Scheduled to open in 2029, the Tykeson Child Behavioral Health Building will unite two of the University of Oregon’s behavioral health programs—the Ballmer Institute for Children’s Behavioral Health and the Prevention Science Institute—in a 54,000-square-foot facility in Portland, Ore.
Designed by ZGF Architects (Portland), the project expands access to care, advances evidence-based research, and prepares the next generation of behavioral health professionals through a training clinic serving children and families. A telehealth center will extend these services to rural communities across Oregon.
Healing-centered and sensory-responsive design in behavioral health spaces
The building’s design draws on a healing-centered design framework, developed by Mindful Insights Consulting (Los Angeles), which integrates behavioral health research, environmental psychology, and sensory mapping. Stakeholders identified 14 project priorities spanning architecture, interiors, materials, lighting, acoustics, and landscaping, emphasizing safety, sensory regulation, privacy, and connection.
A four-season sensory garden leads visitors to the clinic entry, giving children and families space to pause and engage with nature. Inside, clinic spaces incorporate sensory-responsive features, such as tunable lighting and acoustic zoning that eases the transition from public areas to clinical spaces.
University of Oregon Tykeson Child Behavioral Health Building project details
Location: Portland, Ore.
Target completion date: 2029
Owner: University of Oregon
Total building area: 54,000 sq. ft.
Total construction cost: Not disclosed
Cost/sq. ft.: Not disclosed
Architect: ZGF Architects
Evidence-based and trauma-informed design specialist: Mindful Insights Consulting
Interior designer: ZGF Architects
General contractor: Skanska
Engineer: KPFF (structural), PAE (mechanical and electrical), Capital Engineering & Consulting LLC (civil), ABD Engineering & Design (acoustical), Affiliated Engineers (AV/IT)
Landscape architect: Walker Macy
Demolition and accessibility compliance architect: LEEKA
Project details are provided by the design team and are not vetted by Healthcare Design.
