Multnomah County’s Joint Office of Homeless Services (JOHS) operates a variety of shelters within the community. JOHS leased a 42-room motel in Portland’s outer southeast area to serve homeless families. Formerly known as the Briarwood Inn, the reimagined Lilac Meadows Shelter now provides temporary housing for up to 42 families.

CHA provided design services over several phases. Prior to leasing the building, CHA provided a building assessment and documented existing conditions. The team designed accessibility upgrades for two units and an expansion of the laundry facilities.  We then planned and oversaw the installation and fit-out of two modular buildings – a 900 SF commercial kitchen building and a 1,400 SF community building. Placement of the modular buildings required extensive negotiations with the City related to design review approval and permitting the pre-manufactured structures.

The completed facility provides shelter for families with private rooms with kitchenettes, fostering family dignity and independence. The community kitchen and dining room provide not just meals but opportunities for shelter meetings, family gathering, fellowship and shared childcare.