Stearns, Inc. is pleased to announce the completion of Cascade Station Corporate Office; a 97,200 square-foot building within a 120-acre development and infrastructure improvement site located at the “gateway” to the Portland International Airport. Near the MAX Light Rail line, this 4-story, steel framed office building is surrounded by new hotels, restaurants and retail developments and is an ideal location for office tenants. The project received LEED Gold Certification for its environmental and energy efficient design. Cascade Station is emerging as one of the premier Class A commercial office structures in the City of Portland.

Designed by FFA Architects, Cascade Station features an open floor plan with large windows for optimal natural light. Aesthetically pleasing and functional, sunshades were widely utilized on the exterior to decrease the amount of heat transferred inside the building.

Working with general contractor, Skanska USA, Stearns managed the entire structural and ornamental steel package. From procurement to detailing and fabrication to erection, the steel components were erected in only 12 weeks. Stearns also partnered with VLMK Engineers to provide design assistance and to refine the steel connections for constructability, along with shop-framing the canopies for minimal field handling.

The project’s proximity to the airport and jet landing space presented a unique challenge. FAA crane regulations required a maximum crane height of 104 feet. The crane needed to reach the top of the steel for this 4 story building while maintaining load and reach capacity to keep to the erection schedule. Stearns resolved the challenge through coordination and careful planning of the crane and hoisting equipment. Jim Sarka, Project Manager, R.F. Stearns, Inc. stated “I enjoyed working with Skanska’s experienced team of professionals. Their team atmosphere and cooperation throughout the entire design/construction process was a major key to the project’s success.”

Cascade Station received the following award and rating:

Awards

• 2010 Top Projects, Private Buildings, $5M - $15M by DJC Magazine

Ratings

• U.S. Green Building Council LEED in 2008; achievement level: Gold