Built during a transformative time for Portland’s Central Eastside neighborhood, Skylar Grand Apartments distinguishes the experiences of residents, offering a vivid and comprehensive multi-family living environment. This mixed-use apartment building is conveniently situated with stunning views and easy access to downtown, making it an ideal location for young professionals. We have an opportunity to help set the tone for the Central Eastside community. The building is the first landmark passersby see when they enter the area from the Lloyd District, and the last place they see as they leave. Conceptualized as artfully stacked boxes, Skylar Grand Apartments catches the eye from afar and offers impressive detail as closer up. We crafted a multi-faceted façade that balances simplicity with intricacy, paying special attention to how the materials come together. Drawing on the region’s history, the overlapping, stacked arrangement of balconies is a subtle nod from the piles of logs that were transported up and down the Willamette River. Residents are connected to this aspect of Portland’s past as the massing of the project highlights river views to the West and mountain views to the East. Aesthetically, our design bridges the charming historic structures and bold modern buildings that have developed in the neighborhood. Minimalism in color activates the dynamic textural elements of the all metal-clad exterior, combining white ribbed panels paired with smooth silver around the windows. Bronze metal is carried up from the two-story base through the balconies to break up the design and play off the warmth of the ground-floor’s wood canopies. At night, a frame of lights makes the balconies appear like glowing portals. The amenities stylistically and functionally reflect Portland’s vibrant young professional population. A bike lounge, pet space, gym, social areas, and ground floor retail provide unmatched convenience. The pair of roof decks offer separate areas for private parties or larger gatherings with unique indoor spaces that have high ceilings and large windows adds an all-seasons amenity. Below, the building’s pocket park includes planters and art features that sustainably manage stormwater. Skylar Grand Apartments synthesizes the best components of the Central Eastside neighborhood. Our highly technically yet visually simple design pushes the limits of what is possible structurally, resulting in a timeless, trend-setting design that will adapt with the evolving area.