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2002 Home Tour

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2230 NE Thompson St.
A Prairie Style Home Designed by John V. Bennes

While Prairie Style architecture is most associated with Chicago and Frank Lloyd Wright, it found its way around the country, including some wonderful examples in Portland, of which this is one.  Its architect, John Virginius Bennes, carried the style with him from his training in Chicago -- ultimately leaving his mark on Oregon's architecture in both fine residences and other buildings ranging from the rococo Hollywood Theater to much of the Oregon State University campus.

When Bennes designed this home for Inham and Dora Smith in 1911, it was one of a growing number of ever grander houses being built in the neighborhood.  It remains a fine Irvington landmark. Its current owners of 14 years have patiently upgraded and maintained the home, carefully preserving its historic character while making it their own unique space.  Furnishings range from the Craftsman Style of the living room to the Art Deco of the dining room to the retro-mid-20th Century look of the solarium off the thoroughly modern kitchen.