Portland State University, Karl Miller Center

SBA
PSU Karl Miller Center
SBA
SBA
SBA
A dramatic renovation and expansion transformed PSU’s School of Business into a hub of activity for the next generation of business leaders. With an emphasis on creating community and inclusive approaches towards learning, the architecture and landscape architecture work together to create cohesive indoor/outdoor relationships and engage the greater urban campus. Two entry plazas, each with staggered rectilinear planters and custom benches, create informal break out spaces that function independently for small gatherings, or collectively for larger events. A covered seating area with café tables and chairs supports retail at a highly visible corner. Two roof terraces provide additional flexible outdoor space with city views and ADA access to existing skybridges. Ecoroofs on 4 levels appear as a series of terracing green spaces, creating a visual, as well as ecological, amenity. All building and site stormwater runoff is conveyed to stormwater planters and treated on site. A vegetated stone cobble channel artfully conveys stormwater while enhancing the streetscape on Montgomery Street. The Karl Miller Center is LEED Platinum certified.

Owner: Portland State University

Architect: Behnisch Architekten

Architect: SRG Partnership

Photography: C. Bruce Forster

SBA
PSU Karl Miller Center
SBA
SBA
SBA

A dramatic renovation and expansion transformed PSU’s School of Business into a hub of activity for the next generation of business leaders. With an emphasis on creating community and inclusive approaches towards learning, the architecture and landscape architecture work together to create cohesive indoor/outdoor relationships and engage the greater urban campus. Two entry plazas, each with staggered rectilinear planters and custom benches, create informal break out spaces that function independently for small gatherings, or collectively for larger events. A covered seating area with café tables and chairs supports retail at a highly visible corner. Two roof terraces provide additional flexible outdoor space with city views and ADA access to existing skybridges. Ecoroofs on 4 levels appear as a series of terracing green spaces, creating a visual, as well as ecological, amenity. All building and site stormwater runoff is conveyed to stormwater planters and treated on site. A vegetated stone cobble channel artfully conveys stormwater while enhancing the streetscape on Montgomery Street. The Karl Miller Center is LEED Platinum certified.

Owner

Portland State University, Karl Miller Center Portland, OR

Services

Landscape Architecture
Urban Design

Sustainable Features

Green roofs and eco-roofs
LEED Platinum certified
Native plants & wildlife habitat
Stormwater treatment & bioswales
Transit connections/alternative transportation

Awards

American Society of Landscape Architects, Oregon Chapter, Honor Award, General Design, 2018