Located in downtown Hood River, Oregon, Holst designed this four-story mixed-use building that is modern in detail, scale, and function, nestled favorably within an historic context. Traditional materials of brick and wood are used to complement the modern expression of the concrete structure, as the building mass steps back to form an adjacent outdoor plaza.
Access to light and views was achieved by creating an intimate public courtyard between buildings, which also supports the retail tenants by providing outdoor spaces that are protected from the notorious Columbia River Gorge winds.
The loft-style units have expansive floor-to-ceiling windows with panoramic views of the Gorge and Mount Adams. Cherry is used throughout, from the custom-designed fireplace to the reading nook's built-in couch and shelves. Floors are concrete slab with radiant heating.
Ground-floor retail and a cafe contribute to a lively street presence; the multi-purpose outdoor space is used for performances and a farmer's market. The pedestrian corridor is a response to Hood River’s walkability and the building's prime location in the heart of the town's retail district.