PROJECT: The Loft

LOCATION: 3015 S.W. First Ave., Portland

SIZE: 21,000 square feet

START DATE: March 2025

ANTICIPATED COMPLETION DATE: fall 2026

CONSTRUCTION COST: $12 million

OWNER/DEVELOPER: Ukandu

CONSTRUCTION MANAGER: MearsCPM

GENERAL CONTRACTOR: Walsh Construction

ARCHITECT: Gensler

ENGINEER: Froelich Engineers

OTHER ASSOCIATES/CONSULTANTS: Holzy Designs/Ian Holzworth

PROJECT DESCRIPTION: Construction crews are building The Loft, a community space and headquarters for Ukandu in Portland’s Lair Hill neighborhood. The 40-year-old nonprofit will provide free, year-round support for people impacted by a childhood cancer diagnosis — patients, survivors, siblings and caregivers.

Trauma-informed design was used to create space for inclusive programming and on-site mental health services. The center will offer warm, welcoming spaces where families can come together, as well as unique spaces for teens and caregivers. Amenities will include an active space with an obstacle course, a two-story climbing wall, and a sports simulator bay with golf, baseball, archery and zombie dodgeball; a lounge and sanctuary for caregivers; an arts and crafts room; a multimedia room featuring music and games; a reflection room (an immersive digital environment for celebrating and honoring the lives of loved ones); and an outdoor patio with a firepit, stage and movie screen.

Solar power, LED lighting, low toxicity paint, and high-efficiency appliances are being used for the building.

Pacific Bank was instrumental in helping the owner acquire the building. Construction is being self-financed. Grants were provided by the M.J. Murdock Charitable Trust ($300,000) and the Marie Lamfrom Charitable Foundation ($100,000).

“Building Blocks” spotlights noteworthy projects either under construction or approaching the start of construction. To submit a project for consideration, please visit: djcoregon.com/building-blocks.

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