Portland Building, Portland

The Portland Building is a 15-storey government office completed in 1982 and designed by Michael Graves. Its bold colours, small windows, and classical details made it an early and controversial example of Postmodern architecture. Some praised its expressive design, while others criticised its unusual proportions, dark interior, and inexpensive materials.

Above the entrance is Portlandia, a hammered-copper sculpture by Raymond Kaskey, installed in 1985. Based on the female figure in the municipal seal, she holds a trident while reaching towards visitors below. The kneeling statue is about 36 feet high and would measure roughly 50 feet if standing. Kaskey retained copyright over its image, which has limited its reproduction on commercial souvenirs despite its large scale and prominent position.

The building developed serious water leaks and problems with its exterior soon after opening. A major reconstruction completed in 2020 added seismic reinforcement, new mechanical systems, clearer windows, improved public areas, and a weather-resistant outer skin that reproduces Graves’s original colours and forms. Underground parking was replaced with bicycle and commuter facilities.