Developer Brad Fowler contacted Portland Built several weeks ago, and we’ve had a great dialogue about his project. Folwer’s firm, Fowler Andrews, has been acquiring properties on the inner east side for the last 6 years or so. Brad claims he isn’t, “plowing new ground on Alberta” (his words) but I’d say the finished product is well worth a look.

One of the things I like about this development is the scale and scope. It’s a modest-sized building for the area, and they’ve done a nice job of making the retail buildings at a scale that works for the budding entrepreneur.

Here’s an excerpt from the project website:

We began to develop Alberta Mercantile at the start of the recession with one strategy in mind:  create small, efficient spaces targeted to the local entrepreneur.   Most business are cash-strapped when they’re just getting started or expanding and often can’t divert working capital for tenant improvements.

Each of the three Alberta-fronted retail units within the existing structure are designed to be “turn-key” spaces that require no improvements on behalf of the tenant.  These units feature an ADA-compliant restroom with utility sink, separate 3-phase electrical panel, and distribution of all systems including HVAC.  These units are 900 square feet, with an additional 375 square feet of mezzanine space.  Each unit features 22’ ceiling heights with glazed storefront roll-up doors that open directly on to Alberta Street.

Fowler Andrews has done something even more interesting in that they are pairing the livable areas with a highly visible retail option. I could see someone renting the retail space along with one of the adjoining residential areas. It’s a nice convergence, and the rental option (as opposed to the traditional purchase arrangement) creates a lower-cost alternative. Here are some images from the “living” portion of the project (entrance on 14th)

Fowler’s got some great talent along on this project. The architecture firm Vallaster and Corl Architects has some impressive work in their portfolio (and this project is certaily a great addition!). Bremick construction, the general contractor, really put on a nice fit and finish. Some of you may know them from their work on restoring the Ladd Carriage House (here’s a link to a great time lapse video as they moved the WHOLE HOUSE across the city)

We’ve put together an image gallery, but if you have some time, take a spin over to NE Alberta and look at this great project. It’s the kind of revitalization that fosters much-needed economic development in Portland.

Related posts:

1. Live/Work Update: Kitchen Installation
2. Tiling and Landscaping at the Live/Work Project

I’ve followed Brian’s site for some time and appreciate the volume of work and his ceaseless effort at putting Portland architecture on the map. Writing fresh content on a weekly (and sometimes daily) basis takes a tremendous amount of work. Even though the site runs on a sponsorship model, I would hazard a guess that it’s more of a labor of love than a big-time money maker.

So, spend a few moments at Brian’s blog, Portland Architecture. It’s well worth the visit.

Photo Credit: Brian Libby.

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In the meantime, here’s a quick “before” photo. The wall to the right and left has been cut away to expose the seriously old “insulation” that was eventually replaced (I think it has an R-value something akin to shredded newspaper).

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