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A PLACE meant

Co-organized with
Lutheran Metropolitan Ministry

Jun 28-Dec 29, 2024

How can Cleveland use emerging design solutions to address displacement and affordable housing challenges in our city?


A PLACE meant explores innovations in affordable housing at the nexus of environmental responsibility, energy efficiency, and contemporary design. Co-organized with Lutheran Metropolitan Ministry (LMM) and Humanitarian & Founding Principal Sai Sinbondit of I_You Design Lab, the exhibition presents material and image-based examples of accessible housing approaches taking shape across the globe. From modular housing that can be constructed with limited tools to container homes made from existing vessels to 3D printed homes that can be erected in a few days, the exhibition reflects on the city's housing history while encouraging shifts that could make Cleveland a center of design innovation in the future. The exhibition, located throughout moCa’s ground floor from July-December 2024, will be accompanied by a series of free public events and intergenerational education programs to teach about and inspire a commitment to creative affordable housing in our community.How can Cleveland use emerging design solutions to address displacement and affordable housing challenges in our city?


This project ties LMM's 55th anniversary and its ever-expanding focus on housing and shelter solutions through pioneering initiatives like Breaking New Ground and the Solar Homes of SC that underscore the importance of collaboration, innovation, and community engagement to address systemic issues. As Cleveland grapples with the challenges of affordable housing and displacement, moCa, LMM, and Sindondit take a proactive design approach to offer dynamic solutions to help create a more inclusive and sustainable future.


About Lutheran Metropolitan Ministry

Founded in 1969, the mission of Lutheran Metropolitan Ministry (LMM) is to promote shalom (peace, well-being) and justice (right relationship) through a Christian ministry of service and advocacy with those who are oppressed, forgotten and hurting. LMM’s founding began as an ecumenical response, started by the Lutheran Church, to the urban uprising that took place on the East Side of Cleveland in the mid-1960s. Over the last five decades, LMM has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to addressing chronic needs, enabling people in our community facing adversity to become self-sufficient, and advocating for systems change. Our programming focuses on innovative and effective services in the areas of Guardianship, Housing & Shelter, Workforce Development, and Youth Resiliency.

About i_you design lab

I_You Design Lab is a 501(c)3 not-for-profit collective made up of artists, makers, and designers dedicated to the betterment of people and environmental through leveraging research and design as tools to address fundamental needs, dignity, local community’s health, and environmental stewardship. We partner with individuals, communities, and other nonprofits through projects that fundamentally elevate the quality of lives of those who are displaced and under-served. I_You Design Lab is governed by a board of directors who advise on the organization’s strategy, operations, and paths to meet to the organization’s mission.


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