The Strong Family Apartments

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Located at the prominent intersection of N. Alberta St. and N. Williams Ave., The Strong Family Apartments embodies a visual and historical significance for long-time residents of North and Northeast Portland. The development includes 75 units of affordable housing (21 one-bedrooms, 32 two-bedrooms, and 22 three-bedrooms). Of the 75 units, 11 will be affordable to households earning 30% at or below the Area Medium Income (AMI). The other 64 units will be designated for households earning 60% AMI or below.

The community lobby connects to the private courtyard and community rooms. The space includes an interactive peg wall for all ages, multiple touchdown spaces for families to gather, and acts as an informal overflow space for events.

The project will feature family-friendly amenities including a large outdoor courtyard, private playground, laundry, and an indoor community room, all to foster community among residents. Designed to be versatile and support connection, the amenities provide indoor and outdoor spaces for residents to gather for community events, informal get-togethers, and recreation. Interior spaces were designed with Candace Ullal Design, a certified women and minority-owned business based in Portland, Oregon that creates detail-rich interiors.

Self-Enhancement Inc. (SEI), Oregon’s largest African American-led nonprofit multi-service organization, will provide on-site services for residents and do outreach with an emphasis on supporting African American families earning 30% AMI or below.

The building is wrapped around a central courtyard that includes gathering places and a nature play area for residents.

The project is targeting Earth Advantage Multifamily Platinum Certification. To reduce energy and create a healthy and resilient building for residents, the project will include bike parking and storage on site, a reflective surfaced roof to reduce the heat-island effect, a tight building envelope including double-pane insulated windows, and more. Its location is in a highly walkable community, with public transportation, bike routes, and other community resources nearby.

Client

Community Development Partners
Self-Enhancement Inc.

Location

Portland, OR

Completion

Anticipated Winter 2026

Size

82,000 sq. ft.
75 units

Certification

Targeting Earth Advantage Multifamily Platinum