Located in the heart of Columbia City’s vibrant retail corridor, the project is named to reflect the developer’s belief that a peaceful future can be achieved through innovative design for energy conservation. Pax meaning “peace” in Latin and Futura for the font created to express modern models, rather than be a revival of previous design.

The four-story multi-family apartment building designed by NK Architects is one of the first projects of this size to target Passive House certification. By achieving the rigorous standards of Passive House, Pax Futura consumes up to 80% less energy to heat and cool the units than standard buildings and use durable materials and construction techniques that will last for future generations. The project is also Built Smart emphasizing resource conservation, employing pared down mechanical systems, superior insulation, no VOC finishes, and natural bio-retention planters to manage stormwater onsite.

As developer Sloan Ritchie strived to reach Net Zero (meaning the building produces as much energy as it uses) with Pax Futura, he knew tackling hot water, the largest single consumer of energy on the project, was critical. A grant from Edwards Mother Earth Foundation (EMEF) provided Pax Futura the funds to install a solar hot water system to serve the entire building, reducing the energy used to heat water for showers, laundry, dish washing by 75%. The success of the system demonstrates the scalability of the technology and offering a proven solution for widespread adoption to further curb fuel consumption by buildings.

Embracing a simple, modern design, Pax Futura’s dynamic façade combines a neutral color palette with accents of metal canopies and signage, as well as sliding wood screen elements. The shared courtyard welcomes residents and activate the east façade with circulation, bench overlooks, and vertical landscape and the sliding screen elements, which shields units from west-facing solar exposure, keeping units cool during warm months.

Residents in the 32 studio and one-bedroom apartments and three live/work units benefit from healthier living with continuous, filtered fresh air, superlative comfort in a draft-free, temperate interior environment, and increased quiet and security from the high performance windows and doors. Corner retail and live/work spaces with mezzanines provide added neighborhood activities and amenities. Residents also enjoy common entertainment spaces with an amenity room, courtyard, and a retail patio connecting the pedestrian experience to the project’s live/work and commercial spaces. Easy access to the Link light rail transit system is just blocks away.

The project is leasing up now. For more information, visit www.livepaxfutura.com.