Merit Award

The Melody

  • Year: 2024
  • Entry Categories: Affordable and Workforce Housing

The Melody

The Melody exemplifies the transformative power of community, collaboration, and compassion as Atlanta’s first “”Rapid Housing”” initiative. Situated in South Downtown near the Garnett MARTA station and the newly constructed Greyhound Station, this innovative project repurposes a former parking lot into a thriving community of 40 micro-units, with 32 ADA-compliant units, all crafted from repurposed shipping containers. Completed in just four months, The Melody is strategically located to ensure residents have access to public transportation and essential services.

Each unit is thoughtfully designed with a bed, private bathroom, and kitchenette, offering residents more than just shelter—a stable foundation for rebuilding their lives. The community includes amenities like a communal garden, dog park, and shared gathering spaces. A community building houses additional amenities such as a kitchenette, offices, and laundry facilities, fostering a sense of belonging among residents.

The Melody represents a holistic approach to addressing homelessness, going beyond traditional housing models by creating opportunities for connection, stability, and reintegration into society. It stands as a model for future affordable housing projects, showcasing the power of public-private partnerships and innovative construction methods in providing equitable housing opportunities.

Named in honor of a woman who tragically passed away from an overdose near the site, The Melody serves as a poignant reminder that housing can be life-saving, reinforcing Atlanta’s commitment to addressing homelessness with dignity and compassion.

  • FirmThe Beck Group
  • Project LocationAtlanta, Georgia
  • Completion DateJanuary 26, 2024
  • OwnerAtlantica Properties
  • Architects and Designers Ryan Horne, AIA
    Ryan Woods, Assoc. AIA
    Zach Souders, AIA
    Mae Murphy, Assoc. AIA
    Thien Nguyen, AIA
  • Civil EngineerKimely-Horn
  • MEP EngineerHammond & Associates
  • Structural EngineerShear Structural
  • General ContractorThe Beck Group: Design-Builder
  • Consultants and VendorsPrefabricator of Modular Units: BMarko Structures
  • PhotographyGREGGWILLETTPHOTO