How Design Supports Food Security in Central Oregon

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(NeighborImpact | Photo courtesy of Griffin Construction)

As Central Oregon’s population grows, the need for affordable housing and essential resources continues to outpace availability. Many residents face rent burdens that leave little room for basic necessities like food. To help address food insecurity, NeighborImpact Food Network operates the region’s largest food assistance program, serving three counties and the Confederated Tribes of Warm Springs, and feeding approximately 75,000 individuals each month.

To support NeighborImpact’s expanding operations, Pinnacle Architecture designed a new, 10,000-square-foot efficient warehouse facility at 2303 SW First Street in Redmond that replaces the organization’s former warehouse and repacking center. The new building includes loading docks, adequate storage, administrative offices and a flexible community space with [a]teaching kitchen, reflecting the evolving needs of the organization.

As NeighborImpact’s food distribution has shifted toward more fresh produce and perishable items, the facility required increased refrigerated storage and larger repacking areas. Pinnacle’s design maximizes the building footprint through high-density racking and multiuse spaces, ensuring operational efficiency. Site circulation, previously a challenge due to the mix of warehouse traffic, administrative staff, public volunteers and other services, was thoughtfully reimagined to improve safety and flow. Cost-conscious features were prioritized, including floor-to-ceiling windows in the community and office areas and strategically placed skylights throughout the warehouse to provide abundant natural light. The facility was constructed by Griffin Construction and completed in January.

With the new facility complete, NeighborImpact is now better positioned to meet the growing demand for food assistance across Central Oregon. The thoughtfully designed space enhances operational efficiency while supporting the organization’s mission to serve the community with dignity and care. Recognizing the broader need across the state, Pinnacle Architecture is also partnering with the Community Action Program of East Central Oregon to renovate their existing food warehouse and assist with the planned expansion of the Madras Community Food Pantry, which is currently seeking funding. These efforts reflect a statewide commitment to strengthening food security and supporting vulnerable populations through purposeful design.

Briana is Pinnacle’s president and a specialist in healthcare, housing and civic design. She is an Evidence-Based Design (EBD) certified professional. She bases decisions about the built environment on credible research to achieve the best possible outcomes. With more than 17 years of experience designing healthcare environments, she thrives on working with her clients to explore unique design ideas and integrate proven design solutions. Briana is actively involved in the Central Oregon community, currently serving on the Bend Development Advisory Board.

Briana@parch.biz • 541-388-9897×22

pinnaclearchitecture.com

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Briana is Pinnacle’s president and a specialist in healthcare, housing and civic design. She is an Evidence-Based Design (EBD) certified professional. She bases decisions about the built environment on credible research to achieve the best possible outcomes. With more than 17 years of experience designing healthcare environments, she thrives on working with her clients to explore unique design ideas and integrate proven design solutions. Briana is actively involved in the Central Oregon community, currently serving on the Bend Development Advisory Board.

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