The sprawling 5.1-acre grounds of the former Oak Grove Elementary School, abandoned for a decade in Richmond, Virginia, is on the brink of a major transformation. Through the visionary partnership of Lynx Ventures and Maggie Walker Community Land Trust—collectively known as Oak Grove Partners—these dormant halls are going back to class, this time graduating into a vibrant affordable housing haven.

With 250 units and fifteen single-family dwellings, Oak Grove is a community derived from its surroundings. Paying special attention to the neighborhood’s context, the design draws inspiration from adjacent bungalows by utilizing materials like brick and plank siding. Shifts in material spacing and pitched roofs echo the surrounding scale and form while modern elements, such as metal accents, offer a contemporary touch.

The amenities speak to practicality and community. A swimming pool offers relaxation, while increased tree cover addresses urban heat concerns. Electric vehicle charging stations align with sustainability goals. At the heart of it all, a 2,500-square-foot versatile community hub accommodates meetings and essential services for residents and neighbors alike.