Archive for the ‘New Construction’ Category

In 2010, PCRI realized a long-standing dream: to develop new sustainable, efficient and affordable homes available for low- and middle-income families.  With funding from Portland Housing Bureau, these four new three-bedroom, 2-bath homes were completed in late-fall 2010 and represent our commitment to expand home ownership opportunities to historically underserved families.

The new homes also showcase PCRI’s commitment to sustainability–employing durable, low-maintenance materials, state-of-the-art energy-efficient appliances and mechanical systems and innovative building and insulation techniques.  The homes earned LEED Gold certification and were featured in the City of Portland’s 2010 Build it Green! homes tour.

On two sites where dilapidated homes once stood, PCRI developed five new affordable rental homes.  On NE Russet Street, a new duplex includes two- and three-bedroom units; on NE Morris Street, a new triplex includes a townhouse-style three-bedroom unit and one- and two-bedroom apartments.  All of the homes are generously sized, ranging from 1,097 square feet to 1,311 square feet.

The duplex and the triplex were both built with durability and efficiency in mind–and a strong desire to ensure healthy homes for the residents who would live in them.  Before the new homes were even built, the existing houses were deconstructed, ensuring re-use of materials where possible and proper disposal of debris when necessary.  During construction, advanced framing techniques and on-site waste reduction were employed to create a more efficient structure and reduce our impact on landfills.  Natural materials, sustainably harvested wood and recycled content products were included throughout the homes to minimize our impact on natural resources.

Inside the homes, low-VOC paints and non-toxic finishes were specified and efficient, effective ventilation systems were installed to ensure the homes provided a healthy environment.  Energy Star appliances, water-efficient plumbing fixtures and low-maintenance landscaping were also incorporated to ensure low utility bills and easy maintenance for the residents and PCRI.

These homes, including units reserved for families living with HIV, were celebrated on the City of Portland’s 2004 Build it Green! homes tour and were recognized by Oregon Housing and Community Services for the homes’ benefits as Special Needs Housing.

PCRI developed a new six-plex and duplex to replace a dilapidated single family residence on this large site with convenient access to the MAX light-rail line.  The six-plex features two-bedroom, one-bath units ranging from 872 – 918 square feet, including three ground-floor units were designed to be adaptable to wheelchair users and feature wider doors, large bathrooms for maneuverability and other amenities.  The duplex features two three-bedroom, 1-1/2 bath townhomes and all units have access to off-street parking and an open play area.

To keep residents’ utility bills low, an innovative turbonics heating system was employed.  Separate thermostats in each room allow residents to only heat rooms as needed.  Energy-efficient windows, doors and insulation further aid in maintaining resident comfort.  Healthy non-toxic finishes and materials were used throughout and water-efficient fixtures and landscaping were also incorporated.

PCRI deconstructed an existing home on this property and subdivided the lot to build two single-family row homes on either side of a new shared driveway.  Each 925 square foot home features two bedrooms and a bathroom upstairs with kitchen, living and dining rooms and a half-bath downstairs.  Washer and dryer hookups are also located inside the homes.

In addition to re-use of an existing site near local services, schools, parks and transportation, sustainability was carefully considered throughout the project.  An innovative turbonics heating system with separate thermostats in each room works in conjunction with energy-efficient windows, doors and insulation to maintain resident comfort.  Healthy non-toxic finishes and materials were used throughout and water-efficient fixtures and landscaping were also incorporated.

Upon completion, the 24th Avenue homes were recognized with the 2001 Governor’s Livability Award.

Cedar Place is PCRI’s first new construction project, providing five units of affordable housing.  In front, a two-story duplex has two three-bedroom, two-bathroom homes.  A second two story building is set back from the street and features two- and three-bedroom units, each with two bathrooms.  All of the units feature in-unit laundry and an open main floor plan with kitchen, living and dining areas.  The two buildings surround a play area and off-street parking.

Upon completion, Cedar Place was honored with the 1998 City of Portland Development Review Team Good Design Award.