Ribbon Cutting for New Supportive Permanent Housing

On June 12th, local dignitaries, residents, members of the design and construction team, Cambridge Housing Authority, City of Cambridge, and community came together for a ribbon cutting ceremony marking the opening of the Daniel J. Wuenschel Apartments (Dan’s Place).
As permanent supportive housing for formerly unhoused individuals, the project provides 62 studio apartments, common spaces for socializing and gathering, and access to different outdoor spaces all tucked into a dense residential neighborhood of Cambridge, MA. With on-site wraparound services, Dan’s Place offers residents dignity, stability, and the support needed to transition out of homelessness.

“Our support of Permanent Supportive Housing (PSH) reflects our understanding that people may face many barriers to housing and that affordability is only one of them. Other barriers may require long-term support, which is why this type of affordable housing is so important.”
Chris Cotter | Housing Director, City of Cambridge, MA
The development of Dan’s Place included the renewal of a historic 1907 building and its conversion from SROs into studio apartments, and a 25,000-sf addition that further expands the number of affordable housing units on the property while fitting comfortably within its neighborhood. It is the first project completed under the city’s Affordable Housing Overlay (AHO) zoning ordinance.
Thoughtfully sited and designed to maximize outdoor space and retain the existing large trees, the expanded facility offers residents access to a south-facing courtyard with different seating areas, a large, shared porch, and deck. A serpentine path brings residents and visitors through the courtyard to the glass, light-filled entry which links the renovated building with the addition. The project enhances the streetscape and its urban site with built-in benches along the perimeter of the property and mosaics by David Fichter, a local artist, that reflect the history of the neighborhood and its people.
The project is on track to receive Enterprise for Green Communities certification and offers residents a comfortable, healthy living environment full of daylight.


“Living here has been incredible. The location is perfect, close to the park and the T, and the renovations were absolutely worth it. The building looks great. It’s quiet, filled with natural light and clean air, and the staff have been so helpful. My neighbors seem really happy, too.”
Resident | Dan’s Place

