Gallagher Plaza

The renovation of Gallagher Plaza, a six-story multifamily building located in a dense residential neighborhood in NW Portland, upgraded the building into a beautiful, safe space for affordable housing.

Project Details

Location

Portland, OR

Client

Home Forward

Year Completed

2016

Project Size

66,000 sq. ft.
85 units

Sustainability

The renovation prioritized improving the building’s energy efficiency, durability, operating expenses, and the health and safety of residents. The structure was updated to the current code; energy-efficient LED lighting will save money and resources, and a new heat recovery ventilator on the roof will retain heat while letting out stale air, greatly improving the air quality for staff and residents.

Land Recognition

We have a responsibility to not only acknowledge but also elevate Native communities and their needs. This project sits in the area currently known as Portland, which encompasses the traditional village sites of the Multnomah, Wasco, Cowlitz, Kathlamet, Clackamas, Bands of Chinook, Tualatin Kalapuya, Molalla, and many other tribes who made their homes along the Columbia River.

Educating ourselves is an important action. We encourage you to explore the stories of these communities through Native-led resources like David G. Lewis, PhD’s The Quartux Journal and Leading with Tradition.

Reinvigorating Affordable Housing Across Portland

Holst has worked with Home Forward on renovating and preserving its portfolio of existing affordable housing buildings, with a particular focus on those serving our community’s most vulnerable populations. Gallagher Plaza, which primarily houses seniors and people with disabilities, was built in 1981 and renovated in 2001. The building needed structural, mechanical, exterior, and aesthetic upgrades to extend the life of the building and enhance livability for residents.

Exterior Upgrades

The exterior was redesigned to increase daylighting and views. Fiber-reinforced concrete planks replaced the failing synthetic stucco exterior. New windows and a new roof improved the building’s energy efficiency and extends the life of the structure. A subtle variation of tone helps support the building’s existing massing, while pops of color highlight the entries and windows.