A fusion of affordability and environmentally-conscience construction, this Albertina Kerr project located in Gresham, Oregon, utilizes impactful design features not commonly seen in affordable housing. We thoroughly modeled the anticipated energy use and designed systems for ventilation, heating, cooling, and lighting that provide optimal thermal comfort and energy efficiency. Wynne Watts Commons showcases the innovative technologies and design features readily available today to achieve better health outcomes for residents, and significant savings on energy bills. Triple-pane operable windows, continuous exterior insulation, sunshades and roof overhangs help to alleviate heat gain. The units boast energy efficient appliances and low flow plumbing fixtures. While ceiling fans help to control the temperature in the units without relying on air conditioning. This 93,000 sq. ft. building produces enough renewable energy to offset its energy consumption, making it one of the largest Net Zero Energy affordable housing projects in the U.S. On the roof of the building, and the top of the carports, is a 660 KWh PV Array that generates 727 MW-hours of electricity annually, enough renewable energy to fully operate the building with no utility cost to residents. The large windows and Juliet balconies with floor-to-ceiling tilt and turn windows fill units with natural light, views, and fresh air. Exterior elements, such as the welcoming entry porches and pitched roof, mimic the surrounding residential neighborhood. The orange accents, chocolate browns, and soft grays on the exterior of the building are a cheerful neighborhood addition. A brightly colored playground located in the center of the complex features accessible and inclusive play equipment. The community garden, lush landscaping throughout the site, and secured bike storage are welcome family-friendly amenities.

Designed with a focus toward the residents’ holistic well-being, this Albertina Kerr development is a blend of cutting-edge environmental sustainability and wide-ranging accessibility, enhanced with color and textures that are warm and playful. The materiality is an important part of the overall residential comfort, reflecting warm and modern finishes. The ground floor Community Room encourages social connection with a space that is remarkably adaptable, including activity tables, entertainment, and a residential kitchen that can be used during birthday parties, game nights, or supporting day-to-day activities. Design featuring a lively splash of color at the tile backsplash, warm wood flooring, and textural wall finishes enhance the experience. Placement of sophisticated color is also a subtle cue for wayfinding. The residential floors have different color identities, reiterated at each elevator lobby and unit entry, fostering a sense of home. Wood slat ceilings and abundant natural light create social spaces encouraging resident connections. The units continue the same themes with large windows, contemporary cabinetry and light quartz countertops. Uniquely, Wynne Watts Commons has 30 universal design units with smart-home features, including monitoring services to provide accessibility, safety, and independence to the residents. Collaboration between Albertina Kerr, the contractor, accessibility consultants, and designers brought to fruition accessibility features allowing residents to live more independently than they may otherwise be able to. Smart-home integrations, such as the ability to open the unit entry door remotely, or change the lighting in a room, enhance safety and useability, and app-controlled laundry, pull-out cook top, and mechanized upper cabinets help residents accomplish daily tasks. For peace of mind, the units include acoustically enhanced wall, floor, and ceiling construction and room darkening shades to give residents control of their space to prevent overstimulation. RGB controllable lighting also provides chromatherapy for mood management. In addition, three beautifully furnished guest units have been designed to support residents and their families, while working toward the goal of being inclusive to all.