Urban Design Studio

MISSION

To explore, develop, and implement urban design visions, concepts and approaches for the ongoing and intentional evolution of the City of Portland.

APPROACH

The Urban Design Studio applies the design process to all its work. Typically, the design process includes existing conditions analysis, issue identification, concept development, alternatives analysis, refinement and selection.

The UDS explores new and/or different urban design ideas that frame existing land use patterns and forms while giving shape to new places throughout the city. The studio’s exploration of new places offers an ongoing opportunity to describe and strengthen Portland’s existing strong sense of place, high quality of life and rich diversity of natural and built forms.

The studio takes the initiative in leading and facilitating design discussions that are not always intended to arrive at broadly shared consensus or compromise. This process of testing new ideas, engaging in deliberate, targeted debate and weighing important choices offers critical opportunities for the introduction of innovative design solutions to different urban design issues.