Francis Marion Stokes Fourplex

The Francis Marion Stokes Fourplex is a Mediterranean Revival apartment building in the Northwest District of Portland, Oregon. The facade consists of smooth stucco, with a porch-style entry showing Moorish influence and ceramic tiles adorning window frames, adding color to the two-story structure.

The building was constructed in 1926 as the Kuhn Apartments, commissioned by Esther Kuhn and designed by architect Francis Marion Stokes. It was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1996, recognizing the architect's role in shaping Portland's residential history.

The building reflects how Moorish design elements influenced residential construction in 1920s Portland, with ceramic tiles framing windows. These details mark a period when Mediterranean forms became popular in the Pacific Northwest, as architects sought to adapt southern European aesthetics to the rainy climate.

The building is located on a residential stretch of Northwest Pettygrove Street, easily reachable on foot from the surrounding neighborhood. Visitors can view the exterior from the street, as it remains a private residence with occupied units.

Architect Francis Marion Stokes lived in Unit 2 of this building from 1929 until 1975, spending nearly five decades residing in one of his own designs. His long tenure makes the fourplex a rare case where a designer personally experienced the durability of his own work.

Location: Portland

Architects: Francis Marion Stokes

Architectural style: Mediterranean Revival architecture

Address: 2253 Northwest Pettygrove Street

GPS coordinates: 45.53283,-122.69789

Latest update: December 20, 2025 02:44