2229 NE Thompson Street Colonial Revival Designed by Ellis Lawrence for James C. Cameron

When the current owners purchased this house in 2000, they were already long-time residents of Irvington.  The house was in fine shape, but the landscaping was uninspired.  They quickly changed that with a new brick retaining wall and outdoor patio space (plus a delightful public bench on the corner built into the new brick wall).  The home now has a landscaping frame to match the magnificence of the house itself.

As to the house, it was designed in 1909 by the firm of McNaughton, Raymond and Lawrence for James C. Cameron, a local politician who ran for governor in 1910, but lost.  This architectural firm is primarily remembered today for its partner Ellis Lawrence, who went on to found the University of Oregon School of Architecture and become one of Oregon's most important regional architects.  Many of Irvington's fine homes were designed by Ellis Lawrence in several different styles.  For more on his work in Irvington see the listings for the Dickson, Gilliland, and Miller homes in the National Register section of this web site.

The design of the home is characterized by a grand central staircase, generously sized rooms and substantial moldings.  The windows flanking the front door and on the landing are in the Prairie style -- unusual but apparently original.  The marble entry hall floor and fireplace surrounds reflect the previous owner's occupation as a marble dealer.  The biggest interior transformation undertaken by the current owners is the expansion and brightening of the kitchen.

Nearly every room of the home is devoted to display of the owner's extensive collection of contemporary art, including sculpture, photography and painting.  Extensive international travels have also netted some great furniture and light fixtures which are found throughout the house.