MorningStar at Laurelhurst serves a vital role in northeast Portland, offering families the unique opportunity to live within walking distance of their aging loved ones while also providing local seniors with a comforting place to remain in their familiar neighborhood. This senior community strikes a thoughtful balance between the urban vibrancy of Sandy Blvd. and the residential tranquility of the surrounding Laurelhurst neighborhood. Designed with care, the 146,000 sq. ft. building reflects the historic character of the area while introducing modern elements to enhance both form and function. On the urban side, large retail-style windows along the busy commercial street invite interaction between residents and passersby, creating an engaging and active atmosphere. On the residential side, the design responds to the smaller scale of nearby homes with a reduced building mass and a variety of exterior materials, making the structure feel approachable and integrated into the neighborhood. Brick sections echo the nearby Anna Mann Home, while darker paneling adds a contemporary edge. The layout prioritizes access to outdoor spaces, with lush plantings and meandering pathways around the building, and raised garden beds in the memory care terrace offering a peaceful environment for residents. A rooftop terrace with sweeping views of Southeast Portland, an outdoor fireplace, and green spaces atop the garage provide residents with even more ways to enjoy the outdoors. The building’s design is carefully scaled to blend into the historic Laurelhurst neighborhood, while offering modern amenities like a café bistro, art studio, and fitness area on the ground floor. Opening in 2022, MorningStar at Laurelhurst is one of the first urban campuses for the client in Oregon, blending dynamic city life with the comfort and familiarity of home. By enhancing and refreshing the Laurelhurst neighborhood, this senior community serves as both a practical and aesthetically pleasing solution for aging residents and a catalyst for future development along Sandy Blvd.