A slice of Portland's architectural history has hit the market with the listing of a midcentury modern condo located in the city's iconic Fontaine building. According to The Oregonian/OregonLive, the property is situated at 1220 N.E. 17th Ave. Unit 7B is on sale for $339,000. This remodeled corner condo promises an urban living experience surrounded by Portland's vibrant history.
The Fontaine building, renowned for being the east side's first high-rise apartment structure, was designed by Mid Barbour – an architectural pioneer of her time. With her legacy also associated with breaking gender barriers in the mid-20th century, Barbour has added a significant aesthetic charm to the building, further enhancing its architecturally historic allure. Today, a two-bedroom unit has been updated by designer Joshua Matthews, offering contemporary upgrades to match the building's original modernist style.
Per the listing broker Suzann Baricevic Murphy from (W)here Inc., the 937-square-foot space also features new wood laminate flooring, radiant heat, air-conditioning systems, and a kitchen outfitted with quartz countertops and stainless-steel appliances. "It’s a super cool building, and the condo was redesigned by a designer/owner, which helped keep the cost down, making it so well priced for the finished product," Murphy told The Oregonian/OregonLive. Monthly costs for the condo, after a 20% down payment, are estimated at $2,904 for principal and interest, alongside a monthly $556 homeowners association fee, property taxes, and homeowner insurance.
Further underscoring its appeal, additional details from Realty Portland explain the unit's luxe amenities, including a rooftop garden, hobby room, private parking, and mid-century-styled fittings. Touting expansive cityscape and Mount St. Helens views, this property is not just a residence but a ticket to Portland's splendid mid-century romance. The Fontaine represents, as it drips with fabulous style, 60's architectural innovation and was the first high-rise on Portland's east side according to Piece of PDX.
The Fontaine, developed by Richard "Dick" Smith and built by Smith-Farrens, stands as a testament to the Modernist movement's impact on Portland's architectural landscape. With a heritage spanning notable past residents, such as Judge Donald E. Long business owners from Rogoway Jewelers and Van Duyn Chocolates, the building continues to be a coveted slice of real estate. Those in the market for a home that doubles as an architectural landmark will find 1220 NE 17th Ave #7B a compelling prospect.
