The dramatic rise in the cost of housing across the country is due in large part by a lack of supply. Developing new housing is important, but developing housing that is affordable to a wide variety of incomes is critical. Finding locations for the infill of higher-density housing within the existing urban fabric will not only provide homes near existing City services but will help preserve undeveloped open space from urban sprawl. The recent zoning changes in many states allow for higher density in traditionally low-density neighborhoods, along with reduced parking requirements will serve to encourage the development of the ‘missing-middle’ housing that was common decades ago. In addition, smaller-unit, urban apartment developments will help fill the gap in affordable housing for those who do not want to live in the suburbs.

At TEN OVER STUDIO, we believe that a successful multi-family project captures and contributes to the spirit of its setting. A deep understanding of the neighborhood and the needs of the existing residents is fundamental to developing a project that will be welcomed and add value to the community. Efficiently planned and well-designed residential solutions adjacent to existing services and transit pave the way for urban revitalization and provide affordable options across various income brackets. In addition, projects built on sustainable design principles reduce monthly energy and water costs, further helping provide affordable, long-term housing options. Developing multi-family housing as a ‘neighborhood’ with shared amenities and common spaces helps to create a sense of community, safety, and belonging. We are honored to be working with some enlightened developers on the following residential projects.

Joule Multi-Unit Development | Bend, OR

We’re currently designing the Joule and Hiatus Penn projects out of our Bend office. The Joule Multi-Unit Development located in the Orchard District of Bend is our latest project with project owner Roost Development and Pence Contractors. The project is driven by a net-zero project goal, made possible by the contributions of our Energy Consultant, Morrison Hershfield, our Mechanical Consultant, Sazan, and our PV design consultant, Sunlight Solar. The beauty of a net-zero development is that it will produce as much electricity on-site as it will consume over the course of a year. This sustainable design approach is intrinsic to our process at TEN OVER and helps guide us to clients that share the same fundamental values.

A mural commissioned by a local artist will honor the unique energy of Bend, adding a welcoming, walkable feel to the neighborhood. A courtyard and porch facing the adjacent streets will provide families and future residents with outdoor space for leisure, enjoyment, and entertainment.

Team spotlight

“What I love most about being a Project Manager for our multi-family studio is the opportunity to create environments that give individuals of all income levels pride of place. One project at a time, we are starting to move the needle in a society where housing is a critical concern and it's one step towards our mission To Leave This World Better Than We Found It.”
- Aisling Burke, Multi-Family Studio Project Manager -San Luis Obispo

Hiatus Penn Micro-units | Bend, OR

The Hiatus Penn project marks the first apartment building in development under Bend’s new micro-unit development code. These 40 lofted units, located in an approved high density residential zone, are spacious and light-filled, designed with a contemporary vibe, and tall ceilings with access to a private patio. Transportation is made easily accessible with on-site parking provisions, tenant bike storage, electric bike charging, and a site conveniently located near existing transit lines.

The communal spaces at Penn offer residents an area to work, unwind, and connect. From the rooftop deck, conference room, and fitness studio, to each floor’s co-working and community spaces with a shared kitchen, dining room, laundry facility, and patio - there are ample ways to get comfortable and feel at home. The interiors are influenced by Oregon's outdoors with distinct color palettes on each floor that reflect the magic of changing seasons and inspire cozy hangouts. The rooftop patio makes an ideal gathering spot, equipped with an outdoor kitchen, multiple BBQs, a firepit, covered lounge areas, and sweeping views of the Cascade Range in the distance.

Sustainability was the driving force for our team’s design decisions at Penn, accomplished by using energy star appliances, efficient heating, cooling, and lighting, high-performance windows, and natural light throughout. We sourced Pacific Northwest wood for casework and paneling, as well as for the wood siding and sunshade structures. The project utilizes interior materials and ventilation that provide healthy indoor air quality and supports local water conservation efforts with native landscaping and zero-scaping.

Bridge Street Affordable Apartments | San Luis Obispo, CA

Settled at the base of the South Hills greenspace, TEN OVER helped the Housing Authority of San Luis Obispo bring to life the Bridge Street Development, which will bring 36,715 square ft. of modern affordable living to the heart of San Luis Obispo. Our Multi-Family housing studio worked hand in hand with our landscape architecture team to develop a site plan that locates buildings to take advantage of the site features. The resulting cluster development includes shared commons spaces and pathways throughout the site in a park-like setting that complements the existing adjacent creek with an emphasis on native plantings.