116 Norfolk: Building Permanent Supportive Housing

116 Norfolk Street was originally constructed in 1907 as a convent for St. Mary’s Church in the Central Square area of Cambridge, MA. Cambridge Housing Authority purchased the property in 1975 and converted it into single-room occupancy (SRO) housing where residents shared kitchens and shower facilities.  

After decades of serving the community, the property was ready for renewal. Cambridge Housing Authority engaged residents directly to shape the vision for a new chapter of 116 Norfolk, gathering input on priorities and design features that would best support comfort, independence, and community. Their feedback guided the redevelopment, resulting in new homes that reflect both modern standards and the lived experience of the residents.

This property has now been expanded and fully redeveloped into 62 studio apartments, each with a private kitchen and bathroom, for existing residents and individuals transitioning out of homelessness. 116 Norfolk also meets Enterprise Green Communities standards. Upgrades include rooftop solar, electric systems, improved insulation, and preserved open outdoor spaces, further connecting and improving the lives and comfort of members of the community. The upgrades also vastly improved the ventilation of the spaces. Previously, there was very limited active ventilation in the building and residents complained about smells from the kitchens and inadequate HVAC in their units. Now there is a balanced ventilation system providing fresh air and exhausting stale air from each room, which should help with both odors and drafts.

Energy Rater Hayden Cantoni and Project Manager Spencer Gorman spoke with one of the residents during an educational walkthrough of the new facility. Before moving into his new apartment, he lived in a shelter where he shared kitchens and bathrooms with many other residents. Now, he has his own kitchen and bathroom, which has made a big difference in his daily life. He can take a shower without waiting in line, making it easier to get to work on time. He can cook when he’s hungry instead of relying on whatever food is available. 

He also spoke about the sense of ownership that comes with having his own space. In shared spaces, no one took responsibility for keeping the kitchen or bathroom clean. Now, he keeps his apartment tidy, cleans up after himself, and has his own cleaning supplies. That control over his environment has made a noticeable difference in his daily life. For this resident, sustainability isn’t about checklists or certifications. It’s about having a stable, private place to live and the ability to meet his own needs.