Due west of Portland, Oregon, the city of Beaverton has big goals to grow, build more densely, and transition from a car-centric suburban environment to an urban area that embraces multimodal transportation. Our architectural team designed Verso, a mixed-use apartment building that will blend the best of hometown living while adding urban living opportunities in the center of Beaverton.
Situated prominently on the corner of SW 2nd and Lombard, Verso has multiple design elements which complement and contrast one another. We designed Verso’s exterior architectural aesthetic through the concept of multiple experiences. Three different visual expressions give the building a sense of contrast: dark brick, light fiber-concrete panels, and natural wood highlights provide textual nuances and depth. The modern brick portion reflects the nature of Beaverton’s urbanization and growth.
Another visual experience features large, private balconies for residents, which are set back from the street. Three of the ground-level units are enterable via small bridges that seem to float over a block-long rain garden, which manages all rain run-off for the building. Its featured presence speaks to the need for sustainable management of our stormwater, to better buffer the natural environment from human activity.
Around the focal corner, large V-shaped wood supports evoke train trestles, a subtle reference to the nearby railroad that ties the building to its neighborhood’s history. A public pathway along the southern edge of the building eases pedestrian navigation through the large site and neighboring buildings. The private resident courtyard features a landscape screen made of recycled park signs from around Beaverton, a gift of the Rembold family.
Comfort and convenience unite at Verso to offer residents many ways to interact with their community. A private green space features BBQs and firepits for everyone to enjoy. A fitness center, coffee bar, community room and kitchen, gaming and activity room, maker’s space, conference room, and bike storage provide tenants multiple ways to let off steam at the end of the day, entertain friends and family, or spend a quite night in.
Partnering with Beaverton-based developer Rembold Properties for the third time, our synergistic collaboration with this client—and their dedication to improving their community—drove a seamless project from budget to build.