The Brana, meaning gateway, conceived as a defining landmark at the transition between the NewBo and Czech Village neighborhoods in Cedar Rapids at the 16th Avenue Bridge. The project introduces a human‑scaled, multi‑unit building that recalls the character and presence of early‑1900s urban housing, while performing as a contemporary model for mixed‑use living. The three‑story building accommodates fifty residential units alongside more than 6,400 square feet of commercial space, including a rooftop restaurant or café tenant space, designed to capture river, downtown, and neighborhood views. 

At ground level, a series of micro‑commercial spaces support small business startups and incubation, sharing common amenities to reduce overhead and encourage collaboration. Designed during the height of the post‑COVID 'work‑from‑home' era, The Brana intentionally bridges living and working, allowing residents to separate home life from work while remaining connected to community. Conceptualized to have a mass‑timber structure and high‑performance envelope, the L‑shaped building is set back to create an elevated front porch condition, embracing connection back to the street, concealing parking, and establishing The Brana as a welcoming gateway between the two historic neighborhoods.