In a heartwarming initiative to combat homelessness in Phoenix, Arizona, the city has embraced the innovative use of shipping containers as a compassionate solution.

Earlier this year, the City of Phoenix proudly unveiled the Phoenix Navigation Center, affectionately dubbed the X-WING by architect Brian Stark. This remarkable facility offers 280 beds for individuals experiencing homelessness, providing a vital refuge during the sweltering summer months when the need for safe, cool indoor spaces is paramount.

The new center, which opened its doors this spring, embodies a commitment to supporting those seeking to transition away from homelessness. Mayor Kate Gallego emphasized this dedication, stating, “We’re committed to helping individuals who want to end their homelessness, and this center will navigate them to the right path.” Beyond shelter, the center offers opportunities for employment, mental and physical health care, and case management to empower residents in their journey.

While the concept of shipping container housing is not new, Stark is enthusiastic about enhancing its application. His designs are already a familiar sight across Phoenix, now serving as a sustainable answer to the housing crisis. Each container has been thoughtfully divided into smaller rooms, maximizing space and accommodating more individuals.

Stark shared his vision, noting, “We’re not consuming or producing that steel, it already exists. There’s a huge ability to save. And that’s how I think we have to start thinking that way, is using what we have versus just keep on consuming.” The X-WING, designed with the residents' needs in mind, features four 40-foot steel containers arranged in an inviting ‘X’ shape, allowing for natural courtyards that foster community among residents.

These unique buildings not only provide practical shelter but also boast an aesthetic quality, with their rustic dark orange siding and sleek solar panels. The design creates a nurturing environment while being efficient and quick to build, taking just one week to complete.

“We are grateful for the opportunity to help serve those experiencing homelessness through our partnership with the City of Phoenix,” said Kathleen Santin, a partner at Steel + Spark. The X-WING is a dignified, non-congregate housing solution that is solar-powered during the day and battery-powered at night.

This innovative approach allows for rapid deployment in response to the urgent needs of the community. Mayor Gallego highlighted the importance of collaboration, stating, “Our partnership with Steel + Spark is a great example of that, and directly speaks to how the public and private sectors can work together to make an impact.”

The facility is supported by St. Vincent de Paul and Community Bridges, Inc., which provide essential wrap-around services for residents. Guests at the X-WING benefit from shared restrooms, showers, laundry facilities, and a range of support services, including workforce development and life skills programming, all aimed at helping individuals achieve lasting stability.

As Jessica Berg, chief program officer at St. Vincent de Paul, remarked, “Solving homelessness takes a community effort, creativity, and a willingness to try new solutions.” The collective effort of partners and community members has truly made a difference, as demonstrated by the inspiring story of Jay Spicer, who has found solace in his X-WING room with his dog, Dino. After maintaining sobriety and holding down a job, he expressed gratitude for his new space, saying, “It is my space for now.”

Phoenix Vice Mayor Tassamin Ansari underscored the urgency of creating more indoor shelters for those in need, stating that the X-WING’s air-cooled containers are a critical component of the city’s efforts to facilitate permanent housing solutions.

The success of the X-WING project has inspired Stark to continue exploring shipping container designs for affordable housing. His firm is now developing a 105-unit apartment complex specifically for low-income senior citizens, also utilizing shipping containers.

Stark reflected on the impact of the X-WING, sharing, “It’s great talking to people who are living in the X-WING that say, ‘I can hear myself think for the first time, and I’m improving my life.’ To be part of the solution is great, it's unbelievable.”

This uplifting journey showcases the power of creativity and collaboration in addressing homelessness, lighting the way toward a brighter future for those in need.