Visitors Information Center (Portland, Oregon)

The Visitors Information Center, also known as the Rose Building, is a historic building located on Naito Parkway in downtown Portland, Oregon, United States. Built in 1948, it is noted as a prominent product of its architect John Yeon. It is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Visitors Information Center
Portland Historic Landmark[1]
Photograph of Visitors Information Center
View from the approximate alignment of the former Harbor Drive
Locator map
Locator map
Location of the Visitors Information Center in Portland
Location1020 SW Naito Parkway
Portland, Oregon
Coordinates45°30′54″N 122°40′24″W / 45.514969°N 122.673253°W / 45.514969; -122.673253
Built1948
ArchitectJohn Yeon[a]
Architectural styleInternational style, with Northwest Regional style influences
NRHP reference No.10000801
Added to NRHPSeptember 24, 2010[3]

In this, his only major non-residential commission, Yeon combined the principles of the International style with strong influences of the Northwest Regional style, which he pioneered. Northwest Regional elements include the naturally-inspired color scheme, the use of plywood walls and louvered ventilation panels, and concern for the site's unique views.[2]

The building has served as a chamber of commerce office and information center, city offices, a restaurant, and the headquarters of the Portland Rose Festival. Originally situated adjacent to a freeway in a highly developed waterfront district, the Visitors Information Center was subsequently retained when Tom McCall Waterfront Park was developed around it. It now stands within the park.[2]

See also

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Notes

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  1. ^ John Yeon lacked a formal architectural education and consequently was unlicensed as an architect. Thus a separate professional was needed to stamp Yeon's plans. The architect of record for the Visitors Information Center was the firm of Wick, Hilgers, and Scott.[2]

References

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  1. ^ Portland Historic Landmarks Commission (July 2010), Historic Landmarks -- Portland, Oregon (XLS), retrieved November 13, 2013.
  2. ^ a b c Minor, Kristen (February 20, 2010), National Register of Historic Places Registration Form: Visitors Information Center (PDF), Washington: National Park Service
  3. ^ National Park Service (October 1, 2010). "Weekly List of Actions Taken on Properties: 9/20/10 through 9/24/10". Retrieved October 1, 2010.
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