El Dorado adopts trauma-informed design for Oregon youth
Trauma-informed design transforms Oregon youth services as El Dorado’s Parrott Creek campus becomes a GRAY Awards finalist, showcasing innovative, therapeutic a
El Dorado’s design for the Parrott Creek Child and Family Services campus has been named a finalist in the breakout category of the 8th annual GRAY Awards, highlighting a growing emphasis on trauma‑informed design in youth treatment facilities.
Project scope and funding
The Oregon City campus is slated for a multiphase expansion that will double its residential capacity from 20 to 40 youth. Construction is scheduled for completion in August 2025, with financing sourced from a mix of private donations and public grants. The expanded complex will replace older structures with modern buildings intended to meet the needs of highly traumatized, system‑involved adolescents.
According to the project brief, the new facilities aim to address a documented shortage of specialized treatment spaces across the state. By increasing bed count, Parrott Creek hopes to reduce waiting times for families seeking intensive care.
Design approach and collaborators
El Dorado worked alongside a consortium of specialists to embed trauma‑informed design principles throughout the campus. Outdoor spaces will be shaped by designers from Agency Setting & Planning, a strategy shown to support emotional regulation. Interior design is being handled by Fowler Interior Design, while lighting concepts come from OStructural.
Engineering support includes Valar Consulting Engineering for structural work, PAEC for mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems, and 3J Consulting on civil matters. Acoustic performance will be overseen by ABD Engineering, and environmental graphics are provided by Ditroen.
The design team also consulted with community groups such as Your Street Your Voice, and academic partners including the University of Oregon and the Harvard Graduate School of Design. These collaborations are intended to embed equity‑centered practices and ensure that the built environment reflects the diversity of the families it serves.
One notable element is the “Land Back” initiative, which acknowledges the Indigenous peoples whose ancestral lands host the facility. The plan includes cultural markers and spaces designed to honor these communities, aiming to create a more inclusive setting for all users.
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While the technical specifications are still being refined, the focus on natural light, flexible room layouts, and acoustic buffering aligns with research that links physical environment to therapeutic outcomes. The approach mirrors broader trends in mental health architecture, where designers prioritize spaces that reduce stress triggers and promote safety.
The shift reflects a broader industry pattern that recognizes the importance of environment in recovery. The true impact will become clearer once the new buildings are occupied.
Community impact and future outlook
The project’s mixed funding model also illustrates a collaborative approach to addressing public health needs.
El Dorado’s portfolio, which spans both Kansas City and Portland, includes a reputation for integrating public art and innovative material use. This project continues that trajectory, with plans to incorporate artwork that reflects the cultural heritage of the area.
The award brings new visibility.
As the campus nears its projected completion date, stakeholders will monitor occupancy rates and therapeutic outcomes to gauge the effectiveness of the trauma‑informed design strategy. Recognition may encourage other agencies to consider similar design philosophies for their own facilities.
