The Unicorn Bed Apartments are comprised of thirteen compact residences for single parents and their kids in the heart of Portland’s Alphabet Historic District. The neighborhood fabric is a mix of sizes and styles of buildings connected by a framework of leafy outdoor spaces, gardens, and courtyards. P­­orches and balconies further blend the inside and outside. The project, commissioned by Guerrilla Development, puts forth a vision for highly affordable housing that is livable, beautiful, and rooted in the historical context of the Nob Hill neighborhood.

Unicorn Bed’s site plan is comprised of two structures, offset to form small courtyards for each building around a shared stairwell. These courtyards and separation allow for light, air, and views on all sides, making the very compact 600sf two-bedroom units seem much larger than they are. The site layout manipulates the ground plane and sunken court of the rear building, allowing an additional floor of housing while fitting into the scale of the surrounding buildings. Verdant plantings will provide additional privacy to residents and enhance the lush atmosphere of the neighborhood.

The buildings are inspired by the simple, quality materials of the district, emphasizing the use of wood lap siding and double-hung windows. Taking inspiration from historic balconies within the district, the building’s exit stairs are transformed into ‘Garden Balconies’ in a  bay window shape, encouraging socializing and connection to the courtyards. Complementing the restrained and modern aesthetic of the structures, the railings are laser-cut steel with organic motifs providing character and whimsy for the kids as well as the adults who live here. 

The Unicorn Bed project demonstrates equity and a richness that makes a great and diverse neighborhood. It reinforces that everyone deserves a dignified place to live and that the families have access to a nearby park, school, grocery store, and other amenities, and can­ be part of a community, - where they can also contribute to the ongoing story and history of a neighborhood.