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First opened to student residents in 1967 under the name of "The College Inn," The Gem is located on the campus of Oregon State University (OSU). Named after the first OSU campus newspaper, The Gem also reflects the building's new image - a colorful and creative environment that is a welcome renovation of what was considered one of the least aesthetically pleasing buildings on the OSU campus.
Lacking the capital funds to replace the building, OSU sought proposals from private developers willing to redevelop the 40-year-old dormitory site with something more attuned to modern needs and aesthetics. Lorig and College Housing NW offered a novel idea - maximize value by keeping the building in place.
Renovation preserved a strong concrete building taller than permitted under current codes, with larger floor areas than could be afforded in new construction. Cramped interior rooms were reconfigured to one-bedroom apartments. The unique pinwheel shaped floor plan provides common spaces on each floor. Wings of the cavernous lobby level were converted to unique loft apartments with private entrances. Dramatic touches of color bring the interior spaces into the 21st century.
With an innovative response to adaptive reuse leading to the creation of unique spaces, The Gem provides an intriguing option for upper classmen who prefer an independent living environment close to campus.
Challenges
The key challenge was to get the highest and best use of the site. This included exploring the option of tearing the building down versus a substantial renovation. An adaptive reuse and renovation was the more cost effective solution.
Features
- The seven-story building has 231 apartments, including studio, loft, one-bedroom, two-bedroom and three-bedroom units. In addition, the renovation includes a community kitchen, laundry facilities and a student lounge on every floor. The facility also houses a new fitness center and a café for residents.
- Each apartment is furnished and all utilities are included in the rent. Local phone and internet connections are also included.
- College Housing NW, LLC has leased the land from OSU for 30 years and took over management upon completion of the project in spring 2006.
Location
155 NW Kings Boulevard, Corvallis, Oregon
Milestones
Grand Opening May 2006
Partners
Leasing Information
Housing NW
Darcy Vincent
1708 SW Columbia
Portland, OR 97201
(503) 497-1188
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