The Gulf Coast Community Design Studio, which is embedded in Biloxi, Mississippi, is a research arm of Mississippi State University's College of Architecture, Art + Design. In the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina, the GCCDS worked with members of the East Biloxi community on the ground, providing early damage assessment maps, then planning assistance, and eventually design services.  Coordinating closely with various organizations that provide funding, case management, and volunteer construction labor, GCCDS provides design assistance to individuals from low income households that need help to rebuild.  Since Katrina struck in August of 2005, over 80 homes in East Biloxi alone (both rehabilitations and new construction) have been completed through the work of the GCCDS.

The projects are designed through close relationships with the residents, and the work is very much about preserving the dignity of individuals faced with unimaginable hardships. 

GCCDS's work now encompasses larger scale projects addressing the need for housing and community services.  GCCDS is working with the East Biloxi Coordination, Relief, and Redevelopment Agency to identify sites for multi-unit housing and mixed-use developments.  The studio has also designed a health clinic in D'Iberville, is working in Hancock County and with the City of Moss Point on planning and housing efforts, and is developing design and construction practices focused on increasing sustainability. The common aspects of the work at every scale are a commitment to citizen participation and an effort to rebuild diverse and complete cities and to preserve and restore the unique natural and cultural resources along the coast.

Planning: This is Your Downtown: The Future of Downtown Moss Point. An Exhibit May 7th - June 1.

Completed: A house for Thin in East Biloxi, Mississippi

Biloxi Studio 2009 Information and Registration

Updated: East Biloxi Housing Assessment

Under Construction: A house for Nghia in East Biloxi, Mississippi

Completed: A house for Maryann in East Biloxi, Mississippi

Under Construction: A house for Hazel in East Biloxi, Mississippi

Completed: A house for Curtis and Claudia in East Biloxi, Mississippi

Completed: A house for Thelma in East Biloxi, Mississippi

Completed: A house for Flora, in East Biloxi, Mississippi

Building - Planning - Teaching - Research - Recognition