Good times at PDX
2018-2021
BEING THE MODEL SHOP
At the start of 2018 the Superfab Model Shop began providing dedicated modeling services to ZGF as they undertook the critical concepting and schematic work on the terminal expansion. Across a total of 60 scopes, we produced both standalone models and larger collaborations with the firm’s in-house model shop. Given the long and established history between the shops, through occasional high-pressure stages we even embedded one or two Superfab model builders directly in the ZGF shop to bolster their in-house efforts in the most fluid manner possible.
Over the course of these three years, we produced everything from study models to presentation models, making physical the schemes-of-the-moment for the sake of studying the play of light, structural aesthetics, construction strategies, and simply making ideas visible. We produced a host of models visualizing concepts for specific elements such as facades and the soon-to-be iconic Y-columns, as well as significant portions of the project’s remarkably large ‘master model’, and of course, a great handful of versions of the already-famous roof.
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2020-2022
BRINGING IDEAS TO FULL SCALE
As the design focus moved into the interiors, we brought our custom production and manufacturing expertise to the table to help ZGF, the Hoffman Skanska Joint Venture (HSJV) and the Port of Portland vet and refine the most significant and challenging elements in the expansive interior scheme. In this phase Superfab produced approximately 30 full-scale mockups, ranging from spatial massing mockups of ticketing areas to dimensionally precise formal studies of the curvilinear ‘urban furniture’ elements, to full true-to-life-construction of an approximate 400sf section of the 16’ tall concession structures.
All along the way, we provided informed consultation on matters of constructability and detailing in the way that only experienced (and inspired) builders can. We also contributed production cost estimates for various concepts and elements to both the ZGF design team and the HSJV pre-construction team to help guide the design strategy and decision making process toward truly viable solutions. Knowing that even the most inspired and noble design intents are often lost in translation, we took great pride in helping make many of the visions for PDX’s ‘indoor forest’ actually come to life.
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2023-2025
BUILDING FOR KEEPS
Today, with construction of the PDXnext interiors in full swing, we are now manufacturing three signature scopes to stand in the airport for generations to come.
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CONCESSION GRILLES
Having first produced a version of these slat grilles when we constructed the full scale Concession structure mockup in 2021-22, Superfab is now manufacturing modular ceiling grille assemblies for all 18 of the expansion’s marketplace structures.
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SEAMWALL
We first worked on the freestanding wood lattice partition wall in 2020, fabricating a full scale true-to-life mockup and engineering a reliably produceable, aesthetically clean, high-precision joinery detail in the process. Today we are manufacturing a total of four Seamwall configurations, ranging from 8’ to 12’ tall and 60’ to 100’ long.
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TSA SCREENING ROOMS
The Screening Rooms are freestanding solid-walled wood structures built in the round, and skinned with Corian. Being highly detailed on both the interior and exterior, and of an undeniably uncommon construction, the four rooms are a perfect fit for Superfab and what we do best - working with architects and designers to build things they often can’t get others to build.
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We’d encourage you to learn more about this remarkable project by starting here. After that, ZGF’s presentation of their work is also quite excellent. For our own right, we’ll be sharing much more about the processes, stories and inspirations that have been born of this work in the months and years to come. If you’d like to know more in the meantime, don’t hesitate to contact us.