The Avens
Located on the west edge of downtown Boise in a new, largely undeveloped area, The Avens is a multi-family sustainable housing design concept that would set precedent for future development in the neighborhood.
Project Details
Location
Boise, ID
Client
Roundhouse
Project Size
291,609 sq. ft.
198 units
Sustainability
The City of Boise has committed to using 100% clean energy by 2035, and becoming carbon neutral by 2050. In alignment with these commitments, The Avens goes above and beyond traditional sustainability measures, targeting Passive House certification. To achieve this, the layout is shaped to be compact, which helps reduce air infiltration, increases the efficiency of mechanical and hot water systems, reduces wasted capacity, simplifies construction, and lowers construction and long-term maintenance costs. With Boise’s climate of sunny winters and large daily temperature swings in summer, the building forms are oriented to control solar gain and prevent overheating of apartments. Additionally, windows and doors are carefully selected and placed to reduce air leaks, heat loss, and solar gain.
Land Recognition
We have a responsibility to not only acknowledge but also elevate Native communities and their needs. This project is located in what is currently known as the Treasure Valley or Boise Valley, once home to Shoshone, Paiute, and Bannock people, collectively known as the Newe (the People). The Newe were forcibly removed from the area around 1869 when gold and silver were discovered. Their descendants are members of Tribes spread across a vast geography.
Educating ourselves is an important action. We encourage you to explore the stories of this community through Native-led resources like this state-wide acknowledgement by Antoinette Cavanaugh, member of the Shoshone-Paiute Tribes of the Duck Valley Indian Reservation.
Sustainable Urban Living
The Avens was designed to foster a new, vibrant, and sustainable community on the west edge of downtown Boise. Somewhere between urban and suburban and in close proximity to Esther Simplot Park and the river, The Avens would serve as a catalyst for the formation of a new neighborhood. The 198-unit development would provide 187 market-rate and 11 low-income units.
Inspired by Local Geology
Designed to respect and reflect the existing landscape, the architecture is inspired by the colors and textures of local mountain geology. It is characterized by striated brick and textural stucco punctuated with bronze metal panels.
Luxurious Features & Finishes
On the interior, residential units prioritized ample natural light, healthy building materials, and thoughtful layouts. Features would include high-end finishes, quartz countertops, and inset balconies.
Lively Neighborhood Hub
With 10,000 square feet of street-level commercial tenant space, a coworking lounge, and a landscaped courtyard, residents and the surrounding community will have various areas to gather. A planned wooden boardwalk with bench seating throughout, a playground, bike parking, and an open plaza would foster a vibrant community.
