Community leaders, partners and residents gathered July 8,2026, to celebrate the grand opening of Aurora Place, a new affordable housing community that brings 40 newly constructed, energy-efficient cottage-style homes to Washburn, Wisconsin.
Developed through a partnership between Cinnaire Solutions, the City of Washburn and Bayfield County, Aurora Place was created to address the growing need for attainable housing for the region’s workforce and seniors while strengthening the long-term vitality of the community.
The celebration featured remarks from local and state leaders, a ribbon cutting ceremony and tours of the completed development.
“When reflecting on Aurora Place, I’m humbled by the power of this community,” said Christopher Laurent, President of Cinnaire Solutions. “It really brings home the importance of housing everywhere—literally in every corner of our great state. Our team is grateful to execute the vision of these community leaders to provide income achievable housing not just today but well into the future. That’s what true sustainable housing is rooted in—the long view and the courage to make it happen.”
Aurora Place includes 40 thoughtfully designed cottage-style homes and a community building that promotes neighborhood connection while providing safe, energy-efficient and affordable housing options. The development represents years of collaboration among local, state and financing partners committed to expanding housing opportunities in rural Wisconsin.
As part of the development, Cinnaire Solutions issued a request for proposals to local and regional artists, seeking art that would foster a sense of place and community identity by reflecting beauty of the Chequamegon Bay region. Wisconsin artist Jesse Fritsch was selected to create murals on both the front and back of the community clubhouse, honoring the landscape and spirit of the local community.
Speakers at the grand opening included:
- Kelly Westlund, Bayfield County Deputy Administrator
- Mary Motiff, Mayor, City of Washburn
- Jan Lee, Chair, Bayfield County Board of Supervisors
- Elmer Moore, Jr., CEO, Wisconsin Housing and Economic Development Authority (WHEDA)
- Christopher Laurent, President, Cinnaire Solutions
Aurora Place was made possible through the partnership and support of the Wisconsin Housing and Economic Development Authority (WHEDA), U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), Bayfield County, the City of Washburn, Wisconsin Department of Administration, Associated Bank, Cinnaire and the Federal Home Loan Bank of Chicago.
The development was designed by ISG Inc. and constructed by Borton Construction. Property management services are provided by Impact Management Group.
Aurora Place demonstrates how strategic partnerships and long-term investment can help rural communities address workforce housing challenges, support seniors who wish to remain in their communities, and create opportunities for future economic growth.