Durham County Youth Home

Rehabilitation instead of mere confinement drives the purpose of the Durham County Youth Home. The 36-bed facility replaced a dilapidated structure that had served the community for nearly four decades yet failed to meet basic needs of detained juveniles. Moseley designed this 41,055-square-foot building with both rehabilitation and sustainability as primary goals.

Creating Supportive Environments

Larger, brighter areas throughout the building support both physical and mental health. This practical approach recognizes that despite poor choices, these young people deserve dignity and appropriate care. The layout includes various sized pods, including a four-room section offering more individualized accommodation when needed. Wall-to-wall soft flooring aids in acoustics while visually softening what would traditionally be a hard environment.

Spaces for Growth and Development

Specific areas within the facility aid rehabilitation efforts. Dedicated classrooms continue education during detention. A basketball court provides space for exercise and physical development. An assessment center serves at-risk youth with targeted interventions. These practical elements address juvenile delinquency through education, activity, and personalized assessment.

Health and Wellness Integration

Medical rooms allow on-site staff to deliver improved health services previously unavailable at the old facility. This healthcare integration demonstrates how building design can provide complete care for vulnerable populations. Access to natural daylight in bright spaces throughout the building supports overall wellness—a principle reflected in every aspect of the facility's layout.

Sustainable Building Excellence

The U.S. Green Building Council awarded the Durham County Youth Home LEEDv4 Platinum certification—the highest level available. The building features geothermal HVAC and rooftop photovoltaic systems that reduce energy consumption by 46 percent, saving an estimated $25,000 annually. Low-flow fixtures reduce potable water use by 43 percent, or 255,653 gallons, each year. The construction process diverted 83 percent of construction waste from landfills and restored 45 percent of previously disturbed areas with native or adapted vegetation. Electric vehicle charging stations support sustainable transportation.

Community Connection and Reintegration

Family connections remain crucial for rehabilitation success. The design includes visiting areas that help families maintain contact with detained youth, supporting their eventual return to the community. An outdoor recreation yard balances security requirements with developmental needs of young people in the justice system. Every space serves a purpose beyond confinement, focusing instead on positive change and growth.

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