The aim of this study is to better understand the role of housing in the recovery of people living with severe mental illness. Forty residents of various kinds of structured community housing facilities were questioned about housing conditions that were favourable to their recovery. The results indicate that, for the residents, material conditions have a determining influence on recovery. Their concerns are related to basic needs such as food, costs, conveniences and quality of housing. Social relationships with their immediate circle also have a strong influence on people's recovery, and they want above all to preserve the modest gains that they have made, both material and social. This stability is a prerequisite for their recovery.