Amara is a vibrant addition to Portland's urban landscape, marking a key milestone as one of the first multifamily developments to meet the city's new Inclusionary Housing requirements. This seven-story building transforms a formerly underutilized site—once occupied by a tire store—into a dynamic and pedestrian-friendly hub. Located at the edge of the Pearl District, Amara contributes 138 apartments, including 17 affordable units, nearly 9,000 square feet of ground-floor retail, and an inviting lobby with an open-air cloister, seamlessly integrating into the neighborhood fabric. Set at the intersection of two prominent features of Portland, Burnside Street and the North Park Blocks, Amara embraces its unique context. Burnside, as the city’s North-South boundary, connects the East and West sides of the Willamette River, while the North Park Blocks provide a defining civic presence. Amara’s design responds sensitively to both, creating a vibrant public face while amplifying the authentic character of the area. The building’s architectural concept draws inspiration from its gateway location, with a clean, contemporary exterior that exudes a sense of elevation and strength. A striking contrast of concrete, metal, and mahogany-colored windows adds depth and texture, while a water-wall feature separates the private lobby and residences from the bustling street-level retail spaces. The facade's varied panels, in shades of white and grey, echo the aesthetic of nearby landmarks, such as the Pietro Belluschi-designed AT&T building. At street level, Amara greets pedestrians with expansive glass and a café with ample outdoor seating, fostering a social atmosphere while providing shelter from Portland’s weather with a continuous canopy. The design encourages interaction with the adjacent park and connects the lobby to a sunlit courtyard in the heart of the site, allowing natural light to flood the ground-level spaces. Inside, Amara blends practicality with modern design. The three-bedroom affordable apartments are specifically designed for families, while the remaining market-rate units cater to young professionals. A fitness center offers convenience for residents, and both a rooftop deck and a courtyard-facing lounge create spaces for socializing, relaxation, and building community. With its thoughtful integration of market-rate and affordable units, high-quality amenities, and a design that honors the site's history while looking toward the future, Amara exemplifies the potential of thoughtful urban development in Portland.