Center Commons: Portland, Oregon

A catalyst for revitalized neighborhood livability, Center Commons is an urban mixed-use development of seven buildings that combine residential with retail and intimate private spaces with shared areas. Highlighted by a plaza that is part street, part pedestrian mall, and part park, the project is regarded by TriMet, Portland Development Commission, and the neighborhood as a model for transit-oriented in-fill development.

Featuring preserved landmark vegetation, high-density and energy-efficient housing, the city of Portland’s goal for controlling urban sprawl while preserving green spaces is integral to the Center Commons design. With an emphasis on developing the community through accessibility, the project incorporates walkway shortcuts from public spaces to adjacent light rail and bus lines to strengthen the relationship between housing and transit. The Otak team met several times with the Center Neighborhood Association where many issues were addressed with the community to optimize project elements including the overall design parking, density, and amenities.