After a lengthy search for a new location to house the firm’s growing team, SUM found a diamond in the rough on SE 12th and Pine, sited in the heart of SE Portland (important for the firm’s local roots) on a major North - South connecting street.  A low-rise midcentury office building, the existing condition reflects years of neglect, but under the patina of the years, SUM found great promise.  The firm’s redesign keeps true to the original character of the building, enhancing the best characteristics while introducing a few modern moves such as a folded metal canopy and attractive charred sougi-ban siding in place of aging wood panels.  Perimeter landscaping and a large corner window round out the scheme, activating the corner and providing an opportunity to showcase the building’s interior design and activity within, which was previously hidden to passers-by.

location
Portland, OR