First Tech Credit Union’s commitment to putting “People First” is evident in their new Oregon campus.

First Tech Credit Union’s commitment to putting “People First” is evident in their new Oregon campus, designed to enhance the well-being and satisfaction of their employees.

While mass timber is favored for its sustainability, strength, and aesthetic, its limited mass poses a sound control challenge, especially in exposed ceiling design. Acknowledging the crucial role of acoustical privacy in occupant satisfaction, First Tech integrated Tate’s raised access floor system to enhance the acoustic performance of the space, offering an optimal solution. 

In addition to its acoustic benefits, underfloor service distribution allows the design to discreetly house HVAC, electrical, and low-voltage systems, aligning with the design philosophy of connecting people with nature and creating equitable access to natural light. 

The implementation of underfloor air distribution enhances ventilation effectiveness and indoor air quality by delivering air at a low velocity directly into the occupied zone. This allows air to naturally ascend to a ceiling return, effectively removing contaminants and CO2 from occupants. This innovation not only contributes significantly to LEED certification but also underscores First Tech’s commitment to creating a healthy and sustainable work environment.

First Tech’s dedication to sustainability, reflected in achieving LEED Gold certification, aligns with Tate’s commitment to sustainable manufacturing. 

This collaborative effort contributed to making First Tech the largest glue-laminated timber (glulam) and CLT building completed in the United States at the time.