The new Carlton Civic Center combines community center, city office, and public safety functions into one new building a block from the small city’s downtown core. The design’s organization, form, materials, and features create a fitting presence for City functions tailored to Carlton’s history, character, and industries.
Holst’s involvement with the project began in 2019 while helping guide George Fox University design students to develop a program and concept for a new City Hall as part of a final student project. These student concepts were presented to city council to help initiate interest and community engagement for a proposed new City Hall. While the basis for the project evolved due to practical considerations, the student concept helped set the groundwork for the program and for an intentional, defining gesture in the final design.
Holst’s design divides the building into two primary wings – a community and public service wing to the east, and a secure public safety wing to the west – both flanking the inviting community oriented lobby that bisects the building into its two primary wings. This central circulation space also doubles as a pre-function space for the new ground floor community room.
