Portland Mercado Rebuild

Reimagining and rebuilding Portland Mercado

Portland Mercado is an epicenter of Latinx culture and community in SE Portland. When a fire damaged the structure and prompted its closure, Hacienda CDC reached out to Scott Edwards Architecture to revisit the original design and restore the building with an eye to the future. Beyond fire restoration, SEA worked alongside the owner to reimagine the space and expand upon the original concept with new additions that further opportunities for connection and economic activity.

Location
Portland, OR

Size
7,000 sf

Year
Estimated Summer 2026

Colors, textures, and patterns are inspired by the Latinx community, and sustainable and healthy materials were specified in alignment with Prosper Portland’s requirements for grant funding.

The ground floor of the Mercado maintains its function as a market hall featuring Latin American businesses and supporting community events. Outdoor dining and a restored food cart pod are augmented with a new covered rooftop deck and bar. The renovation maintains the tradition of the Mercado’s bright exterior color scheme, interpreting it in a new color palette inspired by modern Latin American design. The interior design features earth tones and takes cues from ceramics, textiles, and other handcrafted traditions that form a cultural common thread throughout Latin America.