Peaceful Villa apartment complex, located in the Richmond neighborhood of Southeast Portland, is currently being redeveloped to increase affordable housing opportunities to Portland residents, with full completion projected for January 2027. Home Forward, the corporation facilitating the redesign, will replace the existing 70-unit complex with 166 new units, along with updated landscaping, amenities, and built-in support systems. The redesign intends to fight the city’s housing crisis by providing low-income individuals and families with accessible living spaces.
Outreach to current residents and planning began in 2022. Construction began in 2024 and has reached the halfway point; with the exterior structure completed, teams are now working towards the last steps. Ron Huffman, a project manager at LMC Construction working on the complex, says, “We are now into the exterior cladding and the project finishes.” Isaac Adams, an architect at Bora Architecture & Interiors, who is also working on the project, notes upcoming estimated milestones: landscaping in November, completion in December, and final inspections in January 2027.
In the redesign plan Adams describes, the four-acre site is divided into sections that each serve a distinct purpose. The southernmost courtyard, referred to as the “Woodlands,” is the quietest. The units in this area will be mainly accessible studio and one-bedroom apartments with features such as short pathways, nearby parking stalls, and elevator access. The “Foothills” intend to bring the community together with group dinners and gardening beds, which not only provide access to fresh food but also increase opportunities for interaction and connection. Other areas, including the “Wetlands,” incorporate stormwater features. The “Meadows” grassy area serves as an open space for yard games and other outdoor activities. Family-focused walk-up units have windows that intentionally face play areas.
Architects worked with residents as well as with members of the surrounding neighborhood throughout the planning process. Residents who relocated when reconstruction began were granted a first right to return upon completion. The input of the Immigrant and Refugee Community Organization (IRCO) was integrated into the project design. IRCO’s involvement in Peaceful Villa will continue as they provide on-site services. Additionally, the complex intends to collaborate with the neighborhood in various ways when the redesign is finished; the Richmond Neighborhood Association can hold community meetings in the event space, and neighborhood children are invited to play on the provided structures.
In addition to the wide variety of outdoor spaces, the project is pursuing the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certification, a globally recognized guideline for architecture and design. “We also wanted to integrate resident-centered sustainability strategies,” Adams says. “We wanted to maintain the really lush existing tree canopy along 47th and Clinton streets.” LEED certification also lowers energy costs and makes long-term affordability goals more achievable. Further focuses of the redevelopment include providing safe pedestrian pathways and secure bicycle parking.
The importance of new and updated construction grows as Portland’s housing market is becoming increasingly unaffordable due to rising rent costs, gentrification, and population growth. According to Street Roots, the homeless population in Multnomah County increased by 25% between January 2025 and January 2026. Despite the clear need for new affordable living spaces, the county is unable to meet demand. “The housing market is challenged. We just can’t build them fast enough, and the need for housing is so great,” explains Huffman.
According to Bankrate, only 9.8% of homes are available to individuals earning the median income. Adams states that the complex’s rates are “significantly more affordable than the neighboring homes.” He claims that these new developments can provide greater stability for families through long-term housing.
Beyond offering physical amenities, places like the Peaceful Villa apartment complex aim to shape the experiences of residents. Adams’ objective throughout the project has been to create shared spaces that will help people feel connected. “The number one goal was creating a welcoming environment that fosters a sense of belonging,” he says.
