Restore Oregon Modernism preservation program will open doors to iconic midcentury modern dwellings such as the late architect Joachim Grube’s private residence in April, followed over the year by a tour of builder Robert Rummer’s atrium-centered houses as well as other educational events, presentations and parties.
Although many old buildings have been demolished over time, “it is inspiring to know that people love midcentury modern homes enough to save them,” said Nicole Possert, Restore Oregon executive director.
Buildings constructed before 1974 are considered historic and are part of the statewide nonprofit organization’s mission to preserve them and help owners repurpose them to benefit the community.
One of Restore Oregon Modernism’s events will be held in the renovated 1962 Postal Employees Credit Union, designed in the sleek International style in Southeast Portland.
On May 13, Restore Oregon Modernism will have a tour of midcentury modern houses in Southwest Portland modeled after prolific developer Joseph Eichler’s Case Study-inspired homes in California and built by Robert Rummer, now 95.
“Rummers,” with walls of glass that rise to vaulted ceilings and frame the outdoors, are more popular than ever and rarely on the market since many owners appreciate the flexible, single-level layouts and stay put, according to real estate professionals who specialize in modern dwellings.
Ticket holders ($50) can see four dwellings in the Bohmann Park tract, including the personal residence Rummer built for himself.
On Aug. 18, Restore Oregon Modernism will host a reception at the Oregon Historical Society’s Pietro Belluschi Architectural Resource Center in celebration of the late architect’s birthday and the new center (no ticket required).
And on Oct.14, Restore Oregon supporters can tour Living Room Realty’s headquarters in Southeast Portland, formerly the Postal Employees Credit Union and used for decades as an office for Multnomah County’s corrections department.
The thoughtful renovation of the 1962 building by Portland-based SUM Design Studio + Architecture received Restore Oregon’s 2021 DeMuro Award for Excellence in Historic Preservation.
The event will include a talk by Eric Hoffman of SUM and a presentation by historic building photographer Sally Painter. Tickets are $25.
Restore Oregon, a historic preservation organization founded in 1977, has been hosting tours of Oregon’s best modernism architecture and architects for 10 years.
This year, the organization launched Restore Oregon’s Modernist Society. Members donate $250 a year to support the nonprofit’s work saving historic places and are invited to private and public events.
Restore Oregon Modernism also raises funds for small nonprofits to save and repurpose historic places and spaces.
