Architecture Photo of Harder Mechanical

© Quanta Collectiv

Architecture Photo of Harder Mechanical

© Quanta Collectiv

Architecture Photo of Harder Mechanical

© Quanta Collectiv

Architecture Photo of Harder Mechanical

© Quanta Collectiv

Architecture Photo of Harder Mechanical

© Quanta Collectiv

Architecture Photo of Harder Mechanical

© Quanta Collectiv

Architecture Photo of Harder Mechanical

© Quanta Collectiv

Architecture Photo of Harder Mechanical

© Quanta Collectiv

 

Harder Mechanical

Reinvention and Rediscovery

A fifth-generation Portland family business, Harder Mechanical needed a new, modern headquarters to last them for another 80 years. Because reinvention tends to be part of their business—they gain expertise in the newest processes, be it mill work or high-tech manufacturing, and periodically transform themselves along the way—they were looking explicitly for an innovative showcase office. After learning who they are, how they view their work, and what they needed in a collaborative working session, our design encompasses a beautiful, durable brick building using renewable cross-laminated timber (CLT). The new Harder Mechanical building will last for decades, aligning with and improving the Elliott neighborhood in a way that’s both timeless and exceedingly modern.

...
Portland, Oregon
  • 2 stories
  • 25,000 sq. ft.
  • Completed in 2021
  • AWARD WINNER

2022 Engineering News Record Northwest Award of Merit - Office/Retail/Mixed-Use 2022 TopProject Finalist, Office - New Construction category

PROGRAM

Workplace Interiors , Corporate

PROJECT CONTACT

Architecture: Michael Great

Interiors: Kim Gonzales

Brand: Cody Barnickel

officemsc@ankrommoisan.com


Architecture Story

A Blend of History and Innovation in Mass Timber

Architecture Photo of Harder Mechanical

© Quanta Collectiv

Architecture Photo of Harder Mechanical

© Quanta Collectiv

Architecture Photo of Harder Mechanical

© Quanta Collectiv

Architecture Photo of Harder Mechanical

© Quanta Collectiv

Architecture Photo of Harder Mechanical

© Quanta Collectiv

Architecture Photo of Harder Mechanical

© Quanta Collectiv

Architecture Photo of Harder Mechanical

© Quanta Collectiv

Architecture Photo of Harder Mechanical

© Quanta Collectiv

Situated on Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard in Portland’s historic Elliott neighborhood, the new Harder Mechanical building integrates early 20th-century charm with a forward-thinking design. The dark brick facade pays homage to the neighborhood's historical context while introducing a contemporary aesthetic. The building's simple massing reveals intricate detailing, offsets, and shadow lines as you approach. Contrasting white panels are carved into the brick, exposing large expanses of glazing that highlight various interior spaces. This harmonious blend of traditional materials and modern design positions the Harder Mechanical building as a bridge between the past and future of MLK Boulevard. Inside, the design showcases an exposed Cross Laminated Timber (CLT) structural system, providing environmental benefits, biophilic advantages for occupants, and construction schedule and cost savings. As a mechanical and plumbing subcontractor, Harder Mechanical was integral to the design process. Their commitment to innovation and efficiency led to the adoption of an integrated project delivery method, enabling close collaboration with the General Contractor, Swinerton, and trade partners. This approach ensured that design and construction goals were achieved using cutting-edge methods. To emphasize Harder's craftsmanship, the design features exposed ceilings, structures, and mechanical systems, showcasing the company’s expertise and dedication to quality.

...

Interior Story

Where Work Gets Done

The Interior Design for Harder Mechanical Contractor's new Headquarters focuses on daylighting, efficient space planning and greater opportunity of chance employee interactions. Upon walking into this space, one is greeted immediately with a reception desk along with a robust metal and concrete staircase that leads to the center of the second level and opens up into a two-story space with skylights. The Interior design emphasizes the modern concept of open floor plans and combines it with the more traditional concept of private offices and conference rooms around the perimeter of the building. This design can only be successful in maintaining good daylighting throughout, with the addition of skylights throughout, the central atrium and interior glazing this natural light can reach into the center of the building for the benefit of all employees. The industrial aesthetic of the interior, balances raw with refined elements, warm with cool color pallets and exposed yet precise details throughout the interior construction. This speaks to Harder Mechanical Contractor's persistence, success and longevity over decades of success within their industry and dare we say a timeless design for years to come.

...

Brand Story

Cutting-Edge, Yet Classic

Architecture Photo of Harder Mechanical

© Quanta Collectiv

Architecture Photo of Harder Mechanical

© Casey Braunger

Architecture Photo of Harder Mechanical

© Casey Braunger

Architecture Photo of Harder Mechanical

© Quanta Collectiv

Architecture Photo of Harder Mechanical

© Quanta Collectiv

Harder Mechanical, located in Portland’s historic Elliott neighborhood, with its brick buildings and traditional 20th Century homes, has a five-generation legacy to uphold. They’ve passed down the business for eight decades, and they plan to continue. Our brand design for the company centers on this idea of longevity, history, and simple, classic aesthetics. While they are cutting edge in their approach to construction, they’re old-fashioned in their commitment to quality, durable materials. Every decade, they reinvent how they work. They once did millwork. Today, they use high-tech process manufacturing across a range of materials. To honor Harder’s constant reinvention and lineage, we incorporate historic photos that showcase their long-standing tradition of expert craftsmanship. Outside, subtle yet robust, an illuminated metal sign lights with the name “Harder.” Our interior and exterior graphic expressions and materials are strong and traditionally masculine; our entire design language speaks to longevity, built with durable, timeless materials for people who know what they’re doing and where they’re going.

...

Back