Designed by Holst Architecture, As the first major commercial building in North Portland?s Williams District, One North represents a balanced focus on innovative design, community involvement, and sustainability. The project demanded a collaborative approach to define intent and context within the rapidly redeveloping neighborhood.
Photography: Andrew Pogue
One North was an opportunity to break the mold for standard office spaces. It challenged us to redefine sustainability beyond industry requirements. We designed long-term, durable solutions that adapt to the environment and future needs, achieving approximately 50 percent more energy efficient than code requires.

Using a mostly timber wood frame helped us achieve our rigorous sustainability goals and set a new standard for offices. Uniquely accentuated window frames jut out from the buildings to provide exterior shading and reduce the need for cooling. Photography: Andrew Pogue
Material selection was critical, and we emphasized low-carbon footprint techniques, such as wood cladding, cellulose insulation, and mineral wool insulation. We also locally sourced sustainably harvested cedar siding to make the solution easily replicable for ongoing sustainable office development.

The project demanded intense collaboration and trust across multiple developers and neighborhood groups. The goal was to progress the area?s social equity, and we helped achieve it by building smaller in favor of public courtyard space. The open, land...