SERA teamed on this integrated design-build project with Fortis Construction for the Oregon Military Department’s new Major General George White Headquarters. This new build will provide innovative workplace environments for both the Oregon Army National Guard and the Air National Guard, as well as supplemental components such as a large meeting space, conference rooms and a data center. The two-story building is comprised of two independent wings connected via a two-story glass lobby that serves as the main entry, pre-function and breakout space for the adjacent assembly spaces, and as a gathering space for ceremonies. The transparent lobby invites and encourages occupants to utilize both indoor and outdoor spaces for informal meetings and workspaces, while suites and open-office areas are arranged to optimize passive daylight strategies and views for all occupants. This place-based design concept connects the indoors with the outdoors for a more productive and appealing work environment while lowering operating costs for the end-users.
The lower, metal clad building masses in each wing represent the army ground forces; the sweeping roof element represents the air forces. Building materials convey strength and permanence, with an authentic expression of materials combined with key interjections of color from the warmth of native wood finishes. Intrinsically beautiful, and easy to maintain, elements of steel, glass, wood and concrete offer timeless and austere finishes that complement structural elements.
The Major General George White Headquarters is currently pursuing a LEED Gold certification with sustainable features such as maximized open space, restoration of habitat with native vegetation, stormwater quality control, roofs that minimize heat island effect, water-use reduction with low-flow fixtures, and use of regional materials such as certified wood. Indoor environmental quality is addressed by the use of low-emitting materials.
