Docomomo US/Oregon is currently keeping an eye on and advocating for a number of modernist buildings in the Portland and Salem area under threat. Read more about each one below and find out how you can participate in the chapter's efforts to save these modernist sites.

Portland Building

Docomom US/Oregon is currently tracking the proposed exterior design options for the Portland Building Reconstruction project. The building is listed in the National Register of Historic Places. Design alterations to the facade could impact the exterior character defining features, possibly resulting in the de-listing of the building.

What can you do? Email City of Portland Senior Planner Hillary Adam.

 

Salem Civic Center

The chapter is currently evaluating options to document Salem Oregon’s brutalist Civic Center.

Pacwest Center

The chapter advocated for a careful approach to a planned remodel of the PacWest Center, designed by Hugh Stubbins & Associates/SOM. At the time of its completion the architects’ attention to detail was described by an AIA jury as being “so thorough and finely executed as to be uncanny”.

When the remodel went in front of the Design Commission members argued for the retention of character defining features in the building, while allowing the building to evolve to meet today’s needs. Our testimony played a major influence on the advice given by the Commission.

The project is currently on hold, but we will continue to monitor it. Read the chapter's letter to the Design Commission HERE.

Ahavath Achim

Docomomo US/Oregon also advocated for the preservation of the John Storrs designed Ahavath Achim in South Portland, which is threatened by demolition. The chapter offered the congregation suggestions on how they might be able to use the density transfer provision of the Portland Zoning Code as an alternative to outright sale of the temple, which they no longer use on a regular basis.

What can you do? Stay posted by follow the chapter's social media channels for any upcoming developments.

 

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