Jackson Ward Apartments
Jackson Ward Apartments consists of 154 units designed for low-income seniors and mixed-income residents. Located on the site of the former St. Joseph’s Catholic Church, the development includes three newly constructed buildings and a historic renovation of a former convent. The new buildings feature traditional wood frame construction, while the convent has been carefully restored to preserve its historic character. Additionally, a one-story retail building with a steel and bar joist structure adds to the vibrant community atmosphere. One of the new buildings, The Rosa, provides 72 homes for low-income seniors and is named in honor of Rosa Dixon Bowser, a pioneering local educator.
The apartment complex boasts a modern exterior with a combination of brick and fiber cement panel siding. The design incorporates flat roofs, lower floor canopies, regular and Juliette balconies, and a prominent parapet. Inside, the apartments feature vinyl plank flooring, shaker-style cabinets, and contemporary fixtures. Residents can enjoy a range of community amenities, including a fitness room, computer space, and a dog wash area.






Affordable Living in a Landmark Neighborhood
- Location
- Richmond, VA
- Sector
- Affordable Housing – New
- Client
- Enterprise Community Development
- Architect
- Grimm + Parker Architect
- Scope
- 154 units / 182 gsf
- Structure
- Wood Frame / Concrete
EarthCraft Platinum Certified
The Rosa building at Jackson Ward Apartments earned EarthCraft Platinum certification, recognizing the project’s commitment to high-performance, sustainable construction. This achievement reflects careful attention to energy efficiency, indoor air quality, and long-term environmental impact. It also supports the development’s goal of providing healthy, resilient housing in a revitalizing historic neighborhood.
Historical Legacy
Jackson Ward Apartments is deeply connected to the historic neighborhood it calls home. Once a center of Black enterprise, culture, and community life in Richmond, Jackson Ward played a pivotal role in African American history. The area’s legacy of resilience and innovation continues to influence its ongoing revitalization, making it a fitting location for a development that honors the past while supporting a diverse and inclusive future.