Construction - Older Entries Archive
Russet and Morris Greenplexes (2004)
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 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.
6 PHOTOS:
Morris Triplex
Russet Yard
Russet Porch
Russet Duplex
Before: Russet House
Before: Morris House
NE 127th Avenue (2001)
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.
6 PHOTOS:
NE 127th Avenue Duplex
NE 127th Avenue Duplex
NE 127th Avenue Entry/Duplex
NE 127th Avenue 6-Plex
NE 127th Avenue 6-Plex
NE 127th Avenue Homes
NE 24th Avenue (2001)
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.
3 PHOTOS:
NE 24th Avenue Homes
NE 24th Avenue Home
Governor’s Livability Award Winners