Pinnacle at the 2024 Housing Oregon Conference:

Driving Solutions for Affordable Housing

Each member of the Pinnacle team is passionate about contributing to affordable housing solutions across Oregon – and we all play a part in designing solutions. Our participation in the Housing Oregon 2024 Annual Conference reflected this commitment, as our team members led and attended workshops, hosted a booth in the expo area, and celebrated the awardees at the Leadership Awards Gala. Over the course of the two-day conference, our team not only shared our expertise but also engaged in insightful conversations with leaders in the affordable housing sector, furthering our understanding of the challenges and innovations in affordable housing development.

Sharing Expertise and Facilitating Conversations

One of the highlights of our involvement this year was leading two impactful workshops. The first, “Unlocking Affordable Housing: Expert Insights and Collaboration Solutions for Rural Oregon,” focused on rural communities’ specific challenges and opportunities. Attendees participated in small group discussions with industry experts, gaining practical knowledge about the affordable housing development process in rural Oregon. The collaboration between different sectors—architects, developers, non-profit leaders, and government agencies—proved invaluable, as participants shared strategies and resources to overcome common obstacles in rural housing development.

Our second workshop, “Setting Your Sights: The Art of Site Selection in Affordable Housing,” explored one of the most crucial steps in the affordable housing process. A panel of developers and consultants discussed how thoughtful site selection can significantly influence the success and financial viability of affordable housing projects. Topics ranged from zoning and environmental concerns to proximity to amenities like public transportation and schools. The lively discussion emphasized that site selection isn’t just a technical decision; it’s a foundational step that impacts the long-term success of affordable housing communities.

Celebrating the Achievements of Industry Peers

In addition to the workshops, we were excited to attend the Leadership Awards Gala to celebrate the accomplishments of organizations and individuals making a difference in affordable housing. It was inspiring to see the range of projects being recognized, from innovative designs to impactful community programs. The evening was a reminder of why we do what we do—creating spaces that not only provide shelter but foster vibrant, sustainable communities.

Key Takeaways: Learning and Advocacy

The conference was more than just an opportunity to share our insights—it was a chance to learn from others and reflect on our role in shaping the future of affordable housing. Some of the key takeaways our team brought back include:

Architectural Advocacy: We learned about new ways architects can get involved in affordable housing advocacy, ensuring that we are not only designers but also active participants in pushing for policy changes that make affordable housing more accessible. Some of the ways that we can engage in affordable housing advocacy work include:

• Focus groups (engaging in studies on existing bills in the works)
• Advisory committees (volunteer to represent all members of the community)
• Calling local planners (share ideas for zoning changes)
• Serving on a planning commission (taking a public seat to make change)

The Value of Post-Occupancy Surveys: We discussed the importance of conducting post-occupancy surveys in affordable housing projects. These surveys are a vital tool in assessing how well a housing development is serving its residents, but the conversation extended beyond just gathering feedback. We explored how this process could evolve into a continuous feedback loop that informs every stage of affordable housing development, from design to asset management to advocacy. By implementing this feedback loop, we can create more responsive and adaptable housing models. For example, insights from post-occupancy surveys can directly influence future designs, ensuring they align more closely with the real-life needs of residents. It’s not just about making buildings livable today but also ensuring they remain functional, safe, and community-focused for 15 to 20 years down the line.

Rethinking Housing Finance: Several sessions challenged us to rethink how affordable housing is financed. From tax credits to innovative funding models, we came away with a deeper understanding of how financial structures can be adapted to make housing more accessible. We discussed how feedback loops can inform proformas, helping to refine financial models by reflecting current market conditions and operational realities. This ongoing feedback ensures that developers, architects, and asset managers are all working from up-to-date, real-world data, which is crucial for long-term project viability. The asset manager’s role was highlighted as essential in this process. Their expertise is critical in ensuring properties function efficiently over time, identifying issues before they become costly problems, and integrating feedback to make improvements that sustain the property’s value and livability for years to come.

Embedding Early Learning: One particularly inspiring session explored the concept of embedding early learning centers within affordable housing developments—an approach that Pinnacle Architecture has implemented many times, especially in Central Oregon. By designing spaces where educational resources are integrated into the housing environment, we help create opportunities for children and families right where they live. These early learning centers support educational development, empower parents, and foster a sense of community, all while helping to break the cycle of poverty. It’s a model that strengthens both the individual families and the broader community.

Volunteering to Make It Happen

Behind the scenes, our team was actively involved in the planning and executing the conference. From months of preparation leading up to the event to volunteering on-site at the Hilton the night before, we were hands-on in ensuring this year’s conference was a success. Whether we were helping to set up for the big event or offering logistical support, our team was honored to contribute our time and energy. Being part of the planning process gave us a unique perspective on the effort required to host an event that is not only informative but also inclusive and accessible to all.

Overall, the 2024 Annual Housing Oregon Conference was an inspiring and productive event for Pinnacle. We are proud of our role as sponsors and active contributors, and we look forward to continuing our work toward creating more equitable, accessible, and sustainable housing for all Oregonians.

Learn more about Pinnacle’s affordable housing projects here: Affordable Housing Portfolio

If you’re interested in learning more about our work or have a project in mind, we invite you to contact us. Together, we can create spaces that heal.