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(Henneberry Eddy Architects) |
A citizen’s group blessed with resources, determination and
clout hopes to convince the Portland City Council this summer that rebuilding
an impressive new Keller Auditorium and adding a public plaza are vital keys to
reinvigorating downtown Portland.
The push to rebuild the city’s largest performing arts venue
is headed by the Halprin Land Conservancy, a nonprofit organization that
strives to preserve four Halprin fountains in Portland – including the large
and famed Keller (nee Forecourt) Fountain that sits directly west of the
auditorium.
Under the conservancy’s plan, the auditorium would be
structurally braced and enhanced with a bold new lobby, more restrooms and
eating opportunities. In addition, S.W. Third
Avenue in front would be closed into a pedestrian plaza offering opportunities
for outdoor events more direct involvement with the big – and sometimes roaring
--fountain.
Scott Andrews, co-chair of the Halprin Conservancy, said the
new Keller would be “a world class performing arts destination” – a destination,
he said, “Portland desperately needs to get back on track.”
Presentations will be made to the City Council next month
about two other potential sites owned by Portland State University or within
Lloyd Center’s boundaries. Either the
PSU or Lloyd Center options could be constructed while tenants such as
Portland’s ballet and opera companies could continue operating at the Keller.
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View from above Keller Fountain (Henneberry Eddy Architects) |
Reconstructing the Keller would take 19 months, according to
the conservancy’s estimates. The
Keller’s estimated construction budget of approximately $250 million would be
less than building a new structure at one of the competing sites, and would be
more environmentally friendly, Andrews said.
The City Council is expected to select a site possibly by late June.
The Halprin Conservancy has invested several years of time
and money on the planning. It hosted a
design competition in 2018 that led the preferred new design with a bold,
cantilevered addition in front. The
conservancy also partnered with the city on a seismic study to determine the
best means of securing the building that dates to 1917. It was remodeled most recently in 1967-68.
So far, there appears to have been little discussion about
what would happen to the Keller Auditorium block if one of the other sites is
selected. The dramatic Keller Fountain
nearby was hailed as one of America’s greatest urban designs when it opened
when it opened in 1970.
From preservation perspective, it's important to recognize the context of the original fountain design. It was intended to be a grand front door to the (then) Civic Auditorium, and to be a delight for viewers at almost all hours of the day. It makes complete sense to keep the
auditorium coupled with the dramatic fountain that was designed specifically to sit on the block facing the auditorium's frontage. The Architectural Heritage Center’s
advocacy committee has unanimously endorsed the “new Keller” plan.
Sadly, the Portland Water Bureau and Bureau of Parks have
had difficulty repairing a pump that circulates water at the fountain. One hopes that the city can get it figured out. Combined with the "new" Keller, the fountain would be an absolute "must" for visitors to enjoy.
----Fred Leeson
Join Building on History’s email list by writing “add me” to
fredleeson@hotmail.com
The transformation of Keller Auditorium is simply remarkable, blending modern functionality with historical charm seamlessly. As someone passionate about architectural design, I truly appreciate the attention to detail evident in the renovation process. For projects like these, having professional architect drawings is crucial to ensure every aspect is meticulously planned and executed. https://arkiplan.co.uk/ offers a comprehensive range of architect drawings services, tailored to meet the unique needs of each project. From initial concept sketches to detailed blueprints, our team is dedicated to bringing your vision to life with precision and creativity.
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