Bud Clark Commons

Lead Designer: John Holmes

Architect of Record: Holst Architecture

Located in Downtown Portland, the Bud Clark Commons provides various services for people experiencing homelessness. Bud Clark Commons is an eight-story mixed-use building that brings together supportive housing, shelter, and social services under one roof. The building combines a public day center, a 90-bed temporary shelter, and 130 permanent supportive housing units, all organized to create a sense of dignity, safety, and community.

The architecture focuses on natural light, clear circulation, and durable, welcoming materials to make the spaces feel open and humane rather than institutional. A central courtyard and large windows bring daylight deep into the building, while the vertical organization balances public and private spaces.

Designed to meet LEED Platinum standards, the project integrates sustainable strategies that reduce environmental impact while supporting long-term operational efficiency.