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2538 NE 21st Avenue
An Archetypal Craftsman Four-Square from 1909 -- Completely Restored
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In 1908, Norris Gregg and his wife Helen moved to Portland from Missouri to open the NW sales office of the Burrows Adding Machine Co. They lived on Broadway while this house was being built for them and moved into it in 1911. He was 26, she was just 24. Their new home had been built by one of Irvington's most influential builders, Archie B. Rice and his father.  The Rice team had perfected the Craftsman Four-Square design, which was hugely popular with buyers from around 1908 through 1915. This is the type of house that is sometimes referred to as "Old PDX" -- a realtors term -- but one indicating the continuing appeal of these practical and beautifully detailed homes. For more on the Rice team and how they turned East Coast theories of "proper" house designs into hundreds of practical homes for "modern living" from 1903 to 1952, see the 2006 Home Tour Lecture: Ovation and Overview, Architects of Irvington pages.

Speaking of "modern living", how might the Greggs and the Rice's marvel at all the amazing technology that fills this beautiful home now. Where Helen Gregg (and, yes, her servant) had a broom, the current owners have installed a central vacuum system. In fact, during their recent thorough renovation of the house, the current owners took advantage of the full array of technology the modern world has to offer, yet integrated it beautifully into their home.

Seven layers of paint, including burgundy and teal, were removed from the woodwork throughout the three floors. You will see the fruits of these labors in the dining room box beams, the built in buffet, and the lovely bench in the living room, which also contains an iPod jack and a plasma television. The draperies and upholstery have all been carefully chosen to harmonize with a historic color palette. Custom plantation shutters, as well as a handcrafted front door, attend to the privacy needs of the owners, while still allowing original leaded glass panels to shine.

As you browse the photos, look for the delightful elephant painting in the back parlor, painted by Jenny Harmon Scott, whose beautiful home (and artists studio) was also featured in the 2006 Tour.

Upstairs you will find charming children's bedrooms, as well as the former master bedroom, now a spacious guest room. The third floor is now the master, and has been fitted with an elegant new bath, complete with Jacuzzi, granite, and travertine tile.

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