St. Vincent de Paul Star of Hope

St. Vincent de Paul of Bremerton is embarking on a transformative redevelopment of its aging campus to better serve the county’s most vulnerable residents. The new project, Stella Praespero, introduces a four-story housing building that will provide 38 units of supportive and transitional housing. Designed to foster community and stability, the building includes a large community gathering space, outdoor play areas for children, and convenient access to downtown services and transit. Alongside this new housing, the campus will also expand the existing Stella Maris Women’s Shelter, adding 17 much-needed beds for women and children experiencing crisis.

More than a collection of buildings, this project is envisioned as a holistic ecosystem of support which we are calling The Star of Hope. With resources such as a food pantry, case management, and on-site services, the campus is designed to provide residents with stability, connection, and pathways forward. Guided by the principles of Trauma-Informed Design, the architecture emphasizes safety, dignity, and opportunities for social connection while also maintaining a strong relationship to nature.

Drawing inspiration from water as a symbol of resilience and renewal, the design incorporates thoughtful transitions and calming tones of blue throughout both interior and exterior spaces. This palette and materiality evoke a sense of calm and continuity, reinforcing the idea of a home as not just shelter, but a place of healing, belonging, and hope.