Metropolitan Group
Retaining architectural texture in a modern office
The Metropolitan Group project is an interior tenant improvement that balances respecting the historic features of the renowned Balfour-Guthrie Building with the need to update the space for the modern office. The Balfour-Guthrie Building, built in 1913, was designed by Architect Morris Whitehouse and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. It is one of the first reinforced concrete structures on the west coast and retaining the character of the structure was imperative to the client and paramount to the final design.
Client
Metropolitan Group
Location
Portland, OR
Size
19,300 sf
Size
2020
Achievements
2021 DJC Top Projects Second Place for a Tenant Improvement
Metropolitan Group’s interior reconfiguration of this building is designed with the resident creative office tenant in mind. The spaces now include enclosed and open office areas, conference rooms, a breakroom, a full kitchen, and modernized lobby and reception areas.
Modern materials are concertedly interwoven with the building’s original industrial materials and aesthetic. The entrance lobby flooring had been covered during a previous remodel. The client and design team took a risk in removing these layers and discovered that some original travertine marble and tile were still in good condition. The floor was thoughtfully infilled to preserve the floor’s original character.
To honor one of Metropolitan Group’s core efforts of promoting sustainability wherever possible, the team reused existing features, materials, and equipment, retrofit existing furnishings, sourced sustainably produced and as-local-as-possible materials to reduce carbon footprint, established recycle and reuse for demolition and disposal, sourced no-toxin or low-toxin paint and finishes, and used high quality, durable materials so the building and materials are long-lasting.
Acknowledgements
SEA Team
Brian Mares
Rebecca Littman-Smith
Blythe Woodward-Sacho
Susan Balogh
Megan Schmitz
Project Team
Todd Hess Building Co.
Catena
Point Monitor
Photography Credits
Cheryl McIntosh