Shur Architects served as the consulting architect and project managers on a recent project for Microsoft. The company sought to remodel its only Portland-area facility, a Lincoln Center office building which houses marketing, sales and training staff.

The new design represents a reversal of the company’s own trend of isolated, temporary offices, and a recognition of the need for facilities that create opportunities for collaboration and group conferencing. Shur Associates employed brightly colored geometric designs and creative lighting techniques to revamp a conference room, break room, reception area, gallery area, and storage area.

The 3500-square-foot remodel increased accommodations for employees by 25% and updated furniture and interior design, in addition to improving the communication technology that allows the facility to maintain a direct link to Microsoft headquarters. The upgrade brings Microsoft’s physical environs up to par with its reputation as a high-tech software giant.

Microsoft executives appreciate the multi-purpose rooms, which help cut expenses by increasing the types of work that can be done on-site. Now the company can host large meetings and customer events.  Lori Colby, the company’s District Office Manager, called the remodel a smooth project that “started and finished on time—no delays.”

Project Management responsibilities included: coordination of over-all design, review of project plans from concept through code compliance review with building department and secured building permit for project. Additional responsibilities included: weekly construction meetings with owner, general contractors, subcontractors and project architect, Administered construction scheduling, change orders, punch list, and substantial completion.