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Visitors Information Center (Portland, Oregon) facts for kids

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Visitors Information Center
Photograph of Visitors Information Center
View from the approximate alignment of the former Harbor Drive
Locator map
Locator map
Location in Portland, Oregon
Location 1020 SW Naito Parkway
Portland, Oregon
Built 1948
Architect John Yeon
Architectural style International style, with Northwest Regional style influences
NRHP reference No. 10000801
Added to NRHP September 24, 2010

The Visitors Information Center, also known as the Rose Building, is a special historic building. It is located on Naito Parkway in downtown Portland, Oregon, United States. Built in 1948, it was designed by the famous architect John Yeon. This building is so important that it is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

About the Visitors Information Center

This building is a great example of its architect's work. It was the only major non-residential building that John Yeon designed. He was known for creating a new style of architecture.

Who Designed It?

The Visitors Information Center was designed by John Yeon. He was a very important architect from Oregon. Yeon was a pioneer of the Northwest Regional style of architecture. This style uses natural materials and fits in with the local landscape.

What Styles Does It Show?

The building combines two main styles of architecture. One is the International style. This style often features clean lines and simple shapes. The other is the Northwest Regional style, which John Yeon helped create.

The Northwest Regional style uses natural elements. For example, the building has colors inspired by nature. It also uses plywood walls and special louvered panels for air. The design also makes the most of the beautiful views around it.

What Was It Used For?

Over the years, the Visitors Information Center has had many different uses. It started as an office for the chamber of commerce. It also served as a place where people could get information. City offices were once located here too. At one point, it even housed a restaurant. The building was also the main office for the famous Portland Rose Festival.

Where Is It Now?

When it was first built, the Visitors Information Center was next to a busy road. This road was called Harbor Drive. It was in a very developed area near the waterfront. Later, a new park was built around it. This park is called Tom McCall Waterfront Park. The building was kept and now stands proudly within the park.

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