Bassetti Architects Designs hayu alqi uyxat, a Supportive School for Portland Students
Bassetti Architects has unveiled hayu alqi uyxat (“many future paths” in Chinook), a purpose-built facility designed to bring together Portland Public Schools’ alternative education programs under one roof. Formerly spread across the city in less-than-ideal conditions, students now have a place to call their own. With a deep focus on stakeholder engagement—including students, staff, the broader community, and Indigenous leaders—the design team created a trauma-informed, inclusive environment that supports social-emotional well-being.
The building’s mass timber structure evokes a treehouse, anchored in a forest-inspired site plan. Biophilic graphic design elements reinforce a calming atmosphere, celebrating sustainability and connection to nature.