Portland's historic Mikado Block, a landmark in the Yamhill Historic District, is set for a sensitive refresh. Portland Permitting & Development has approved a proposal for exterior alterations to accommodate a new restaurant on the ground floor of the building at 837 SW 1st Ave. The Mikado Block, an Italianate-style structure originally built in 1880 with a third story and cornice added in 1886, is a City Designated Historic Landmark and a contributing resource to the Yamhill Historic District.
The approved changes aim to revitalize the currently vacant space while respecting the building's historic character. The proposal includes creating a new entry by converting an existing window, replacing non-original entry doors with custom wood-glazed doors, transoms, and sidelights to meet egress requirements. New pendant lighting fixtures and twelve wall sconces, sourced locally from Rejuvenation Hardware, will illuminate the entries and façade. Additionally, an illuminated corner projecting sign (26 sq ft) and new signage on the fabric awnings (48 sq ft) will be installed. New rooftop mechanical equipment will be added to support the kitchen, set back to minimize visual impact.
Design Highlight: The new entry on SW Taylor Street will replace an existing window, enhancing pedestrian interaction and allowing for potential sidewalk seating. The custom wood doors are designed to complement the building's historic architectural details.
The Yamhill Historic District is known for its significant concentration of 19th-century cast-iron architecture, making it a unique area in Portland. The district was largely rebuilt after the Great Fire of 1873. The Mikado Block itself once housed the Olds and King department store on its first floor and professional offices and a Grand Army of the Republic meeting hall on its upper floors. The current alterations focus on the ground level, which has been remodeled over the years.
The project underwent a Type Ix Historic Resource Review, ensuring that the proposed alterations adhere to the Yamhill Historic District Design Guidelines and Central City Fundamental Design Guidelines. City staff found that the changes will retain the building's historic character and will not destroy significant historic materials. No significant archaeological resources are expected to be affected as the proposal does not include excavation. The project received no objections from reviewed city bureaus and no written responses from the neighborhood review. The approval is contingent upon several conditions, including submitting a signed Certificate of Compliance to ensure permit plans match the approved designs.