The National Register-listed Fairmount Apartments, originally known as the Hotel Fairmount, were constructed in 1905, directly across the street from the main gate of the Lewis and Clark Exposition. Meant to supply lodging for fairgoers visiting Portland from around the globe, this building is one of the only Exposition structures still standing. And like most […]
It’s that time of year again—time for Restore Oregon’s Pets ’n Preservation Photo Contest!
Highly regarded—in our opinion—as one of Oregon’s premier pet photo contests, the Restore Oregon Pets ’n Preservation photo contest raises awareness of our most loved places around the state. For the last two years, animals from all across the state have entered our contest in hopes of winning the coveted cover of the Pets ’n […]
Restore Oregon’s 2020 Pets ‘n Preservation Calendar
To create our first ever calendar, we asked preservationists from around the state to submit photos of their furry besties in old Oregon places. With submissions flooding in featuring different resource types from different time perious, we awarded a cash prize to our cover pup: Simba at the John Mock House, North Portland (1894). Gift […]
State Legislation Aimed at Offsetting Seismic Retrofit Costs
With mandatory upgrades proposed, will it be enough to avoid demolition of historic buildings on a massive scale? Seismic retrofitting for Unreinforced Masonry Buildings (URMs) is mandated in earthquake-prone cities from San Francisco to Tokyo. In Oregon, it is not – but that may soon change. With the dire predictions of the Cascadia quake […]
Living in a Portland Historic District: FAQ
Restore Oregon has released an updated frequently asked questions (FAQ) handout to address recent statewide rules changes affecting the state’s historic places. This informational overview focuses on new National Register Historic Districts in Portland which are designated after January 2017. It highlights several questions including the following: Can properties in new historic districts be demolished? […]
Internal Conversions: A Sensitive Solution
The City of Portland’s Bureau of Planning and Sustainability recently conducted a study to assess the architectural and structural feasibility of internally converting historic homes into two or more dwelling units. Internal conversion is when a home that has previously been used for a single family is divided into multiple apartment units or studios allowing […]
Local Artist Portrays Endangered Places
Restore Oregon is thrilled to announce a partnership with local artist and conservator Kate Powell. Over the course of the last several months, Kate has created stunning watercolor paintings of several of Oregon’s Most Endangered Places. These evocative and colorful pieces will be auctioned at the Restoration Celebration on Friday, November 11 at the Sentinel […]
Guide to Requesting Delay Extensions for Proposed Residential Demolitions
In April 2015, the City of Portland adopted new rules governing demolitions in the city’s single-family residential zones. These rules allow the public to request an additional delay period for the purpose of saving significant houses from demolition. Because the process can be confusing, a citizen guide has been created to provide step-by-step instructions for individuals and organizations […]
Restore Oregon Wins Precedent-Setting Bull Run Court Case
The historic Bull Run Power Plant was saved today following a Land Use Board of Appeals ruling that will enable the adaptive reuse of rural historic resources across Oregon for years to come. Restore Oregon invested significant time and resources in filing a brief and arguing before the court in support of the preservation-friendly land […]