Construction Spotlight: Triplett Wellman Contractors

Carving a Niche in the Pacific Northwest with Elevated Green Building Practices 

Photos: Bruce Damonte

With a reputation built on transparency, excellence, and sustainability, Triplett Wellman Contractors has become a distinguished name in the Pacific Northwest’s construction landscape. At the helm is President of Triplett Wellman, Nick Wellman. He and his dedicated team of about 60 employees boast an annual volume of roughly $100 million.  

Under Wellman’s guidance, the company not only constructs buildings but also pioneers a future where architecture and nature coalesce. From minimizing chemical use to integrating natural light and passive ventilation, Triplett Wellman’s commitment to environmental stewardship is evident in every facet of their work.

“Green building in our region has become so popular here that green building practices are required on every project we undertake,” he explains, highlighting the region’s progressive stance towards environmentally sound construction practices. 

Another key component of the company’s eco ethos is choice in building materials. “Wood plays a huge role in design with an emphasis on biophilia,” he notes, pointing out how the PNW’s logging history has naturally inclined its architecture towards wood as a primary material. 

Building with nature’s most versatile build material is not just about aesthetics but also about environmental and functional benefits. “Western Red Cedar, in particular, performs exceptionally well in our damp northwest environment, in most cases, even better than pressure-treated wood,” Wellman shares.

He doesn’t just draw these observations from his professional experience, but also his personal preference. In fact, he decided to use cedar siding for his own home’s exterior, underlining his trust in its quality and performance.

“Cedar is a product that we install and never have to worry about failure,” he explains, emphasizing the material’s durability and the added benefit of risk mitigation for his company. “When eco-minded design professionals or clients seek advice on building materials, Western Red Cedar is the first wood species that I think of.” 

Proof is in the Pride

A great example of Triplette Wellman’s superb craftsmanship is Oregon’s French International School. Designed by the award-winning architect firm, Hacker, this cedar-clad building serves as a point of pride for Wellman.  

“Almost everyone who has visited the site or reviewed the professional pictures gave us comments on how precise the woodwork is and how well it works with the neighboring forest,” he recalls. 

Inside, the cedar ceiling in the entryway is a signature moment of this design. It’s also a work of art unto itself.

“We have about 30 skilled carpenters – from furniture makers to lathe turners, to finish carpenters, these skilled individuals love a chance to showcase their skill set and precision,” Wellman says, highlighting his crew’s expertise and enthusiasm for woodcraft.

Future of Wood Design

As well as acknowledging wood’s rich history in his region, Wellman also embraces the evolution of wood design. In particular, he notes the influence of European building styles and the rising popularity of Cross-laminated Timber (CLT). He anticipates this trend will continue, propelled by projects like the Portland International Airport’s concourse remodel, which prominently features wood. 

“Wood will always have a firm presence in construction,” Wellman asserts, “and ways in which it is used will continue to evolve.”