As part of the new campus development for the Roux Institute at Northeastern University, AKLA was engaged to shape the urban design framework for a prominent new building in Portland. The project focused on creating a dynamic public realm that supports both institutional identity and urban connectivity. Key elements of the design include a welcoming outdoor plaza that defines the building’s main entry, serving as a civic space for gathering, orientation, and engagement. A woonerf-style shared street/drop-off area prioritizes pedestrian comfort while accommodating multimodal access. Streetscape improvements—such as custom benches, pedestrian-scale lighting, and layered street plantings. Throughout the design process, AKLA explored broader urban connections—linking the site to Portland’s waterfront, transit systems, and adjacent neighborhoods—to ensure the campus contributes meaningfully to the city’s evolving fabric.