BC Group
Avoiding Costly Missteps in Commercial Projects: How Consultants Keep Things on Track
Commercial real estate projects—whether offices, retail centers, apartments, or mixed-use expansions—often stumble due to missteps in planning, budgets, or execution. That’s where commercial development consultants become indispensable. Here’s how they help identify and navigate common pitfalls, especially through rigorous due diligence in construction. 1. Skipping Feasibility and Jumping In Too Fast The Pitfall: Developers sometimes…
Read MoreWhat is Trauma-informed Architecture and Why Does It Matter?
Trauma‑informed architecture applies design principles that actively support healing—prioritizing safety, autonomy, connection to nature, and dignity. Embedding these insights can transform how people experience built environments, especially in shelters, supportive housing, and community centers. Here’s a look at what makes it effective—and inspiring examples from Oregon and Washington state. Core Principles of Trauma‑Informed Architecture Safety…
Read MoreAffordable Housing Project Woodland Hearth Breaks Ground: Work Begins
In the heart of the Portland metro area, just north of the Tigard Triangle, the Woodland Hearth project is taking shape as an inspiring model of community-focused affordable housing. Community Partners for Affordable Housing (CPAH) is spearheading this initiative, with LRS Architects providing design expertise and Colas Construction serving as general contractor. Meeting the Need: Family-Centered…
Read MoreComparing LEED and WELL – What to Know
In 1995, the USGBC partnered with the Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC), spearheaded by NRDC scientist Rob Watson, to create the LEED green building rating system. LEED, which stands for Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design, was solidified, adopted by the USGBC, and launched with the help of the Federal Energy Management Program in August…
Read MoreOregon’s Commercial Construction Hotspots (2024–2025)
Oregon has experienced a surge in commercial construction activity in 2024 and 2025, with several cities seeing significant developments across office, retail, industrial, and hospitality sectors. Below we highlight the key cities driving this boom – noting project types, estimated values, and major projects – and then compare these to Oregon’s 10 largest cities by…
Read MoreWhy Adaptive Reuse Is Gaining Momentum in 2025
As of the third quarter of 2024, the U.S. office vacancy rate hit 20.1%—the highest it’s been in 30 years. Thanks to remote and hybrid work becoming the norm after COVID-19, many office buildings, especially older Class B and C spaces, are sitting empty. These underused spaces don’t just feel a little sad—they’re also dragging…
Read MoreOregon Sees Record-Breaking Business Growth in 2025 with 57.4% Increase in New Startups
Oregon is making headlines in 2025 for its booming entrepreneurial scene, experiencing an extraordinary 57.4% increase in new business growth according to federal data compiled by SimplifyLLC. This surge marks a significant transformation for the state, propelling it into the top five best states for entrepreneurs—a remarkable jump from its previous ranking of 28th. As…
Read MoreConsultant Benefits for Affordable Senior Housing Developers and Owners
A real estate development and construction management consultant company like BC Group can be a vital partner for affordable senior housing developers and owners, offering guidance from the initial planning stages through to project completion. Their expertise in overseeing budgets, timelines, quality standards, and compliance with senior housing requirements ensures that projects stay on track…
Read MoreConstruction Firms Increasingly Employing Cybersecurity
Construction firms are increasingly employing cybersecurity measures to protect against the rising threats of data breaches, ransomware, and other cyberattacks. As construction projects become more digitized and reliant on connected technologies, firms are realizing the need to secure their sensitive data, intellectual property, and operational systems. How does your firm measure up? If you need…
Read MoreThe Importance of Building All Types of Housing to Generate more Affordable Housing
Based on a recent article from Build Central, while new construction often focuses on high-end, Class A luxury apartments—primarily because of the high costs associated with land, labor, materials and rent—there is an increasing need for more affordable housing. According to The Washington Post, rents have risen by about 19% since 2019, making affordability a…
Read MoreMortenson Report Bodes Well for Portland
Construction costs in Portland saw a modest rise of 0.72% during the second quarter of 2024, according to a report from Mortenson. The outlook for nonresidential construction is cautiously optimistic, with industry indicators pointing toward stronger market conditions in the near future. Although the availability of skilled labor remains a challenge in many markets, stability…
Read MoreUnderstanding the Affordable Senior Housing Market
The affordable senior housing market is a critical segment of the real estate industry, addressing the needs of an aging population with limited financial resources. As the number of seniors continues to grow, so does the demand for affordable housing options that cater to their unique needs. Here’s a comprehensive overview of what you need…
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