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Expensify by ZGF Architects

Historical touches meet modern amenities in Expensify’s Portland-based space designed by ZGF Architects.

In keeping with Expensify’s mantra of “choosing your own adventure,” ZGF created a pristine environment in the National Landmark First National Bank Building for employees to collaborate and thrive in their own way, without traditional workplace constraints like assigned seating.

Expensify didn’t just want a place for their employees to work; they wanted to create an environment where their employees wanted to spend their time. Thus, ZGF designed multiple meeting rooms, traditional and non-traditional work areas, treehouse-style crow’s nest perches, and suspended chaise loungers to give employees options and comfort.

Many design choices such as the embellished skylit atrium and art deco bank vault details built on the existing building’s features instead of masking them. This commitment to maintaining the building’s integrity was a necessity, seeing as Expensify is leasing the historic property, but still wanted to make it feel like “home.”

ZGF noted, “Keeping in mind Expensify does not own the building, design interventions had to speak not only to the enduring grandeur of the existing interiors but also the realities of a finite lease term.”

Thanks to ZGF, Expensify’s Portland hub infuses 1920’s glam with contemporary materials and amenities such as an in-house speakeasy and coffeehouse.

“Expensify employees have fully embraced the new office, and on any given day can be seen moving from one space to another, with device tucked under arm and often with a dog or two in tow.”

Photography is by Garrett Rowland.

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