Portland, the biggest city in Oregon, is surrounded by mountains and coastlines. With warm summers and cool, rainy winters, it has the perfect climate for cultivating flowers, earning it the nickname “City of Roses.” Numerous locals and visitors frequently participate in various outdoor activities. In addition to its lovely surroundings, Portland’s economy is robust. It has multiple transportation options—east-west and north-south interstates, international airports, major marine shipping facilities, and both west coast intercontinental railroads—that are all assets from an economic standpoint. Additionally, the city has a relatively low energy cost. Numerous business owners established their operations in the city due to its convenience and prime location.
These business owners sought the expertise of the best tenant improvement contractors in Portland, Oregon to fulfill their needs for office renovation and fit-outs. These businesses have consistently proven their commitment to high-caliber work. They have remarkable credentials and deliver top-notch customer service to the businesses they work for.
R&H Construction
2019 NW Wilson St., Portland, OR 97209
Since 1979, construction company R&H Construction has provided the Pacific Northwest with its major renovations, tenant improvements, remodeling, addition, and ground-up construction needs. The firm is known to develop complex structures that are durable. Its team, led by John Ward as CEO and Kraig O’Connor as president, is dedicated to providing the highest quality service and efficiently completing time-sensitive projects. Many publications and associations have noticed the firm’s edge. Portland Business Journal, Daily Journal of Commerce (DJC) Oregon, and The Architect’s Newspaper are among the publications that have featured their work. In addition, its awards include the Sustainability Award from ARE Design Awards, the Regional Excellence Winner from Wood Design Awards, and the Top Project: Mixed-Use from the Daily Journal of Commerce.
The R&H team improved this 45,000-square-foot space for the Tillamook Creamery to serve as its new Portland headquarters. It features an open floor workspace equipped with multiple collaborative workstations, a research and development lab with a walk-in cooler, a feature kitchen, several conference rooms, and a rooftop deck. This remarkable space is furnished with structural glulams, architectural steel phone booths, and original artwork with creamery elements.
Fortis Construction Inc.
1705 SW Taylor St. Ste. 200, Portland, OR 97205
Fortis Construction Inc. specializes in general contracting, preconstruction, value analysis, constructability, construction management, feasibility, financial modeling, and building information management. It has served the U.S., Europe, and Asia for almost two decades and has won multiple awards. This includes a People’s Choice Award from the American Institute of Architects (AIA), a National Design-Build Award, and three Platinum Awards from ConstructSecure. These distinctions were brought by the firm’s outstanding team, supervised by CEO Jim Kilpatrick. Their expertise in delivering a safe and sustainable space contributed to the firm’s reputation. They are also passionate about outreach and diversity by partnering with women and minority-owned subcontractors and local advocacy groups.
The firm has built an extensive portfolio since its inception in 2003. It primarily highlights projects for the healthcare, education, data center, and corporate sector. It also has several builds from the biotechnology, high-tech, government, and retail sectors. This tenant improvement for Apex Clearing is one of the firm’s notable works in the financial market. The Fortis team collaborated with SERA Architects to refurbish this 10,500-square-foot space into a high-performance, open office fit for the innovative company.
Andersen Construction
6712 N. Cutter Circle, Portland, OR 97217
Anderson Construction’s goal is to be the builder of choice for construction and design services of various residential, industrial, and commercial properties. It was founded in 1950 and has expanded to accommodate the entire Pacific Northwest Region, with offices in Portland, Oregon; Seattle, Washington; Eugene, Oregon; and Boise, Idaho. David Anderson heads the firm as Chairman of the Board, Travis Baker as president and COO, and Joel Anderson as President. They collectively have over 91 years of experience in the industry, proving their in-depth knowledge and skills. The firm estimates its success by exceeding client expectations and achieving project goals. The team’s thoroughness and quality service have earned the firm recognition for producing one of the 20 Most Transformative Projects in Portland twice and a Generational Development Award.
The firm rehabilitated the Leland James Building, which was initially constructed in 1973. The 120,000-square-foot structure was transformed into an innovative, spacious office space with Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Gold certification. The project comprises a new penthouse office suite with a big outdoor deck and eco-roof, a new brick exterior, and expansive windows. The team also did a comprehensive seismic upgrade and installed new mechanical, electrical, and plumbing (MEP) systems.
Balfour Beatty
1455 NW Irving St. Unit 400, Portland, OR 97209
Balfour Beatty is the oldest firm on this list, and it’s also an established name in the Portland commercial construction industry. Since its foundation in 1885, it has grown to be one of the nation’s largest building contractors serving both private and public sectors of over 21 states. The firm is a subsidiary company of London-based Balfour Beatty PLC. Eric Stenman is the president of the whole U.S. branch, while Troy Dickson is the president of the Northwestern region. They both have led their teams to develop unique and innovative structures that have enhanced and connected communities. In 2021 alone, the firm has produced over 37 projects worth more than $20 million and built over 8 million square footage.
The firm has created a myriad of outstanding projects. Some of those have won distinctions, including the Excellence in Construction Eagle Award from the Associated Builders and Contractors (ABC) Carolinas, Best Specialty Construction Project from the Engineering News-Record (ENR) MidAtlantic, and Best Highway/Heavy Project over $5 million from the Associated General Contractors (AGC) Carolinas. The Wacom Headquarters is one of the firm’s notable works in the corporate sector. The team focused on transforming the 55,000-square-foot headquarters to motivate employees. Its design highlights a contemporary yet comfortable space with high-end finishings, contrasting basic elements, and rays of color and light.
