Balfour–Guthrie Building, historic building in Portland, Oregon, USA
The Balfour-Guthrie Building is a two-story commercial structure at the corner of Park and Oak Street in Portland, built in 1913 as one of the first West Coast buildings constructed with concrete. Architect Morris Whitehouse's design features a sturdy, practical construction with a sandstone facade, exposed concrete pillars showing wood grain patterns, and original interior flooring of terrazzo and marble.
The building was constructed in 1913 during a year of major business growth in Portland, created in response to safety concerns raised by a fire in San Francisco. The use of concrete as the primary structural material was an advanced choice for the West Coast at that time, making it a milestone in construction methods of the era.
The building takes its name from the Balfour-Guthrie Company, which originally used it as office space and represented Portland's commercial growth in the early 20th century. Visitors today can observe the exposed concrete pillars with wood grain patterns and the sandstone facade, which reflect the craftsmanship of that era.
The building sits at a busy corner in downtown Portland and is easily accessible on foot. The area offers ample parking options and public transportation connections, with the neighborhood featuring modern businesses and restaurants that encourage walking and exploring.
The building underwent an extensive renovation that blended modern sustainability with historic authenticity, aiming for LEED Silver certification while preserving original elements. This effort demonstrates how older structures can be thoughtfully updated while retaining their original substance and character.
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