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May 4, 2026

OREGON: Restoration

Photo by Cooper Howard [enlarge]
The scope included highly detailed plaster restoration work, requiring artisan craftsmanship to replicate century-old architectural elements that were no longer commercially available.

Albina Library

Location: 205 N.E. Russell St., Portland

Contractor: Western Partitions

Architect: Lever Architecture

Labor partners: Operative Plasterers’ and Cement Masons’ International Association; Western States Carpenters

Albina Library is a major renovation and expansion of Portland’s historic Carnegie-era library, transforming the building into a 30,000-square-foot modern community hub while preserving its architectural legacy. Completed in 2025, the project included seismic upgrades, expanded study areas, teen technology spaces, community meeting rooms, a new outdoor courtyard, and integrated public art reflecting local culture. This renovation is part of Multnomah County’s voter-approved library bond program focused on inclusive, community-driven design.

The project is notable for its careful balance of historic preservation and contemporary construction. Western Partitions’ scope included highly detailed plaster restoration work, requiring artisan craftsmanship to replicate century-old architectural elements that were no longer commercially available. Original plaster details — specifically lentil and dart moldings — were selectively removed and studied to replicate accurate profiles. From these samples, custom molds were fabricated and reproduced the historic detailing with fidelity.

Installing these new plaster elements onto irregular substrates shaped by decades of modifications and aging construction. Extensive surface preparation and field adjustment were required to ensure proper alignment and adhesion without compromising the historic appearance. Experienced plaster craftsmen and a disciplined QA/QC process met both modern performance requirements and preservation standards.

Through meticulous planning, custom fabrication, and skilled execution, the project team delivered restored architectural details that are visually indistinguishable from the original work. The Albina Library renovation stands as a strong example of adaptive reuse, demonstrating how historic public buildings can be thoughtfully modernized while preserving the craftsmanship and character that define their cultural significance.


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