History
Ecotrust, a conservation organization based in Portland (www.ecotrust.org) purchased the warehouse in 1998 with the generous help of Jean Vollum. The Jean Vollum Natural Capital Center, as it is formally called, has become a location for vibrant engagement on issues of sustainability. The Conference Center and Terrace were conceived of as community gather spaces--places for the transformative interaction--as well as a source of sustaining revenue for the non-profit Ecotrust. The Natural Capital Center was the nation's first historic building to be certified LEED Gold. In 2008, Ecotrust formalized a partnership with the American Institute of Architecture (AIA) to manage rentals at the Center for Architecture on Friday evenings and weekends. The Center for Architecture building was initially a horse stable and is believed to be one of the oldest buildings still standing in the Pearl District. The Center for Architecture is the first AIA chapter office to be certified LEED Platinum.
Specialties
Originally constructed as a warehouse in 1895, Ecotrust's home in Portland's Pearl District is a landmark green building that has hosted over 500 events a year and 5 million visitors since our doors opened in 2001. When you host your event at the Natural Capital Center, you support our nonprofit work to build a new economy that holds people and nature at its heart. Ecotrust serves Portland with two unique green event venues within The Natural Capital Center. Our conference center is the ideal space to hatch your next big idea, build new partnerships, explore what matters to you, dance, feast, and celebrate any occasion, small or momentous. Our rooftop terrace is a magical place to host open-air brunches, cocktail parties, rehearsal dinners, weddings, barbecues, and more. Mark a special occasion by bringing it four stories into the air.