Immigrant and Refugee Community Organization (IRCO)
Portland, Oregon
The project was to renovate a former retail lumber yard into the office and client education areas. A new community center and gymnasium building was built on the property together with outdoor plazas and courtyards for ethnic events and celebrations. The design goal was to create a rich built environment using durable materials on a modest construction budget. In addition, innovative design strategies were developed to assist the many non English speaking clients in their orientation and use of the building. Natural light was extensively employed for the interior work areas. Color and architectural form variations were utilized to assist with new user orientation.