Hazel Heights Apartments

exterior courtyard housing apartments
Hazel Heights Apartments
exterior courtyard housing multifamily apartments
Location
Portland, OR
Size
276,000 SF
Owner
Central City Concern
Architect
Ankrom Moisan
Services
Electrical Systems
ICT
Mechanical Systems
Plumbing and Piping Systems

In the fall of 2016, six healthcare organizations—Providence Health, Kaiser Permanente Northwest, Legacy Health, Oregon Health & Science University, CareOregon, and Adventist Health—along with other state and local agencies contributed more than $21M to Central City Concern (CCC) to fund a new clinic, social services, and affordable housing.

This substantial contribution launched the Housing is Health initiative, created to provide stability and healthcare for Portland’s homeless.

Hazel Heights is the first of three developments produced by this groundbreaking partnership. Located on SE Stark, steps away from mass transit and public services, the community welcomes people exiting transitional housing programs who seek a permanent home. Three buildings offer 153 apartments with a mix of one- and two-bedroom units, including 20 permanent supportive housing units. Each four-story cluster is 92,000 SF with shared amenities located throughout the complex.

Accomplished on a limited budget, the design team worked diligently to maximize units and create homes that are easy for tenants to maintain. Space planning and equipment selection were critical components of the design. We placed cove heaters and exhaust systems in each unit, utilized a centralized domestic hot water system, and provided air conditioning for shared areas and offices. Maintenance costs were reduced by using the same MEP systems throughout and training residents and staff on how to upkeep the equipment.

At the grand opening celebration, a formerly homeless resident who is a single dad to three kids shared how grateful he was that his kids won’t have to go through what he experienced. This expression of gratitude reinforces how important it is to support people transitioning from homelessness to housing. By providing shelter and resources these individuals and families have a better chance for a healthy future.

©Ankrom Moisan. Photos by Casey Braunger.