Edith Green-Wendell Wyatt Federal Building

OBJECTIVE / BACKGROUND

The General Services Administration appointed SERA Architects with the task of modernizing this 18-story 1970’s era Federal Building located in Portland, Oregon. The project was funded by the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, and it was essential that it meet the stringent requirements of the Energy Independence and Security Act. Every part of the building was to be dismantled, reimagined, and reconstructed with sustainability and conservation being the primary drivers.

STRATEGIES & SERVICES

SERA Architects served as Architect of Record on this project awarded to Howard S. Wright Construction. PRC was retained by SERA to provide building envelope consulting services during design and construction. PRC services included technical review and oversight of material and system selection, specification, and site-specific detailing for roofing and related flashings, below-grade waterproofing systems for site walls and below-grade spaces, and waterproofing required to convert the basement-located indoor gun range into a rainwater harvesting tank. During construction, PRC performed submittal reviews, assisted with responses to contractor questions, continued design assistance as scopes evolved, and performed periodic site inspections and detailed documentation of work in progress.

OUTCOMES

This project proved to be a prime example of repurposing and sustainable design. Only a structural skeleton remained once demolition activities were completed, and this offered the opportunity to apply creative thinking of how spaces and systems could be redesigned and fulfilled as a model for energy efficient renovation. PRC is proud to be a part of this successful award-winning transformation.

Thank you to photographer, ©Nic Lehoux. www.niclehoux.com