Restore Oregon is set to showcase three remarkable midcentury modern residences in the Portland area this coming Saturday, September 27.
The event, titled ‘Oregon Made: Experience Northwest Regional Modernism,’ invites architecture enthusiasts to enjoy a self-paced tour of these unique homes.
Admission is priced at $45 and can be purchased at restoreoregon.org.
Proceeds from the tour will directly support Restore Oregon, a nonprofit dedicated to preserving historic places of all architectural styles statewide.
Among the featured homes, two are designed by influential architects known for their early contributions to Pacific Northwest modernism—Pietro Belluschi and Van Evera Bailey.
The third residence, a striking multilevel hillside structure, was designed by an unknown architect, adding an air of mystery to the tour.
Midcentury modern architecture is revered for its ability to dissolve barriers between indoor and outdoor spaces.
The open interiors reflect a shift in American living standards and sensibilities.
This architectural style, particularly notable in Oregon, emerged from a deep appreciation for the region’s natural environment.
Architects of the Northwest Regional style highlighted the benefits of using local materials, such as fir and cedar wood, stone from the Cascade Mountains, and river rock.
Nicole Possert, executive director of Restore Oregon, explained how the homes on the tour exemplify this ethos: ‘Walls of windows frame scenic views, and interior wood and stone create a harmonious bond with nature.’
Extended roof lines are another signature feature of Northwest modernism, designed to offer protection from the Pacific Northwest’s rain, snow, and sun.
Each home on the tour narrates the story of architects who balanced technological advancements with the allure of the surrounding environment.
As modernism evolves into a historic style, Ruth Oregon asserts that it is critical to protect it just as one would with Victorian or Craftsman-style homes.
The nonprofit’s advocacy seeks to inform and inspire about the importance of preserving midcentury modern architecture while simultaneously finding sustainable ways to inhabit these spaces today.
For over ten years, Restore Oregon has organized tours, lectures, and events highlighting the interplay between modern architecture and the Northwest Regional style.
Here’s a glimpse at the homes featured on the 2025 Restore Oregon Modern Home Tour:
1948 Burkes-Belluschi House:
This iconic residence was designed by Pietro Belluschi as his personal home and marks his last architectural work.
Completed in 1948, the Burkes-Belluschi House in Portland’s West Hills is celebrated as an outstanding example of merging International and Northwest Regional styles.
Commissioned by DeWitt Clinton (‘D.C.’) Burkes and his wife Genevieve, the house’s construction was delayed due to World War II material rationing, ultimately culminating in 1948.
Utilizing local materials, particularly intricate woven wood ceilings and a stunning Mount Adams stone fireplace wall, the house exemplifies harmony with nature through its extensive use of floor-to-ceiling windows that capture views of the Portland skyline and Mount Hood.
1954 Glassman House:
Constructed in 1954, the Glassman House features multilevel architecture configured to blend seamlessly with the hillside landscape.
Designed by an unknown architect for a local radio DJ, the home is characterized by floor-to-ceiling windows that create the sensation of being suspended among the trees.
While the kitchen has seen an update, many original fixtures remain, along with a midcentury bar found in the basement.
1962 Pfahl House:
The Al and Brenda Pfahl House in West Linn is a well-preserved time capsule, having housed only one family since its completion 63 years ago.
The home’s design, crafted by architect Van Evera Bailey, emphasizes energy efficiency, natural light, and panoramic views.
Bailey took careful notes of the summer solstice light when determining window placements within the dwelling.
With features such as full-height sliding windows and clerestory windows along the bedroom walls, the design promotes ventilation and natural lighting.
The original color scheme of light green was intended to blur the line between inside and out, although later updates introduced strawberry pink walls and purple carpet.
The home also showcases Bailey’s innovative use of exposed structural ceilings, constructed from laminated Douglas fir boards.
Praised for their livability, Bailey’s homes often prioritize site placement and views, fostering communal gathering spaces.
Additionally, the terrace surrounding the Pfahl House was designed by midcentury landscape architect Barbara Fealy, who was closely associated with many Northwest Regional Modernism architects.
If you’re interested in joining the tour, visit restoreoregon.org to purchase your tickets.
The event runs from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday, September 27, with general admission priced at $45 (or $40 if purchased before September 3).
This is an opportunity to explore Oregon’s modern architectural heritage while supporting preservation efforts throughout the state.
image source from：oregonlive
