Headquarters Built Around Community and Care Covenant House
Covenant House International is a vital source of support and advocacy for runaway and homeless youth, providing emergency shelter, transitional housing, and supportive services. While the organization operates 21 locations across North America, its roots are in Manhattan, home to the organization’s largest facility. Looking to better support its staff, administrative operations, and community, CHI envisioned new permanent headquarters.
Previously, CHI engaged Denham Wolf to develop a comprehensive real estate strategy to address its outdated office space and guide the selection of a top developer. As part of the larger mixed-use development, CHI retained two floors for its administrative offices. Following the completion of the base building, Denham Wolf's Project Management team was engaged to deliver the final piece of the development project: overseeing the construction of the new, state-of-the-art headquarters.
Denham Wolf supported the selection and onboarding of the full project team and established the project framework, including budget, schedule, and coordination. The project was supported by local, state, and federal funding, which introduced additional layers of coordination, accountability, and timeline constraints. Denham Wolf provided dedicated oversight and supported CHI's leadership through staff changes, ensuring the project remained aligned with its goals.
Transitioning from an outdated office environment, CHI prioritized delivering a modern, uplifting workspace for its staff. Partnering with The Switzer Group, the vision centered on fostering community and collaboration, achieved through an open floor plan organized into smaller, defined "neighborhoods" and flexible, multi-use spaces. The layout supports both daily operations and evolving programmatic needs, emphasizing adaptability and connection.
The upper floor is designed as a flexible event space, allowing CHI to host gatherings for other branches and community members. Additionally, a new walkway was built linking the administrative offices and CHI’s program building, providing vital services - allowing for seamless access between spaces.
Material and design choices reinforce the organization's identity and mission. Brand colors are integrated throughout the space, including within signage and individual offices. Concrete elements connect the interior to the building's architecture and surrounding neighborhood, while wood features introduce warmth and texture. Glass-paneled offices and meeting rooms maximize natural light, creating a bright, open environment.
Custom vinyl installations at main entry points celebrate CHI's values, emphasizing messages of encouragement to everyone who walks through their doors.
"I can’t say enough about my experience working with Denham Wolf! The DWRES team brings a wealth of expertise and experience that has guided and managed our construction project. Their knowledge and support have proven to be essential and invaluable. They have handled the detail work and difficult conversations to ensure that our project moved in the right direction, all while clearly explaining each step and empowering us throughout the process. We are impressed and grateful for Denham Wolf's willingness to guide and support us, providing counsel, advice, and delivering results. It's a truly valuable partnership that has made a significant difference in our project."
- John Ducoff, COO and Chief Legal Officer
The completed headquarters successfully delivers a highly functional and inspiring workplace that improves both the staff and visitor experience. By aligning thoughtful design with operational needs, the new space supports collaboration, flexibility, and long-term growth - while reflecting CHI's mission and strengthening its ability to serve its community.
“By delivering this modern workspace, we have supported Covenant House International’s goals and helped realize its vision for expanded programming and opportunities. We are proud to have guided the project from start to finish.”
—Ronzard J. Innocent, Principal | Managing Director of Project Management Services at Denham Wolf
“This revitalized office not only supports daily operations and events but also enables its dedicated staff to remain focused on delivering life-changing programming and services.”
—Hector Pineda, Senior Project Manager at Denham Wolf