Over the past year, under a freeway overpass in Salt Lake City, Utah, a 50-unit tiny home neighborhood has popped up on what was once a barren plot of land.
The microshelter community — which is a joint effort between Foldum, RPM Team, and homeless provider Switchpoint — was built in two phases, including the construction and eventual relocation of 25 units in December 2023 and the addition of another 25 in September 2024.
“We are deeply thankful for the Utah legislature’s support, which has made this project possible,” Wayne Niederhauser, Utah’s homeless coordinator, said in a press release when the second phase launched in the fall.
“The successful microshelter pilot, with its notable exits to housing and low calls for enforcement, demonstrates that this model works. This second phase represents a crucial step toward greater stabilization and long-term solutions for those in need.”
Part of what makes the microshelter neighborhood remarkable is its innovative design. The customizable houses, which were manufactured by Foldum, ship flat and fold upward upon installation.
“With a flat-pack design, transportation and storage are effortlessly streamlined, ensuring hassle-free logistics wherever you go,” the company promises on their website.
“Built to last and climate-controlled for comfort, our durable structures provide a reliable sanctuary in any environment.”
The foldable tiny homes, which are suitable for on-grid and off-grid living, have been used for student housing and disaster management in addition to temporary housing for those experiencing homelessness.
For residents like 48-year-old LaDonna Sidney, the tiny home neighborhood has proven to be a safe haven.
In the walls of her small pod, she can hear the ever-present sound of the cars whooshing past on the freeway overhead. But she doesn’t mind.
After moving from Illinois to Utah in early 2024, Sidney spent the majority of the year moving from shelter to shelter.
“There’s nothing more perfect,” Sidney told the Utah News Dispatch. “I’m very grateful for this opportunity.”
Residents must fall into one of three categories in order to qualify for the microshelter community: those who are actively working but can’t afford housing, disabled individuals that would be put at risk living on the streets, and people experiencing homelessness who do not thrive in congregate shelter settings.
“We want it to be as effective as it can, and try to reach those that it will help the most,” said Switchpoint’s Salt Lake regional director Cody Sanders.
Like many of her neighbors, Sidney falls under the first category.
Although she can’t yet afford permanent housing, she currently holds two jobs as a part-time manager at Claire’s and a full-time package handler at FedEx.
“My hopes are I can just continue working and continue saving money and I can end up being able to live in society,” she said.
Watch the video below to see the neighborhood:
Foldum CEO Ryan Rossi displays the folding design in action:
Header image via RPM Team
