Gabrielle Burley has created an animal shelter for dogs within the chosen site of Sellers Wheel. Through exploring the purpose and process of adoption to understand how animal shelters work, Burley aimed to create a better environment for dogs’ wellbeing while also designing a space that breaks from typical animal care facilities. She has created an inviting home environment, rather than somewhere that reflects a hospital or prison appearance, while also functioning well for its purpose.

“Animal shelters are interesting buildings – they reflect broadly our values and relationship to nature,” said the architect, James Garrison. “The animals we care for are a bridge to the natural world – breaking through our distraction and reminding us of our essential connections,” Garrison added.