It started as a soap factory. Some 60+ years later, this commercial, concrete cube sat unkempt, rotting, and in desperate need of repair. Yet it had a spirit to it, a space well suited for work. So when frequent collaborator Beebe Skidmore Architects invited us to work on this adaptive reuse project—for their own firm— we excitedly agreed, but we had our work cut out for us.

Rather than compete with the existing structure, the approach was respectful of the building’s historical context, while renovating for safety and function as a modern-day office. What was once utility-based construction would become the design inspiration and serve as a reflection of the firm’s architectural approach. That meant preserving and highlighting original features like Douglas Fir rafters with shiplap decking. The team opted to replicate the original design and replace the rot from a former roof failure with reclaimed fir from the same era and recurbed the skylights with the material, as well, instead of using new material, concealing, and sheetrocking. Lighting conduit was carefully routed above the roof deck to limit visual clutter on the ceiling, reinforcing the minimalist, utilitarian approach.

Below, large carriage doors and mirrors applied to the plumbing core maintain visual openness. Despite alignment issues, pour-in-place floor boxes were accurately sited within a new heated floor slab and installed insulated perimeter walls faced with homasote to double as pin-up space.

The project, which took home an AIA Oregon Citation Award, reflects high execution of simple exposed details within an imperfect structure. The result is a beautiful, industrial space that both respects its historic roots and reflects the firm’s vision and work.