The Vera, located in Portland’s Riverplace district, is a 13-story affordable housing community that provides not just housing, but opportunities for job training, education, and personal growth for those transitioning from homelessness. Supporting their wellbeing is at the heart of our cohesive design concept, meant to evoke harmony. The Vera’s programming champions low-income residents: Impact NW, a homelessness-prevention nonprofit, has offices on the ground floor and provides programs designed to help residents become and stay self-sufficient. We also designed a flexible space for educational workshops, community events, and everyday resident use. The interior design revolves around the theme of weaving, symbolizing the unity of diverse lives. Natural materials and organic forms are used throughout, with a warm color palette of wood tones and vibrant accents of magenta and tangerine. A custom wood slat wall behind the front desk reflects the movement of the nearby Willamette River, connecting the building to its surroundings. Large windows frame dramatic views of the South Waterfront and downtown Portland, rare in affordable housing. On the ground floor, flexible spaces for community events, education, and job training are designed to foster interaction, while maintaining a sense of security and comfort. Each of the units features high ceilings, neutral wood finishes, and floor-to-ceiling windows, offering residents a bright, airy environment with contemporary finishes that rival those of its market-rate neighbors. The result is a space that feels both inspiring and welcoming, where residents can thrive in a supportive community. The Vera exemplifies how affordable housing can be beautiful, functional, and integrated with its surroundings, creating a place of pride and opportunity for all its residents.