Protecting the Symbol of the City: Preserving Portlandia
笔辞谤迟濒补苍诲颈补鈥檚 construction created a unique set of challenges for the design team. As a raised copper sculpture, each inch of the metal sheets used were hammered dozens of times until incredibly thin. These sheets are riveted together and supported internally by a wooden frame.
“In actuality, she鈥檚 very fragile,” said Principal and architect Erica Ceder, LEED AP BD+C, Assoc. DBIA.
This means that any plans to move her from her platform, three stories above the ground, had the potential to destabilize the sculpture and cause irreversible damage. A strategy was developed to protect Portlandia where she stands: protective scaffolding was erected. Portlandia was removed from the public eye, and danger, for over a year. In 2019, on the project鈥檚 completion, the scaffolding was removed to reveal Portlandia, not only unscathed, but revitalized by conservators.
The Portland Building Reconstructed
Though the design and appearance of the Portland Building continues to drive debate, Portlanders seem to like their Portlandia. Special attention was paid to the care and preservation of the sculpture during the reconstruction process.
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