NE Garfield Affordable Housing

"Shifting Perspectives": New hope found in new housing

NE Garfield Affordable Housing is an infill development with an uplifting, welcoming presence in its Northeast Portland neighborhood. As one of Self Enhancement, Inc.’s first housing developments (and in partnership with Edlen & Co.), their vision for the building is to signify new hope for the neighborhood and those residing within, specifically African Americans and underserved families who are able to move back into this gentrified neighborhood. Scott Edwards Architecture is partnering with Curious Architects to deliver a mix of studio, 1, 2, and 3-bedroom floorplans across 59 apartments, offering a variety of layouts suitable for a range of family sizes. Shared amenities like a communal room with a kitchenette and children’s play area, distributed laundry rooms on each floor, and an outdoor courtyard extend what defines ‘home’ to include areas outside of individual residences, promoting connection and activity. Longevity is emphasized through flexibility of spaces, thoughtful material choice, and sustainability measures targeting NGBS Emerald certification.

Location
Portland, OR

Size
45,500 sf
59 apartments

Year
Estimated March 2028

The architecture of the facade and massing remains approachable while prioritizing density. The first level’s solid base serves to ground the building in the neighborhood context. The exterior of the upper five levels has a fluctuating rhythm that breaks up the massing. The communal room is placed at the building’s Southwest corner, and a glassy storefront system connects passersby with the activity within.