The project is a renovation of the physical Portland headquarters of an internet-based contemporary furniture company. Hive Modern <hivemodern.com> is known nationally for its web presence of carefully selected modern furniture paired with evocative abstract natural imagery. The intent of the renovation of the dilapidated existing storefront was to align the richness and clarity of Hive Modern's digital brand with the physical experience of visiting the Portland showroom.

The design focuses on opening up the existing façade with large 12’ low-iron glass panes and a single custom 12’ bronze door. A custom pattern for the door, inspired by the Hive identity, mimics the folds found in nature’s hives. The flow of the folds is captured symbolically and simply through a 2D pattern that appears three-dimensional in light. An iterative design process involving a number of key early mock-ups was utilized to test cutting techniques, material performance, and the structural capacity. The final design was fabricated using water-jet-cut naval bronze panels carefully brazed together mid-span to achieve the 12’ height. Close collaboration with fabricators, door manufacturer, and finishers resulted in a physical experience that is materially tactile, evocative, and functional.