Design Story: Salt & Light Coalition
- Carolina Mendonça
- Oct 31
- 1 min read
Some projects go beyond design — they become a reflection of purpose. The Salt & Light Coalition headquarters in Chicago was one of those rare moments where space and mission aligned perfectly.
Created for an organization that restores dignity to women survivors of human trafficking, the design needed to feel safe, bright, and empowering. The building — a restored historic structure — became a symbol of transformation itself.

We worked with contrast and balance: white for light and clarity, black for strength, and yellow for hope. Natural wood softened the architecture, and vibrant artwork brought movement and emotion into every room.
Every corner carries intention. The flexible hall adapts from yoga sessions to job-training workshops. The kitchen became a place for community and laughter. The conference room — bright and bold — turned into a space where voices are heard and stories are shared.

Design can’t heal on its own, but it can make space for healing to happen. In this project, every decision — every color, texture, and proportion — was guided by that belief.
When design meets purpose, it transcends aesthetics — it becomes a form of restoration.




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