The Solstice
Location: Eugene, OR | Completion Date: 2011
The Solstice is a 3-story townhouse development near the University of Oregon. Primarily student housing, a variety of unit options are provided through a combination of 2 & 3 story townhouses and ground level flats.
The project is comprised of two parallel buildings oriented to create a south-facing courtyard. This shared outdoor space serves to facilitate a sense of community, as well as allow light and air to flow through the site. Additionally, a series of vegetated swales not only provide landscaping, but also mediate stormwater collected onsite.
One core goal of this project is energy efficiency, as the buildings are designed to achieve the Silver Level of the Earth Advantage Program, administered by the local Eugene Water and Electric Board. Key features include increased insulation, efficient glazing, and use of natural ventilation rather than mechanical air-conditioning. The “pleated” bay windows give each adjacent bedroom openings on two sides, contributing to effective cross-ventilation, providing views lengthwise through the courtyard to the surrounding neighborhood, and reducing the need for electric lighting.
Photography by Jeff Amram Photography