Meeting The Challenge Of Large-Scale Transitional Housing In Cincinnati

Across the country, there are many organizations making a difference on behalf of those needing shelter. The David and Rebecca Barron Center for Men represents a significant advancement in transitional housing solutions. This impressive 80,000 square foot building serves homeless men aged 18 and older in the Cincinnati, Ohio area, standing as one of the largest and most comprehensive homeless facilities in the Tri-State region.


Part of the city’s “Homeless to Homes” initiative, this state-of-the-art center doesn’t just provide shelter. The facility offers complete services designed to efficiently move homeless people into permanent housing, typically within 30 days, while helping them increase their income.

“It’s designed for our residents and our programming,” explains Shelterhouse Director Arlene Nolan. “It has light, it has space. Every element is designed with our clients in mind.”

Shelter Services All In One Place

Operated by Shelterhouse, an organization dedicated to providing essential human services in the Greater Cincinnati area, the Barron Center offers:

  • 150 beds for overnight accommodations
  • Three nutritious meals daily
  • Individualized case management support
  • Fully operational on-site medical and dental clinics
  • Employment assistance services
  • Housing placement programs

Shelterhouse Executive Assistant Christopher Williams notes that the building is considered state-of-the-art because it incorporates “all of the latest technological advances and equipment which helps create the best possible housing outcomes available.”

Fulfilling The Barron Center’s Furniture Needs

When planning this significant investment in transitional housing, Shelterhouse faced the common challenge of selecting furniture that could withstand constant use while supporting their mission. Their furniture requirements focused on three critical areas:

1. Functionality and Durability

Williams emphasized that the center needed “beds that would allow clients to sleep restfully during the night, and seating that would provide comfortable sitting during the day.” Additionally, given the center’s high traffic and 24/7 operation, they required furniture that could withstand extreme use without constant replacement.

2. Modern Aesthetic Appeal

The center features a modern, minimalist design with exposed ceilings, strategic use of color, and clean lines. The furniture needed to complement this aesthetic while creating a welcoming environment that promotes dignity and respect.

3. Safety and Security

Perhaps most importantly, Williams noted “it was imperative that residents did not have the capability of using the furniture as weapons to harm themselves or someone else.” Furniture that could be broken or torn apart was deemed unacceptable for the facility.

The Norix Solution: Proven Performance

Having previously worked with Norix Furniture in other facilities, Shelterhouse was familiar with the company’s reputation for creating durable products specifically designed for transitional living environments.

“We decided to buy from Norix because we were familiar with the company’s durable products from previous purchases,” Williams explained. “We did not want to constantly repair or replace the furniture and we learned firsthand that we would not be doing that with Norix products.”

In early 2015, Norix Consultative Sales Representative Kevin Carlson met with Shelterhouse officials to showcase newer offerings that would meet the facility’s specific needs.

Common Questions About Furniture for Large Transitional Housing Facilities

What furniture features are most important for transitional housing?

When serving large populations, transitional housing facilities need furniture that balances durability, safety, and aesthetic appeal. As Kevin Carlson explains, “When you go looking for furniture for shelters, you might find products that have a couple of these qualities, but very few that are equipped with all of them.” Look for products specifically engineered for 24/7 use in challenging environments like our Element Seating series.

How can furniture contribute to positive outcomes in transitional housing?

Quality furniture supports both physical and psychological well-being. Comfortable beds promote restful sleep, essential for mental health and daytime productivity. Dignified, non-institutional furniture communicates respect and can positively influence residents’ self-perception and behavior. The Barron Center’s approach demonstrates how thoughtful furniture selection contributes to their goal of transitioning residents to permanent housing within 30 days.

Implementing the Solution

In October 2015, the David and Rebecca Barron Center for Men opened its doors with a comprehensive Norix furniture package that included:

These selections provided several key benefits:

  • Bed Bug Resistance: Critical for community living environments
  • Easy Cleaning: Supports hygiene and maintenance efficiency
  • Durability: Withstands continuous use
  • Modern Aesthetic: Complements the facility’s design
  • Safety Features: Prevents furniture from being weaponized

Results: Satisfied Staff, Comfortable Residents

The furniture implementation has been a clear success. “We enjoy the products and would buy it again,” Williams reported. “During our open house several shelters asked about our furniture and we referred them to Kevin Carlson and Norix.”

Carlson adds: “From what they have told me, everyone loves the products. The staff likes the cleanability of the furniture and the fact that it’s durable and isn’t going to break. And they like the look. It definitely fits in with the design scheme as well.”

By selecting furniture specifically designed for transitional housing environments, the Barron Center has created a space that supports their mission for residents while maintaining dignity and comfort.

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