The shelter partnered with “Beyond the Blueprint,” to change the look of the shelter with brighter paints, new flooring and furniture which in turn, changes the perception of shelter. The once sterile-looking office environment now is colorful and inviting with deep greens, yellows and plants to enhance the environment.

“Beyond the Blueprint’s shelter makeover project goes beyond redesigning spaces — it’s about fostering environments where survivors of trauma can find hope and begin to heal.” said Tianna M. Spratley, Founder & Executive Director of Beyond the Blueprint Foundation.

One of the residents agreed. “The ambiance, the color, the walls, the brightness and the vividness of the colors and atmosphere, it inspires you,” he said.

The Carpenter’s Shelter team worked with the City of Alexandria to operate the Alexandria Community Shelter, and that agreement with the city will go on for three years, said Yoon. This makeover came by partnering with local sponsoring businesses such as All Green Pros, Amazing Listing Photos, Monarch Paint Benjamin Moore Paint Store Alexandria, Bob’s Discount Furniture, Charles Graves Painting Company, Floor & Decor (Alexandria Store), Professional Floor Installer, Revival Rugs, Williams Professional Painting and WoodUpp.

The Carpenter’s Shelter has been operating in Alexandria since 1988, helping more than 700 temporarily unhoused individuals last year alone. The goal is to transition those they serve to permanent housing. Carpenter’s Shelter has evolved into a leader in finding solutions that permanently end and prevent homelessness.

Beyond the Blueprint is a Northern Virginia nonprofit that inspires needy individuals and families through interior design. They do shelter makeovers, training and a program called “Moving It Forward,” to help those that have already been placed in housing find the skills to convert it to a place they can call their own. 

“From selecting furniture to arranging decor, our team supports survivors every step of the way, ensuring each space reflects their strength, resilience, and newfound hope,” BTB said on their website.