From Vacant to Vibrant
Located in Wilsonville, Oregon, this project involved a complete gut and renovation of a vacant warehouse to create new headquarters for Interior Exterior Specialists (IES). Constructing their own space, IES wanted to show off the range of what they can build.
Before: Street Facade
Drab colors and a deteriorating awning made this street-side entry unwelcoming and dated.
After: Street Facade
A fresh coat of paint, new metal cladding, and removal of the awning made this street-side entry feel like a proper handshake to the neighborhood. A new glazing strategy, using punched openings instead of storefront, helped eliminate thermal bridging, increasing energy efficiency and thermal comfort.
Before: Stair
Worn out vinyl treads, dirty carpet, and code non-compliant handrails made this stair feel like an afterthought.
After: Stair
New wood treads and stringers, code-compliant blackened metal handrails and guardrails, and durable vinyl flooring bring warmth and modern flair to the renewed entry atrium.
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Before: Main Entry
Unclear parking, no accessible entrance, and more drab colors made this primary entry feel hostile and neglected.
After: Main Entry
The new entry features a spacious deck, glazed entry doors, and a glazed garage door opening up to the break room. A new metal awning shelters the entries while a new lift provides accessibly entry. The restriped parking lot includes accessible parking stalls and designated sidewalks for pedestrian safety. New second floor windows bring daylight and warmth to second floor offices.
Before: Main Entry
While this was the main entry for the building, it felt like an industrial afterthought. Yet, the old garage door openings provided an opportunity for new glazed entryway systems that could wash the interiors with daylight.
After: Main Entry
Big glazed garage doors bring the outside in. Simple blackened metal railings, guardrails, awnings, and door frames bring modern flair to the previously dated facade. Board and batten detailing on the deck base add textural interest.
Indoor/Outdoor Gathering
A glazed garage door connects the break room to the deck, allowing for gatherings to flow seamlessly from indoors to outdoors. A live edge on the wood countertop showcases craft and regional flavor.
Wood accents, interior glazing, LED lighting, and PVC-free carpet make the previously decrepit office interiors feel warm and inviting.
Conference Room
Large screens, built-in storage, and lots of interior glazing form a perfect “war room” to strategize construction and celebrate milestones.
Interior Stair
The previously industrial metal stair was replaced with a modern wood stair. Wood accents and acoustic panels bring a pop of color to the office interior.
“The Bull Pen”
Open offices sometimes become loud, chaotic environments where it can be difficult to focus. To manage sound and promote calm focus, this open office features acoustic baffles, pvc-free carpeting, LED lighting, acoustic ceiling panels, and a simple pony wall to organize the space. Open offices flank the “bull pen” to facilitate collaboration between colleagues.
Contractor as Client
This project provided the unique opportunities to collaborate closely with the contractor on the buildout of their headquarters. Similar to a design-build project, design ideas flowed seamlessly between contractor and architect. The end result was a transformative renovation with well-crafted details and creative flair.
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