July, 2008 -  When the commercial real estate services firm, Elliott Associates, Inc., recently relocated to an outdated existing building at 901 NE Glisan St., the importance of maintaining a balance between sustainable and artistic commercial renovation was at the top of the list.  The former Copeland Lumber Building lay vacant for over seven years before renovation began.  The building was renovated reusing existing materials and sustainable natural products to help blend the barrier between the structure itself and the natural arboretum surrounding it.  This attention to detail in the effort to go green had even the city of Portland taking notice when the building was distinguished with the City of Portland Sustainable Development G-Rated Certification for sustainable commercial renovation.
The impressive open floor plan at Elliott Associates, Inc. was achieved by reusing glass constructed from the former occupant to allow daylight views to the first floor, reusing existing skylights, and replacing wall systems with light diffusing and weather insulating characteristics to save on every costs.  Sustainable flooring was used throughout, such as bamboo and marmoluem, and original hardwood floors were reused and relocated when possible.  Even the landscaping has reflected this idea of sustainability.  A rainwater collection system was installed on the roof of the new entry to divert rainwater into an existing dry creekbed, creating a natural pool and adding to the Northwest and Japanese design principles applied on the exterior of the building and grounds.
Elliott Associates, Inc. has further committed to doing their part to go green and encouraged employees to bike to work by offering showers and indoor bike parking to accommodate bike commuters and leading other recycling efforts under the spearhead of its organized Green Committee.