Support Dogs Incorporated

Support Dogs, Inc. is a national non-profit organization that breeds, trains, and provides highly skilled assistance dogs to individuals with disabilities.

JEMA created a 23,500 sq. ft. building that is a true hybrid. It is equal parts office, kennel, veterinarian clinic, training center, and venue space. All of these functions are organized around a central spine that has a south-facing glass clerestory to bring in an abundance of natural light.

The new design features a 20-foot-tall central “main street” that has a south facing glass clerestory. The interior “street” has an abundance of natural light and is the central organizing element of the facility.

This unique building is a hybrid that brings under one roof several inter-dependent and independent functions including:

• state-of-the-art dog kennels with self-watering taps located in a fully conditioned space with daylighting

• indoor play area for the dogs

• venue space for 200 people

• training rooms for up to 150 people

• administrative offices including a board room

• trainer and volunteer staff offices

• veterinarian clinic including an isolation unit

• an outdoor area that includes separated play areas and shaded outdoor kennels

The kennels are made of glass and stainless steel, and are open above. The kennel room is fully conditioned and has a clerestory which brings in natural light.