Oak Lawn Place in Dallas is touted as North Texas’ first affordable housing development designed to be inclusive and welcoming to LGBTQIA+ seniors 55 and older, a population that is at higher risk for social isolation and poverty.
Project Details
Location: Dallas
Developers: Resource Center and Matthews Southwest
Architect and Interior Designer: Perkins&Will
Builder: Spring Valley Construction Co.
Opened: November 2024
Number of Units: 84
Unit Mix: One- to two-bedrooms
Rents: $567 to $1,118
The 84-unit property was developed by Matthews Southwest and Resource Center, one of the largest LGBTQIA+ community centers in the nation and key North Texas HIV/AIDS service organization. Partners include Perkins&Will as architect, Spring Valley Construction Co. as builder, and Volunteers of America Texas as property manager. The units are for seniors earning between 30% and 60% of the area median income (AMI), with half of the units set aside for households earning below 50% of the AMI.
The team focused on improving living conditions, access to services, and community support for older LGBTQIA+ adults. In addition, the development transformed a multiuse boat salvage yard into a community asset in Dallas’ Oak Lawn neighborhood, which has been the heart of the North Texas LGBTQIA+ community since the 1970s and within walking distance to the Resource Center’s community center.
James Steinkamp
Oak Lawn Place features a balance between modern minimalism and the comforts of home with a focus on tranquility. The distinct facade with multicolored metal panels floating above the glass lobby convey an inclusive welcome. A vibrant color palette is used inside as well along with a custom mural on every level created by artist Karen Chen of Sunshine Studios. The color coding on each floor provides visual wayfaring for residents while also adding personality.
The design also accommodates seniors, with wider corridors, spacious amenities, and generous circulation areas for ease of movement. A fitness center, a coffee bar, a dog park, and a private party room encourage socialization and active lifestyles.
“Partnering with Resource Center, Perkins&Will, and Matthews Southwest was a truly rewarding experience,” says Steve Bruszer, president of Spring Valley Construction Co. “We look forward to witnessing the positive impact Oak Lawn Place has on the Dallas community for years to come.”
