Quonset huts, with their harsh materials and military connotations, seem unlikely candidates for conversion to a supportive, welcoming environment for the chronically ill. But a transformation that the jury dubbed "phenomenal" fulfilled that mission, and on a penurious budget of less than $65 per square foot. Bethany Place is a national leader in innovative care for people with HIV, providing one-stop shopping for all their social service needs. The design goal for this facility was, in the words of Director Tom Adams, "to create a place where people will feel safe and healed, respected and relaxed. We want to send a message that if you’re HIV positive, you can still have nice surroundings." The unique shape of the Quonset hut interiors, the feeling of expansiveness, the variety of lighting levels, the attention to design details, all contribute to this feeling of well-being. The successful design also has helped improve a dilapidated neighborhood and raise community awareness of Bethany’s programs, because it provides desirable meeting spaces for local civic groups.