In 1957, Portland, Oregon architect Bud Oringdulph designed a home that would go on to stand the test of time, staying true to its midcentury roots for over 60 years.
When the new owners purchased this property, it had only passed through two owners, remaining mostly in its original condition. However, time had taken its toll, and Workaday Design was tasked with bringing this midcentury gem back to life.
The goal? Restore its midcentury charm while adding modern twists to suit the demands of 21st-century living. The result is a thoughtful blend of past and present, with a deep respect for the home’s original qualities.
One of the first challenges the architects faced was addressing the home’s structural issues. The roof had a significant leak, and the floor pipes had burst, creating the need for major repairs. The team added a completely new roof, along with skylights to flood the home with natural light. The concrete floors were also refinished, and the wood ceilings, once tinted reddish, were sandblasted to restore their natural colour.
The designers didn’t just stop at fixing what was broken. They also sought to elevate the home’s functionality for the modern day. An old pool house was restored and transformed into a studio space for remote work. This new area, complete with a full bathroom and coffee bar, provides a perfect balance of privacy and convenience.
In a conversation with us, they reflected on the special qualities of midcentury design. “Everything was streamlined in shape and layout, moving away from the ornate and towards open floor plans that focused on family living”, they explained. This ethos informed much of their work on this home, where they prioritised openness and usability while maintaining respect for the original design.
One of the most important decisions in the renovation process was keeping the original brickwork intact. “We debated painting the brick but ultimately decided to leave it as is”, the architects shared.
Instead, they chose to paint the walls bright white, which, along with the addition of two skylights and the restored wood ceilings, brought new light into the home while preserving its midcentury aesthetic. “Keeping things like the original cabinets was a no-brainer. They’re so unique, and we were lucky they were still in great condition.”
When asked about the best features of the house, the architects pointed to its orientation toward the backyard. The west side of the home boasts large windows and sliding doors, creating a seamless connection between indoors and outdoors. “It’s as if you’ve left Portland and are on vacation in another magical place”, they said, emphasising the sense of tranquillity the home offers.
For those interested in midcentury design, whether restoring an old home or building new, the architects offered this advice: “Respect the origin of the home. Midcentury materials were meant to express rhythm and character. Don’t overdesign, and pay attention to the details.”
Photos by Meagan Larsen