Since 2015, BSB Design has partnered with Joppa Outreach to support their mission of helping individuals transition out of homelessness in the Des Moines area. What began with the design of a single home has evolved into a full community dedicated to providing permanent, supportive housing.
After more than a decade of planning and collaboration, the Des Moines City Council has approved Joppa Village, paving the way for construction to begin. Located at 2501 Maury Street, the Village will feature 54 tiny homes ranging in size from 192 sf to 803 sf. 50 units will be for formerly homeless residents and 4 will be for staff and volunteers. A community center will provide on-site services, programs and shared spaces that foster connection and stability.
Joppa is an official replicator of Community First! Village in Austin, Texas, a nationally recognized model that provides permanent homes for nearly 400 formerly homeless individuals. The Joppa Village follows this proven approach, emphasizing long-term housing, community engagement and integrated support.
Entirely privately funded through Joppa’s donors and partners, the Village will cost taxpayers nothing and is projected to save the City nearly $3 million each year once the first 50 homes are occupied.
BSB Design provided site planning, home design and architectural development focused on affordability, sustainability and scalability. Our team helped refine the site layout, optimize unit efficiency and design small-scale homes that balance privacy, community and dignity.
This approval represents a major step forward for Des Moines and the next chapter in Joppa’s vision to end homelessness through design, compassion and collaboration. We are proud to continue our partnership and see this innovative model come to life in our own community.
For more details, visit Joppa.org/Village
