SD was retained to design a community courtyard for REACH CDC’s Wy’East Plaza affordable housing apartments located at 124th and Ash in East Portland. With the goal of creating a sustainable space that makes all residents feel welcome, we included accessible raised planters, versatile seating, and a rain barrel for harvesting stormwater. Once completed, residents will have access to community gardens, sheltered bike parking, and outdoor seating for both gathering and solitude.
“The current generation of affordable housing comes amid greater recognition that access to nature and safe outdoor spaces can aid mental health.”
“We’re trying to push sustainability, resiliency, community, equity.”
“The project approach was hands-on and collaborative from the beginning, with REACH and all the design consultants alongside the contractor. We were all sitting at the table from day one, working together to meet target cost.”
“With leftover funds, we were able to add a ping pong table, open synthetic flex space, a BBQ table, a fire pit, and a nature play area.”
Scope
SD-CA
Tasks
Community Gardens, Courtyard, Sustainability
Location
Portland, OR
Client
Collaborators
Completed
2021
