How do you design an animal shelter that works better for both people and the animals they care for?
The City of Ruston wanted more than a place to house animals.
The challenge was to create a modern facility that improved daily operations, maximized limited resources, and provided a safe, welcoming environment for both animals and the public.
The design also needed to prepare the shelter for extraordinary events, allowing it to accommodate nearly twice its normal capacity during emergencies such as hurricanes.
The Challenge
Create a facility that supports efficient operations while improving the experience for staff, volunteers, visitors, and the animals in their care.
Design a shelter that could serve the community for decades while remaining adaptable to future needs.
The Vision
Working closely with the City of Ruston, we focused on understanding how the shelter would operate every day—not just how it would look.
From programming and space planning to the development of a floor-flushing system and flexible kennel layouts, every design decision was intended to improve efficiency, simplify maintenance, and create healthier spaces for animals.
Working with graphic designer Tom Futrell, we also developed an environmental graphics program and brand identity that reinforced the shelter's mission throughout the facility.
The Approach
The completed facility established a new standard for animal care in the region.
Operational improvements reduced the daily workload for staff while creating a healthier, more welcoming environment for animals and visitors.
More importantly, the shelter demonstrated how thoughtful design can improve both operational efficiency and community impact.
The Impact
A healthier environment for animals, a better experience for staff and volunteers, and a welcoming community resource that encourages adoption.
Location
Ruston, Louisiana
Project Status
Completed 2023
Client
The City of Ruston, Louisiana
Firm
Studio Brooks + Emory
Principal Architect
Robert Brooks, AIA
My Role
Project Leadership • Programming • Design • Construction Administration
Contractor
Chart Construction, Lafayette, La
Collaborators
Tom Futrell – Environmental Graphics
Henry McCoy - Architectural Photography
Project Credits
Recipient of the ASID South Central Gold Award for Excellence in Design.