Ellen Browning
We wanted a lot of light, comfort, and livability and most importantly, being able to enjoy terraces, green spaces, and sunshine – together and yet separately. Traditional buildings do not allow for common areas and privacy to this extent, Hacker Architects, heard us and delivered.
Molly McCabe
Home owner
Ellen Browning
Portland, Oregon
34,000 SF
Client Notes
Create a collective of urban homes for a group of tight-knit family members. Balance the togetherness of cohousing with the independence and privacy of apartment living. Design single-level private living spaces with abundant daylight and connection to nature, with gracious communal spaces for exercise and socializing.
Designer Notes
Located in a mixed retail and commercial district, the design seeks to complement both its residential side and the side that fronts a busy sidewalk. Terraced patios with verdant, leafy privacy screens step down the building to the street level, carving the building's four stories down to a smaller scale. The ground floor has two retail spaces, making this a true mixed-use project in the spirit of the neighborhood. Accessibility is prioritized, and the many shared social spaces, exercise, and spa amenities are designed to support seniors and remain flexible with them as they age. Distinguishing the design to be more similar to a custom single family home than a commercial multi family building is present in the fluted detailing of the customized terracotta cladding.
Recognition
AIA Oregon Honor Award, 2024
People
Vijayeta Davda / Sam Yerke / Emily Knudsen / Matt Sugarbaker / Lewis Williams / Kari Hayenga / Justin Mayo / Joe Swank / Whitney Jordan / Emily Hays / Lale Ceylan / Kagan Reardon
Corey Martin, Design Principal
Scott Mannhard, Project Manager
