On the corner of MLK Jr Blvd and Fremont, our building sits on a location that was once at the center of riots in the late 1960′s when MLK Blvd was called Union Avenue. This historical context is extremely meaningful in regard to our services focused on minorities and recovery from trauma, and further contributes to our commitment and purpose.

 

 

This space brings to life the Center for Trauma Recovery‘s model that includes aspects of the physical environment.We were fortunate to obtain the support from Portland Development Commission to build-out the unoccupied and empty second floor and mezzanine in a way that best suited our model and therapeutic goals.

“Can the spaces around us help us heal? Can we design places so as to enhance their healing properties? And if we ignore the qualities of physical context, could we inadvertently slow the healing process and make illness worse?”

- E. M. Sternberg, Healing Spaces

The answers appear to be yes to all 3 questions. Research conducted primarily in hospital inpatient units has shown the effects of physical environment on healing. For example, windows with views of trees resulted in shorter post-surgery recoveries compared to patients in typical recovery units. While many hospitals and specialty clinics now include healing aspects of space into their design, outpatient mental health settings, and community mental health in particular, typically lack these qualities.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Our goal is to provide a relaxing, comfortable and welcoming space for all those who have experienced trauma and who are embarking on their recovery.

 

 

 

 

 

Concept and Design by John G. Wallis, architect, and Fabiana Wallis

Project Team rhiza A+D www.rhizaaplusd.com and B&G Builders