Edith Green-Wendell Wyatt Federal Building

A groundbreaking example of sustainable design, this project revitalized the Edith Green–Wendell Wyatt Federal Building into a high-performance, energy-efficient workspace that prioritizes occupant well-being and environmental stewardship.

The Edith Green-Wendell Wyatt Federal Building, an 18-story, 512,474-square-foot office tower in downtown Portland, Oregon, underwent a landmark modernization completed in 2013. This transformative project, funded by the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, exemplifies the U.S. General Services Administration's commitment to sustainable design and energy efficiency, establishing a national model for high-performance federal buildings.

Originally constructed in 1974, the EGWW building faced challenges with outdated systems and inefficiencies. The redesign addressed these issues comprehensively, achieving LEED Platinum certification and setting benchmarks in energy and water conservation. The building now uses 60-65% less energy than typical office buildings and reduces potable water use by over 65%, thanks to innovative systems such as rainwater harvesting for irrigation and plumbing.

Key design features included a custom vertical shading system optimized for each façade’s solar exposure, reducing heat gain while maximizing natural light. Radiant panel heating and cooling, combined with advanced HVAC systems, significantly reduced operational carbon emissions. A striking solar canopy generates 5% of the building’s energy needs and collects over 2 million gallons of water annually. The project also prioritized biophilic design principles, integrating green roofs, terraces, and water features to enhance occupant well-being and connect them with nature.

While working at SERA, Propel Studio founders Tuan Vu and Nick Mira were instrumental in the project's success. From Schematic Design through Construction, they contributed to every phase, ensuring that design and performance goals were realized in detail. Tuan Vu worked closely with the design team to refine the building envelope, focusing on passive solar strategies. He contributed to the 3D envelope model, which informed the integration of shading systems that optimized solar orientation, enhancing energy efficiency while maintaining the building’s aesthetic appeal.

Nick Mira led the Building Information Modeling (BIM) coordination, streamlining collaboration between architectural, engineering, and landscape disciplines. His management of the 3D site model harmonized the building’s urban context with its innovative features.

The modernization of the EGWW building earned prestigious accolades, including the national AIA COTE Top Ten and Top Ten Plus Awards. It demonstrates how outdated structures can be reimagined into sustainable, future-ready spaces that balance functionality, aesthetics, and environmental stewardship.

Tuan and Nick’s leadership in this groundbreaking project highlights Propel Studio’s ability to deliver complex, high-performance designs that exceed sustainability goals and foster long-term value for clients. This experience reflects their dedication to creating innovative solutions that prioritize occupant wellness and environmental responsibility.

For more information about our experience and process as architect on public buildings, please visit this page.