The Portland Bureau of Planning has launched the "Portland Courtyard Housing Design Competition: Creating spaces for families, community and sustainability in the city."

Through this architectural design competition, the City of Portland will be inviting designers to explore possibilities provided by courtyard housing as an additional infill housing type that can contribute to meeting the housing needs of Portlanders. The central focus of this design competition will be to develop innovative designs demonstrating how higher-density courtyard housing can serve as an attractive option for families with children, while also contributing to environmental sustainability, providing an affordable housing option, and respecting neighborhood character. "As Portland grows, we need to work ensure that Portland remains a family-friendly city with thriving neighborhoods," said Mayor Tom Potter. "This design competition is part of that work." [Read Full Press Release]

Competition website: http://www.courtyardhousing.org

Bill Cunningham,

BOP City Planner