The Keets

The Catlin Keets were conceived as a case study in small, high-performance housing—demonstrating how thoughtful design and disciplined material choices can create homes that are healthier, more durable, and more responsible to the communities around them. Designed by a/A Architecture and built in Portland’s St. Johns neighborhood, the project consists of a pair of compact dwellings that prioritize quality of space over quantity of square footage.

The Keets explore a different set of priorities than conventional housing. The design reduces overall size so that resources can be invested in better assemblies, healthier materials, and craft. Natural plasters, locally sourced juniper siding, FSC-certified wood interiors, and high-performance European windows all contribute to spaces that feel calm, durable, and connected to the region. Many of the materials were chosen not only for beauty and longevity but also for their impact on indoor air quality and long-term environmental performance.

Behind the quiet simplicity of the architecture lies a sophisticated building enclosure. Wood-fiber insulation, vapor-permeable assemblies, and mass-wall construction work together to create stable interior conditions while minimizing energy demand. The result is a pair of modest homes designed to last for generations—demonstrating that building smaller can also mean building better. The Keets will soon be available for short- and medium-term rent. Please inquire if you’re interested!