Columbia Tech Center

PacTrust

Vancouver, Washington

2018

14,000 sq ft courtyard | 1,300 sq ft connector

To increase the marketability of this office park, PacTrust turned to TVA to activate a former parking lot running between two existing single-story buildings. TVA saw this as an opportunity to reclaim under-served space for new purposes, reduce heat islands with new plantings, and provide an extension of the adjacent workspace environments for all tenants.

The design solution was to create a glassy connector across one end of the parking lot that helped define the new outdoor courtyard boundaries. The connector also functioned as a bridge between the two buildings which gave more leasing options for larger tenants.

A large free-standing canopy of heavy timber allowed the exterior space to be used throughout the year, and a ribbon fireplace embedded into the cast-in-place concrete backdrop brings a modern focal element to the setting. BBQ areas and loose seating help create flexiblity for gatherings. A grass mound creates natural undulation to the landscape design providing visual interest and places for informal relaxation. The bike storage is concealed from views within the courtyard but allows for easy access by commuters.