Rose Villa Pocket Neighborhoods & Main Street

Architect: RLPS Architects and MGA Architects

Owner: Rose Villa

Location: Portland, Oregon

Merit Award

www.rlps.com

Known for its lush landscaping and relaxed lifestyle, Rose Villa consisted of linear, one-story garden apartments that no longer met consumer expectations. Navigating the steep 22-acre hillside site was challenging for existing residents and daunting for those considering the community. The first phase of gradual replacement or exterior renovation of all 263 units introduced pocket neighborhoods organized around gardens stepping down the hillside. The result creates smaller, pedestrian-friendly neighborhoods within the larger community which capitalize on garden connections and outdoor views.

Jury

David Banta, AIA (Chair), WDG Architects, Washington, DC

Paul Donaldson, AIA, PRDG Architects, Dallas, Texas

Karla Jackson, Studio Six 5, Austin, Texas

Dayle Krahn, Baptist Housing, Delta, British Columbia

David Lacy, Southminster, Charlotte, North Carolina

Jury comments

The concept of pocket neighborhoods joined by pathways and gardens, situated along the sloping hillside, reinforces the residential character of the community and makes creative use of a challenging topography. The jury felt this concept was a thoughtful response to the needs of the community and demands of a difficult site. The jury agreed that this property embodied all the current directions in senior living toward choice of living space, focus on wellness and socialization, connection with the outdoors and with the greater community.

Image credits

Rose Villa Pocket Neighborhoods & Main Street

Steve Wanke Photography

Rose Villa Pocket Neighborhoods & Main Street

Nathan Cox Photography

Rose Villa Pocket Neighborhoods & Main Street

Nathan Cox Photography

Rose Villa Pocket Neighborhoods & Main Street

Nathan Cox Photography

Rose Villa Pocket Neighborhoods & Main Street

Nathan Cox Photography