Self+Tucker Architects

Melrose New Apartments

Located at the prominent corner of Dallas Street and Douglass Avenue, the new Melrose Apartments mark a significant investment in the future of the Orange Mound community. Positioned adjacent to the newly opened Orange Mound Library—housed in the historic Melrose High School building at 843 Dallas —the development introduces a multifamily housing model that brings much-needed residential diversity to the neighborhood. The Melrose Apartments are designed to expand access to high-quality, affordable housing options in a walkable, transit-accessible area. By offering a type of housing not currently present in Orange Mound, this project addresses a long-standing gap in the community’s residential offerings and supports broader goals of neighborhood revitalization and equitable development. Complementing the surrounding historic neighborhood, the buildings fit within the streetscape with massing, details, materials and porches similar to the nearby single family homes. Beyond housing, the development plays a critical role in connecting residents to vital community services. Its location places future residents within easy walking distance of key neighborhood anchors, including the Orange Mound Library and the Orange Mound Senior and Community Center as well as the CCHS Orange Mound Health Center. This proximity encourages daily engagement with educational, cultural, and wellness resources, strengthening the social fabric of the neighborhood. The Melrose Apartments represent a thoughtful and intentional effort to breathe new life into a historic area while honoring its legacy. Through a combination of strategic location, inclusive design, and community-oriented planning, the development supports ongoing efforts to reinvest in Orange Mound and ensure that long-time residents benefit from the area’s growth and transformation.