The Harris Center for Mental Health and IDD Apartments - A New Chapter in Supportive Housing for Houston
RDLR Architects is proud to celebrate the completion of the new Harris Center for Mental Health and IDD Apartments, a transformative housing community that expands access to recovery-oriented living for individuals facing behavioral health and intellectual and developmental disabilities challenges.
Located off the 610 South Loop Freeway in Houston, Texas, the 17,300-square-foot development provides 26 one-bedroom apartments designed for residents transitioning from institutional care to independent living. The community offers a safe, supportive environment where residents can develop life skills, reestablish stability, and foster social connections on their path to long-term recovery.
The new housing complex sits adjacent to an existing one-story mental health facility operated by The Harris Center, which will continue to serve as a vital clinical resource for residents. The site includes two two-story apartment buildings flanking a central community building, along with ADA-accessible units that ensure inclusivity for all residents.
This $12 million project represents a collaborative effort between The Harris Center for Mental Health and IDD, the City of Houston, Harris County, the Texas Health and Human Services Commission, and Community Health Choice. Together, these partners have created a model for community-based housing that helps break the cycle of homelessness and supports individuals as they transition toward greater independence.
The apartments are part of a broader regional initiative to address homelessness and behavioral health challenges through compassionate design and coordinated care. The first residents are expected to arrive soon, many from nearby transitional programs such as the Harris Center’s Jail Diversion Center and Hospital to Home initiative.
Through thoughtful planning, collaboration, and design, this project demonstrates how architecture can play a critical role in advancing health, dignity, and opportunity within our communities.