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Turning a blighted structure into a modern and distinctive building, Pacific Northwest Publishing's new 6th and Willamette location meets both the office and production needs of a growing publishing company. Stripping the existing 18,000 square feet of space to its structural core, the renovation added new mechanical and electrical systems, as well as a creative re-use of existing conditions.
The family-owned company produces educational videos and print materials. To address the diverse needs of their business, the major program elements were split between the two stories. Warehouse and video production functions were placed on the ground floor, while the second floor houses offices, graphic design, and conference rooms along with unfinished spaces that allow for further growth.
Expansive windows let in light and views of the surrounding downtown, and a bold material palette creates a work environment that is both practical and stimulating. The interior utilizes an angled plywood-clad wall to guide circulation as well as define space, house storage and provide display nooks.
Upstairs, the second floor was redesigned with an overall goal of cultivating teamwork and creativity. A large collaboration room includes a wall of glass sliding doors, providing not only a unique dry-erase writing surface, but also the choice of a private or open setting. The building code required an additional stairwell, which was designed outside of the building footprint. At several places around the enclosed stairway, landings were included to provide space for people to talk and share ideas.
2fORM attempted to keep the original metal brise-soleil, but due to its deteriorating condition, ended up replacing the outdated structure with a new sun screen made of corrugated, perforated metal and steel-framed boxes. Vines are being grown on supports on the side of the building adjacent to the public sidewalk in an attempt to reduce the possibility of vandalism. The distinctive entry stairwell is clad in exterior laminate panels.
2fORM staff was led by Principal Architect Richard Shugar AIA, LEED AP and Project Manager Gabriel Greiner AIA, LEED AP. Production staff included Peter Utsey, AIA, LEED GA, Trenton Jacobs AIA, LEED AP, and Sarah Dooley IIDA.
This project was built by McKenzie Commercial Construction Company, of Eugene, Oregon. Schirmer Satre Group designed the landscape plan, and Solarc Engineering performed Mechanical Engineering.