Portland Classical Chinese Garden
Portland, Ore.
Robertson, Merryman, Barnes Architects

Ancient wisdom is conveyed through form and symbol in this tranquil urban refuge

© C. Bruce Forster

For more photos click on 'photos & drawings' above. To see the people and products behind this project click on 'people & products.'

Portland's Classical Chinese Garden resides within a walled block in the Old Town/Chinatown neighborhood. A unique friendship project, the garden evolved out of the strong sister city relationship between Portland and Suzhou, China. Consisting of enclosed and open-air structures, it is based on Classical Suzhou Style design principles from Ming Dynasty China. Named Lan Su Yuan or Garden of Awakening Orchids, it is the first code compliant, authentic, full-size Classical Chnese garden in the United States.

The project consists of 11 small buildings and pavilions connected by walkways, a lake, a series of rockeries and landscaping enclosed by a perimeter wall with lattice windows that ‘leak' views inside. Buildings and pavilions are used for exhibition and performance spaces, and include meeting rooms, a tea house, restrooms, gift shop and ticket booth, and a storage building. The larger purpose of the buildings is to provide a backdrop for contemplating and experiencing the many layered and symbolic experiences of the garden. They are also exhibits unto themselves, examples of historic Chinese garden architecture.

The design was a true Chinese/American collaboration. The team's biggest challenge was achieving authenticity while complying with building codes and maintenance concerns. The Chinese team designed visible elements of the above ground structures and landscaping. Buildings and materials were constructed and disassembled in Suzhou, then reassembled and finished in Portland by a crew of 60 Chinese artisans.

Portland's Classical Chinese Garden has been an incredible boon to the neighborhood with increased business for restaurants and shops and a noticeable increase in retail and housing in the area. The Port of Portland relocated into the neighborhood, partially because of proximity to the garden into which employees enjoy views.

Formal name of building:
Portland Classical Chinese Garden

Location:
Portland, Ore.

Owner:
City of Portland

Architect's firm:
Robertson, Merryman, Barnes Architects
1231 N.W. Hoyt Street, Suite 403
Portland, OR 97209
503/222-3753