Bremik Construction
1026 SE Stark St., Portland, OR 97214
Sustainability and smart building practices are some of Bremik Construction’s main objectives. Also included in its goals is to be the best contractor in Oregon. With a team composed of LEED accredited professionals and talented building associates, the firm was able to build the first and largest LEED Gold Historic Renovation in the country. Founder and president Brent Parry also prioritizes security. He implements a strict, robust safety program with numerous training activities and protocols. This applies not only to the worksites but is embedded in every project the team works on as well. Testament to this is their Seismic Upgrade Citation Award from the AIA Oregon. They were also given the People’s Choice Award in Tenant Improvement by DJC’s Top Project and Transformer Award from Portland Business Journal.
Among the firm’s impressive works is the Mirador Office for Sentinel Development. It includes a two-floor build-out in one of the buildings at the Historic Bank Block. New circulation stairs were installed between the two levels, and various finishing was done to numerous open office areas and conference rooms, along with several individual offices, a spacious break room, and a large gaming space.
Hammer & Hand Construction
1020 SE Harrison St., Portland, OR 97214
Hammer & Hand Construction has over 27 years of experience in the industry. It was initially founded by Sam Hagerman and Daniel Thomas as a remodeling firm focused on historic Portland homes. Years later, it expanded to commercial construction and now offers services to the city of Seattle as well. Its team upholds five tenets: craft, building science, collaboration, rigorous project management, and empowered employees. As mentioned, they value teamwork, thus partnering with some of the best architects and designers in the Northwestern region to develop inspiring spaces.
The firm is renowned for transforming spaces, with some being recognized for excellence. It was given the Outstanding Remodel Achievement Award in the commercial interior and commercial specialty category. Another example of the firm’s expertise in complex building is the Instrument office renovation. Partnering with Holst Architecture, the team was able to develop Instrument’s new headquarters despite the limited exterior access. It is located in a four-story tower with three levels centered around a 40-foot ceiling atrium. The suite’s focal point is a remarkable floating staircase that leads to a central open area. All the materials and equipment used were brought inside the building through a 3′ x 9′ window located one story above.
Lorentz Bruun Construction
3611 SE 20th Ave. #300, Portland, OR 97202
Since 1946, Lorentz Bruun Construction has maintained its tradition of the highest quality of construction services to the Pacific Northwest. Its mission is to focus on the client’s best interest and to continue providing them with unmatched construction expertise. President Mark Bruun manages the third-generation family-owned firm. He brings more than four decades of experience in the industry, guiding the team. Bruun understands that the team is one of the firm’s assets. So he fosters an environment that encourages employees to be creative and driven in achieving personal and professional goals. This pushed the team to strive harder. They have consistently brought recognition to the firm, including being listed as one of the Best General Contractors by DJC Oregon. It has also been part of the Top 100 Best Companies to Work for in Oregon and Top 100 Best Green Workplace in Oregon by the Oregon Business.
DJC Oregon has previously named the firm third place for the Top Projects in Tenant Improvement. Another remarkable tenant improvement project it has completed is the remodeling of the famed Koin Tower. The lobby and upper elevator of the structure were redesigned entirely to help the building’s new owners draw in new tenants. Its original pink marble was replaced with sophisticated glass walls, stainless steel, and Arktura screen material. The team also constructed new facilities, such as the cafe and bike storage, and improved the fitness room. Get to know more about Lorentz Bruun Construction and their projects here: https://bruunconstruction.com/.
Colas Construction
1419 N.W. 14th Ave., Portland, OR 97209
Colas Construction was founded in 1997 by Herman Colas after dealing with an incompetent private contractor. Herman wanted to provide the Portland Metropolitan Area with high-quality construction services focusing on ground-up and renovation projects. Its remarkable team, led by president Andrew Colas, is driven by the initiative to positively transform communities. Sustainability is also one of its guiding principles, backed up by three pillars: environmental, economic, and social. This led to the firm’s reputation as one of Oregon’s Most Admired Companies for three years. Portland Business Journal, Architectural Record, and The Skanner News also recognized the firm’s expertise and featured it.
The Colas team did an extensive refurbishment to the ENGIN Creative headquarters. The old office space was demolished to make way for the new 7,500-square-foot suite. Refurbishing includes updating the electrical equipment and installing new fixtures and fittings for the offices.
Hoffman Construction Company
805 SW Broadway #2100, Portland, OR 97205
Hoffman Construction Company has played a vital role in Portland’s economic development. It was behind the construction of several well-known structures in the city, including the Heathman Hotel, the Portland Art Museum, and the Public Service Building. With over a century of being in the industry, the firm has proven itself to be a driving force. It has contributed significantly to the growth and development of the Northwestern construction industry. President and CEO Dave Drinkward manages the firm and ensures that the team delivers its promises and achieves only the best. They continuously strive to set new industry standards. These efforts were commended by the Seattle Times, Healthcare Design Magazine, and Architectural Magazine.
Hoffman has developed numerous monumental projects. More recent ones include updating Seattle’s iconic Space Needle and the expansion of Portland’s charming Japanese Garden. Also included in the firm’s outstanding works is ZGF Architects’ Headquarters renovation. The Hoffman team enhanced the architectural firm’s five-floor office suite into an eco-friendly, modernized space. The USGBC recognized the structure’s sustainability and awarded it with the LEED-NC Platinum certification for the tower and LEED-CI accreditation for the office suite itself.
