Nova
1615 SE 3rd Avenue • Portland, OR
One of the first large-scale mass timber buildings in Portland, Nova was ahead of the curve. Built to incorporate the graffiti-covered remnants of the old burned down Taylor Electric warehouse, this modern building is filled with light, art, and inspired businesses.
Project Overview
ASSET TYPE
Office
CONTRACTOR
Turner
ARCHITECT
Mackenzie & Potestio Studio
COMPLETION
2016
WEBSITE
SQUARE FEET
77,000
More than a Building
Nova is a place for people to work, but more importantly, it’s a place for people to connect. From the creative workspaces to the inspiring lobby, to the ground-level coffee shop, the design and detail throughout welcomes the neighborhood and tenants in and makes everyone feel right at home.
Beauty meets Business
We spend about one-third of our lives at work, so it’s really important for workspaces to be comfortable and uplifting. We designed Nova with high ceilings, exposed heavy timber construction, and oversized windows that provide fresh air, a lot of natural light, and a great view of downtown Portland. Along with a mix of creative agencies, architecture firms, and banks, Nova is also home to Killian Pacific’s Portland HQ.
From the Ashes
The Nova site was formerly home to the Taylor Electric warehouse, which was destroyed by a massive fire in 2006. During the years that the burnt-out walls sat vacant, they emerged as a notable destination for street artists. These walls and the remains of the Taylor Electric building served as an ad hoc canvas that attracted photographers, performers, and tourists from around the nation. Today, local and visiting artists continue to paint the walls, providing a truly dynamic gallery-like experience for everyone to enjoy.
Celebrating Street Art
These original graffitied walls still flank the west side of the property and we continue our long-term partnership with the Portland Street Art Alliance to celebrate and preserve the story of this unique icon in SE Portland’s evolving landscape.
A Place with a Pulse
We believe Portland’s Central Eastside Industrial District is experiencing a creative renaissance. Entrepreneurs, artists, and creative thinkers continue to set roots in this area, drawn to the palpable energy and authentic spirit. Over the years, Nova has become an important community gathering spot in the heart of the Central Eastside. Here we have hosted art and design events, concerts, block parties, fundraisers, food fests, and all kinds of get-togethers in our parking lot and surrounding areas. When an event is going on at Nova, everyone is welcome.
