A growing Portland has seen many arguments about how to accommodate an influx of residents—recommends the "step back" as a way to add density without adding shadows or creating wind tunnels.
The top of a building can have big impacts on shadows, wind passage, and views. Too often, Portland buildings are just blocks, argues Michael Mehaffy in a piece for Livable Portland. A preferable option would be to build "step backs" (step-like recessions at the tops of buildings) as a way to resolve some of the conflicts between the YIMBY crowd and those concerned about development in the city.
Why don't developers build more step back projects? "Profit-minded developers usually make more money when they go straight up from the street," Mehaffy argues. "But going straight up is precisely what a generation of failed “modernist” projects did in the 1960s, with very unhappy results," he goes on to say. Those who say they're concerned about the look of a project or its potential shadows might not be easily satisfied with this compromise, still the step back seems to be a good option for those that seek to build coalitions and…buildings.
FULL STORY: Is it time for Portland to rediscover the “step-back”?
Portland Approves ‘Residential Infill Project – Part 2' to Add New Forms of Residential Density
The city of Portland is already building upon the historic work of the Residential Infill Project, approved by the city in August 2021, with a new slate of zoning changes dubbed the ‘Residential Infill Project – Part 2.”
The 'Most Pro-Housing Reform in U.S. History' Expected for Approval Today in Portland
The Portland Residential Infill Project is expected for approval by the Portland City Council today, culminating a six year process that became more and more ambitious with every iteration.
Portland Adjusts Residential Infill Plan to Minimize Displacement
Portland wants to add density but doesn't want to displace current residents of low- and middle-income neighborhoods.
The City of Broken Sidewalks
Can Los Angeles fix 4,000 miles of broken sidewalks before the city hosts the 2028 Olympic Games?
Shifts in Shopping: Transforming Malls Into Parks
Maybe zombie malls still have a second life — one with a little greenery.
Major US Cities Still Suffering Downtown Decline
Research shows that the “donut effect” hollowing out central business districts since the pandemic continues to cause economic decline in the 12 largest American cities.
Oklahoma Housing Agencies Face Major Budget Gaps
Housing authorities around the country will have a shortfall of $400 million by the end of this year.
Survey: Americans Finding it Harder to ‘Age in Place’
While many people over 65 would prefer to stay in their homes and communities, high housing costs and a lack of accessible infrastructure make it difficult.
Old Walls, New Homes
From forgotten buildings to thriving neighborhoods, adaptive reuse has the power to transform our cities.
Urban Design for Planners 1: Software Tools
This six-course series explores essential urban design concepts using open source software and equips planners with the tools they need to participate fully in the urban design process.
Planning for Universal Design
Learn the tools for implementing Universal Design in planning regulations.
City of Prescott
Alamo Area Metropolitan Planning Organization
Village of Glen Ellyn
HUDs Office of Policy Development and Research
CORP - COnsulting Research Projects
City of Cambridge, Maryland
Newport County Development Council: Connect Greater Newport
Rockdale County Board of Commissioners