Block Repair Project

Portland, OR

​This project is a retrofit prototype for the conversion of typical semi-urban blocks within the colonial grid. The idea is that the ubiquitous “block” of residential development, which is always created without interior or exterior gathering places and even without provision for social structures, becomes transformed into a vibrant multi-generational village. Reengaged place based power results in numerous creative expressions such as shared identity and frequent collaborative projects, mutually beneficial systems including urban agriculture, water catchment, composting, gathering places, artistic expression, and celebrations. Initiated in 1996 as a compliment to the Intersection Repair (public square) Project, this is a socially driven process that is emerging as village infrastructure. This ts also the block where City Repair began, and Block Repair is one of its projects. As with many related projects, communitecture has provided supporting technical services and resources to assist with this engaging ongoing project.