Propel Studio Architecture

01/22/2025

Our latest blog post takes a look back at the project that brought our founders, Nick Mira and Tuan Vu, together: the award-winning modernization of the Edith Green–Wendell Wyatt Federal Building. This transformative experience not only expanded on their vision for sustainable design but also laid the foundation for Propel Studio in 2013. Read more about how we continue to redefine public building design with innovative, high-performance solutions.

At Propel Studio, we believe public building design is one of the most rewarding challenges in architecture. These projects not only address common needs in our communities but also provide the opportunity to implement forward-thinking, sustainable ideals that benefit people and the planet. Our pas

09/30/2024

Last week, Tuan and Nick had the pleasure of attending the Housing Oregon Industry Support Conference and Gala. It was inspiring to witness all the incredible work being done to design, fund, build, and manage affordable housing across Oregon.
The conference provided an excellent opportunity for us to engage with industry leaders and exchange innovative ideas focused on real solutions for creating affordable, beautiful, and sustainable housing. We participated in insightful panel discussions, learned from experts during Q&A sessions, and reconnected with colleagues from across the regional AEC community—all while making valuable new connections.

With so many great topics, it was difficult to choose between sessions, but thankfully Housing Oregon will make all the sessions available for continued learning. We're excited to carry forward the insights gained and apply our housing design expertise to furthering the mission of making Oregon a place where housing is available for everyone.

A big thank you to Housing Oregon for organizing such an impactful event!

09/23/2024

We are thrilled to share that our Wilder Apartments project was featured as the Seattle Daily Journal of Commerce Project of the Week last week! Check out the feature here: https://lnkd.in/ebP8EvJ9

At Propel Studio, we believe that new housing is good housing, especially when it’s urban, transit-oriented, and thoughtfully designed to be both functional and beautiful. Wilder Apartments is a great example of how we’re working towards sustainable housing in our cities.

We’re also excited to be part of the conversation at the Housing Oregon 2024 Conference and Awards Gala happening this week in Portland! This is an incredible opportunity to connect, learn, and collaborate with industry leaders about innovative ideas, cutting-edge research, and essential resources for affordable housing practitioners. We’re looking forward to being catalysts for change in our communities as we work together to craft real solutions to the housing crisis.

Let’s keep pushing forward towards a future where everyone has access to affordable, beautiful, and sustainable housing!

08/19/2024

Propel Studio Architecture recently had the privilege of attending the NE Oregon Housing Summit, an event organized by Housing Oregon. The summit brought together key stakeholders—including local jurisdictions, developers, service providers, and community leaders—to create a regionally workable housing continuum that spans shelter, supportive housing, and workforce housing solutions. We are grateful to Housing Oregon for bringing together such knowledgeable moderators and panelists to discuss the critical issues Oregon is facing with affordable housing development.

The summit highlighted the urgent need for more housing of all types in Oregon to address the ongoing affordability and homelessness crisis. It was an enlightening experience to hear from experts and community leaders about the innovative solutions and collaborative efforts being made to tackle these challenges.

At Propel Studio, we are committed to contributing to the development of sustainable and inclusive housing solutions. We believe that by working together, we can create a future where everyone has access to safe and affordable housing.

Thank you, Housing Oregon, for hosting such an impactful event. We look forward to continuing the conversation and working towards a brighter future for all Oregonians.

08/05/2024

🏗️ We’re pleased to share that the Wilder Apartments mixed-use project is now complete! ✨ Here’s a snapshot from our team’s walk-through last week. We are deeply grateful to all our project partners for their collaboration in bringing this wonderful addition to the Capitol Hill neighborhood. 📸

Revolve Colvos Construction KPFF - Seattle 4EA Building Science , A3 Acoustics , Michael Nouwens Structural Consultants , Endelman & Associates , PanGEO

Western Forest Products Real Cedar

06/17/2024

Our latest project explores the full potential of an existing Craftsman home located in southeast Portland. This renovation aims to transform the space to better suit the needs of a family of four, providing more home office space, play space, and areas for future guests and family gatherings. Key goals include improving circulation and connections between levels, adding storage spaces, and enhancing the connection to the outdoors and the backyard.

Currently, we're developing concept designs for renovating the basement and main floor while planning for a future second-floor expansion in the spacious empty attic. Whole house renovations like this require a careful balance of budget and planning for future family needs. We're thrilled to collaborate with a construction partner to bring new life to this fantastic old Portland home.

Stay tuned for updates on this transformative journey!

06/03/2024

At Propel Studio, we see adaptive reuse as a transformative journey, breathing new life into forgotten buildings while honoring their historical essence. Each project is a harmonious blend of past and present, where vacant spaces are reborn as vibrant community hubs. Through our commitment to sustainability and community-focused design, we strive to create environments that not only serve but also inspire. For more insights into our adaptive reuse philosophy and projects, visit our blog here:

https://www.propelstudio.com/blog/art-of-adaptive-reuse



Highwater Cafe & Market

05/29/2024

🏡 Are you considering a new home to expand your family’s living situation, but finding the financial implications of making a move in today’s market totally daunting?

Perhaps it’s time to consider an ADU!

With today’s high mortgage costs and economic uncertainty, adding an Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) is a smart way to expand your existing home, increase property value, or even generate extra income. Whether it’s for family, guests, rental, or a home office, an ADU offers flexible living space without the need to move. Contact us to turn your vision into reality!

https://www.propelstudio.com/blog/maximizeadupotential

05/09/2024

Did you know that thanks to Portland’s Residential Infill Project (RIP) and updated zoning codes, many properties in the city are now permitted to build two ADU’s on each lot. This groundbreaking initiative opens up a world of possibilities for homeowners, and we are here to help you make the most of it.

With over a decade of experience and a diverse portfolio featuring hundreds of ADUs designed, Propel Studio specializes in crafting designs that perfectly complement both your property and your lifestyle. Here are just a few of the ways that thoughtfully designed ADUs can transform your space:

https://www.propelstudio.com/blog/adupotential

03/12/2024

At Propel Studio Architecture, community engagement isn’t just a service – it’s our passion. We’re thrilled to share a sneak peek into our current community project: the Gateway Pavilion, a beacon of unity and identity for East Portland’s Gateway District!

✨ Embodying Community Unity: Crafted to celebrate Gateway’s diverse culture and heritage, our pavilion is a symbol of identity and connection.

📍 Guiding the Way: Located near the Gateway Transit Center, it serves as a central meeting point with wayfinding signage directing visitors to Gateway Green and beyond.

🎨 Inspired by History, Designed for the Future: Drawing from the area’s past and present, our design pays homage to Gateway’s rich tapestry of stories and traditions.

🔧 Construction Phase Ahead: While still in the concept stage, we’re excited to bring this vision to life using innovative materials and techniques.

Stay tuned for updates as we embark on this journey to shape a vibrant future for Gateway District!