MS in Real Estate students had the opportunity to tour Byline, gaining a firsthand look at top-of-the-line Class A apartments in Portland. Experiences like this allow students to connect what they study in the classroom, development, design, finance, and market positioning, with how those concepts come to life in a real project. Walking through the property, students experienced the rooftop terrace with 360° views of Mt. Hood, the Willamette River, and Providence Park, along with a wellness spa featuring a sauna, cold plunge, and steam room, plus a rooftop hot tub. Seeing these amenities in person provided insight into how developers create value and compete at the top of the Portland market while establishing a strong sense of place.
“Being an MSRE student has given me access to tours and industry connections that would not be possible otherwise. Seeing real-world projects and reflecting on what I am learning in the classroom is incredibly valuable.” — Lane Smith, MSRE ‘26
Byline is the final phase of the Press Blocks master plan, a joint development by Security Properties and Urban Renaissance Group. Located on the former site of the Oregonian’s printing facility in Goose Hollow, the project draws directly from its history. The “press and paper” design concept shapes the architecture itself, with the buildings reflecting the silhouette of a mechanical printing press and a sheet of newspaper—an intentional and distinctive detail that sets the development apart. For students, this kind of project reinforces how branding, storytelling, and historical context play a role in development decisions discussed in class.
Next door is Canvas, the first phase of Press Blocks, a creative office building designed by GBD Architects and home to Hoka’s headquarters. As part of the tour, students were able to walk through portions of the office space, offering additional perspective on mixed-use development and tenant experience—topics they explore throughout the program. The two buildings share a courtyard and underground parking garage, and the site’s proximity to Providence Park highlights its role in the transformation of Goose Hollow into one of Portland’s most dynamic neighborhoods.
“Tours like this bring the MSRE program to life. Instead of only discussing concepts in a classroom, our students get to walk through real buildings, talk with the people who develop, finance and manage them, and see firsthand how decisions shape communities. They also get to extend their professional networks in the commercial real estate community. That kind of direct exposure and experiential learning is at the heart of our program!” — Julia Freybote, MSRE Academic Director
Watch a recap video of the Byline Tour.
Learn more about the MS in Real Estate program and how hands-on experiences like this prepare students for careers in the industry.