Located in Maitland, Florida, New Hope for Kids has been a vital support system for children and families across Central Florida. The organization serves over 400 individuals each year through two powerful missions: grief support for children who have lost a loved one and wish fulfillment for children facing life-challenging illnesses.
When New Hope for Kids began the process of expanding and renovating their facility, they knew the environment needed to match the depth and compassion of their mission. KTH was honored to be selected as the architectural partner for both Phase I and Phase II of the organization’s transformation.
Phase I: A Home-Like Environment with Heart
The first phase involved the 12,000-square-foot renovation of a former ballroom facility. KTH worked closely with the New Hope staff, leading due diligence, space programming, and collaborative concept development. The shared goal: to design a welcoming, residential-style environment that would feel like a home away from home for grieving children and their families.
The resulting space is filled with warmth, care, and creativity. Highlights include:
- Grief counseling classrooms for children and adults
- Themed playrooms designed to bring comfort and joy to children processing loss
- Outdoor gardening areas for therapeutic connection with nature
- Two living room/libraries, a reception area, and a full activity teaching kitchen
- A multi-purpose community room for group gatherings and events
Perhaps the most inspiring aspect of the project was designing the themed Children’s Grief Support Rooms—each tailored to provide therapeutic outlets in an engaging, child-friendly way. These include:
- The Hurricane Rooms, fully padded physical spaces with punching bags for emotional release
- A Digital Game Room, Music Room, Arts & Crafts Room, and Game Room
- A Sand Room, Theater Room, and Birthday Room to celebrate milestones and play
- Specialized Counseling Rooms tailored to different age groups: Littles, Middles, and Teens
Each room is designed to provide a sense of wonder and emotional safety, turning an overwhelming experience into one supported by joy, healing, and care.
Phase II: Expanding the Mission
Following the success of Phase I, KTH was invited back for Phase II, which focused on renovating the second-floor office spaces. This expansion allows New Hope for Kids to better serve its growing administrative and programmatic needs—ensuring staff and volunteers have the space and tools they need to continue their critical work.
From concept through construction, KTH is proud to support New Hope for Kids in creating spaces that reflect the heart of their mission. This project reminds us that architecture is not just about buildings—it’s about creating environments where healing can happen, and hope can grow.
