The Canyons

The Canyons brings the richness of natural wood to a 70-unit urban apartment building in Portland, Oregon. Constructed with cross-laminated timber (CLT), the material is left exposed in portions of the units and the open, light-filled access bridges to bring the outdoors inside. This design choice not only helps to simplify the building’s aesthetics, but also works to reduce its overall carbon impact.

4EA’s role extended beyond our typical role of moisture protection of the enclosure elements. CLT is more sensitive to precipitation than standard dimensional lumber. This posed challenges when the panels were installed during a wet winter in Portland. 4EA worked with the design and construction team to Find a Solution for temporary protection of the structure and determining dry-out procedures.

Photos © Jeremy Bitterman.

• Mid-Rise Apartments