Oregon Library Transforms Parking Lot into Forest-Inspired Civic Space
Holst Architecture converts underused asphalt into a sustainable, timber-framed community hub in Gresham.
1Urban Land Repurposing
The East County Library in Gresham, Oregon, replaces an underused parking lot with a significant public facility. Opened in May 2026, the 95,000-square-foot structure serves the eastern Multnomah County population. This development directly addresses a regional imbalance where over 40 percent of county residents previously lacked adequate library infrastructure compared to other areas.
2Forest-Inspired Structural Design
Holst Architecture designed the building to evoke a forest canopy through its structural elements. Timber columns rise through ceiling gaps, mimicking tree trunks reaching upward. This forest analogy is integrated into the primary construction rather than being a decorative afterthought, creating a cohesive visual experience that connects the interior environment to nature.
3Collaborative Architectural Approach
Holst Architecture led the project design, working alongside Adjaye Associates during the development phase. The team prioritized a hybrid material palette to meet specific structural and acoustic demands. While glulam beams and cross-laminated timber form the primary system, concrete shear walls provide necessary support for the auditorium and acoustically sensitive interior zones.
4Transit-Oriented Pedestrian Access
The project integrates the library into the local transit network by linking a MAX light rail stop to a terraced entrance plaza on Division Street. A tree-lined pedestrian route creates a defined path between transportation hubs and the building. This arrangement transforms the approach into an intentional part of the overall visitor experience.
5Spatial Organization Strategy
The interior layout organizes spaces based on activity levels, moving from active zones on the west to quiet areas on the east. Creative studios and children’s play areas occupy the busier edges, while collections and reading rooms are positioned centrally. This configuration acknowledges the diverse needs of contemporary library users seeking both social interaction.
6Inclusive Community Features
Community consultations shaped the library's specific provisions, including an audiovisual studio and a creative learning room. The facility features two specialized sensory rooms designed for both children and adults, offering adjustable lighting and quiet zones. These spaces provide flexible environments for visitors to engage with the library or withdraw for personal focus.
7Sustainability and Efficiency
The library targets LEED Gold certification, incorporating radiant flooring and rooftop solar panels to manage energy consumption. The architectural design emphasizes spatial efficiency, ensuring the large building accommodates various levels of public participation. By balancing active and quiet zones, the design supports the simple human need to sit and read in peace.
8Civic Infrastructure Impact
This project demonstrates how underutilized urban land can be converted into essential civic infrastructure. By prioritizing both structural innovation and community-driven programming, the library serves as a model for future public developments. The successful implementation highlights the importance of aligning architectural scale with the actual demographic needs of a growing regional population.