Perseverance is a thoughtfully designed affordable housing development that includes 32 units of housing alongside five commercial storefronts that contribute to the vibrancy of the neighborhood. The project combines the renovation of two historic buildings with new development on a formerly vacant lot, blending preservation with growth. It also includes the rehabilitation of 1511 Vine Street, a building that has long served as home for Over-the-Rhine Community Housing residents, reinforcing a continued commitment to the community’s history and stability.
The project has received significant recognition for its design and impact, earning the Cincinnati Design Award for Large Scale Building Architecture and the AIA Ohio Merit Award for Newly Completed Buildings. The project was recognized for the “healing” it brought to the neighborhood through affordable housing and thoughtful infill design, demonstrating that affordability can strengthen, rather than detract from, high-quality development.
The name Perseverance reflects a value that has long been central to the mission of Over-the-Rhine Community Housing. The work of developing and managing resident-centered affordable housing to build inclusive communities requires long-term commitment, especially in the face of complex challenges and barriers that often arise in affordable housing development.
The families we serve demonstrate perseverance as well. Many navigate systemic inequities that can make everyday life more difficult. Access to a safe, stable, and affordable home can help make that journey more manageable and provide a stronger foundation for the future.
Sustainability is also a key component of the project. The new construction building at 1505 Vine achieved LEED Gold certification, exceeding standard requirements for energy efficiency. This supports healthier, more comfortable homes while helping reduce utility costs—an important factor in maintaining long-term affordability for residents.
The need for affordable housing in this neighborhood, in Cincinnati, and across the country continues to grow. Projects like Perseverance reflect an ongoing commitment to ensuring that housing—one of the most basic human needs—remains accessible to everyone in the community.
Partners
3CDC | New Republic Architecture | SOL Consulting + Design | TriVersity Construction | Ohio Housing Finance Agency | City of Cincinnati | Cincinnati Development Fund | Ohio Development Services Agency | Ohio Capital Corporation for Housing | Fifth Third Bank.
