In 2015 PNCA's new Arlene and Harold Schnitzer Center for Art and Design will become one of the most transformative building projects in the history of the city of Portland. Generally, we don't cover many social events but this project is special. In fact, PORT was the first in the media to see the potential for the project, not just for the school but the city... So when PNCA threw a pre-buildout tour, we thought it was time to share a little more of it with the world.

With Portland's own "Starchitect" Brad Cloepfil on board for the design (see details here) this becomes a watershed philanthropic moment for the city.
Photography by Sarah Henderson of sirenapictures.com, for PORT.

The 511 Building first opened as a Post Office in 1918 and was promised to PNCA by the GSA in 2008 (soon the US Government will turn it over for renovation). Its notably lavish construction was funded under the infamous 1893 Tarsney Act and designed by architect Lewis P. Hobart. In particular this fantastic hallway is historically protected and Cloepfil's updates will be in the more spartan portions of the building giving the building a sedimentation of architectural layers that art students should find stimulating. Nice to see such a great old building see some new life. Recycling is the Portland way after all.

An artist's rendering of this North Park Block renaissance.

Touring some of the more utilitarian rooms.

Since it was a Federal building the 511 has a high eagle per square inch ratio.

The building needs a lot of TLC, hence the reason the US Government is giving it away to a school that will make necessary upgrades.

Jean Stoll (L), Virginia Willard (R)

Raina Lawler and Sarah Smith from Nossa Familia Coffee (which will be in the library facilities) speak with PNCA President, Tom Manley.

PNCA's Board Chairman, Ann Edlen, and fellow Board member, Tony Belluschi.

PNCA President, Tom Manley.

Architect, Brad Cloepfil, from the big screen.