March 7, 2013

We are delighted to share that Portland’s Halprin Open Space Sequence has been placed on the National Register of Historical Places.

The Open Space Sequence was born from architect Lawrence Halprin's vision for community in the heart of Portland. His innovative design links fountains, plazas, parks, and other open spaces with the bustle of the city.

In his own words, Halprin explained that "the space is choreographed for movement with nodes for quiet & contemplation, action & inaction, hard & soft, yin & yang."

The Sequence links some of Portland's most well-known downtown Portland Parks & Recreation spaces - the Ira Keller Fountain, the Lovejoy Fountain, and Pettygrove Park.

“They are spaces designed not to simply look at or to sit in, but to wade into, to dance upon, to become part of the work itself” Nick says about the beautiful landscape.

The National Register of Historic Places has 88,000 properties on their list - only 200 are noted due to landscape architecture. The Open Space Sequence is a wonderful addition to the list because it “was not inspired by architecture, but by nature,” notes Director Abbaté.  

The Sequence has been maintained through a wonderful public-private partnership between Halprin Landscape Conservancy, surrounding property owners, and the City of Portland.

We are so honored and proud to have this spectacular sequence in our city!

Portland Open Space Sequence in downtown Portland joins National Register of Historic Places

Sara Hottman in The Oregonian