Front view of the Safford House at dusk, with the lights on inside, showcasing the building's brick exterior and historic charm in Portland, Maine.

Our Work/Commercial/93 High Street

93 High Street

Open office workspace with arched windows, green plants, and wood desks. Employees collaborate in the bright, airy, and inviting space at Woodhull's new office.

A woman standing at a dark wood island in a spacious office, with historic wood-framed windows and open shelving filled with design supplies at Woodhull's workspace.

Black and white photo of a Woodhull meeting room with glass panels and wood trim, showing a collaborative meeting space with a round table and engaged employees.

Office kitchen with white cabinetry, stainless cooktop, and a dining table with fresh fruit, offering a light-filled, functional space for Woodhull employees.

Closeup of light wood shelves in the office kitchen with off-white plates, bowls, and glass cups, showcasing a clean, modern design with natural elements.

Interior seating area with modern furniture and restored wood paneling, featuring plants, a black marble table, and a beige sofa at Woodhull's renovated office.

Hallway in the Safford House office with polished stone floors, modern wood staircase, and dark wood doors with oval tops, creating an elegant and welcoming atmosphere.

View from an oval window on the second floor of the Safford House, looking down at two people reviewing architectural designs at a rectangular table.

Project Details

DESIGN TEAM

Woodhull:

Patrick Boothe

Anna Pajulo

Caleb Johnson

Stacey Woodworth

David Morris

BUILD TEAM

Woodhull:

Mike Weston

Nate Barrett

Michael Cleary

Flemming Overgaard

Curt Carlisle

MILLWORK TEAM

Woodhull:

Scott Stuart

Ben Bailey

Jordan Gehman

Timm LaCasse

Chris Roy

Nicky Sontag

Thomas Strayhorn

Jennifer Wilkey

LOCATION

Portland, Maine

PHOTOGRAPHY

Trent Bell

SERVICES

Architecture, Construction, Millwork

Space for growth

Having outgrown the previous office space, Woodhull needed a new home that reflected the company’s growth, team needs, and aspirations. In late 2022, the opportunity arose to purchase the Safford House in Portland, a stately Italianate mansion built in 1858. The former home of a wealthy shipping merchant, this historic landmark, with its rich architectural details and prominent location on High Street, presented both a challenge and an inspiration.

A balancing act

The renovation process presented unique challenges. The building, while stunning, required significant updates. The team faced unexpected hurdles, including a failed mechanical system on closing day, and had to adapt the budget accordingly.

Throughout the project, there was a healthy tension between the pragmatic needs of the business and the vision for a truly inspiring workspace. This tension ultimately proved beneficial, pushing us to create a space that exceeded expectations.

Original character with functionality

Respecting the building’s inherent character, Woodhull began a sensitive renovation, blending modern functionality with historic preservation. Original features, such as the grand staircase, eight-foot arched doors, and intricate wainscoting, were meticulously restored. Modern interventions, including solid wood arched doors, a unique walnut staircase, and custom-built tables integrated with tech, meet contemporary needs and design while integrating with the original woodwork of the upper levels. The built-in walnut millwork, a sleek coffee bar, and Woodhull-designed furniture maintain the space’s historical warmth while adding modern design moments.

Embracing the future

The renovation also addressed critical infrastructure upgrades while maximizing natural light and enhancing the building’s inherent warmth. The result is a unique and inviting space that fosters creativity and collaboration. Woodhull’s new office is a testament to the power of thoughtful design, honoring the past while embracing the future.