The Killingsworth Project

Portland, OR
2026

The Killingsworth Project is a creative commercial building that showcases earthquake resilient sustainable building technology. Sitting within the historic greater Albina neighborhood of Portland, the home of a thriving African American community following World War II, this area suffered from many of Portland’s discriminatory lending practices and lack of investment through the latter half of the 20th century and is now a U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) HubZone.

Overview

Idea

Create an earthquake Resilience Hub to house organizations that work collaboratively to support small businesses in a historically underutilized zone.

Implementation

Utilizing “CLT rocking-wall technology,” this building can rock and recenter after a major earthquake with little-to-no damage, serving as a demonstration of advanced technology to exceed code and provide a cost-effective seismic solution for buildings between three and twelve stories.

Results

Adre is developing a three-story community building to feature roof patios at each level, high ceilings, and ample light to contribute to a flexible, modern working environment, enabling organizations and small businesses to find ways to offer their services and expertise back to the community.

The Killingsworth Project

Mass Timber Structure

Main Lobby with View to Community Room

CLT Rocking Wall Structure

Second Floor Lobby Space

Highlights

First U.S. commercial building to use mass timber “Rocking Wall” technology
Working collaboratively with City of Portland for new earthquake-resilient building pathway via a peer review and Performance-Based Design process
Secured two federal grants for wood innovations
Working with four culturally specific chambers to support economic development and business incubation