Historic Resource Survey Form : Pacific Hall
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Date
2006
Authors
Johnson, Susan
Flathman, Jennifer
Pochert, Erin
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
University of Oregon
Abstract
In the period following World War II, the University of Oregon experienced increasing enrollment and a need for buildings to
house rapidly expanding programs. One of the areas that experienced the greatest growth was the sciences. During the early 1950s
enrollment in science programs increased dramatically. The study of science at this time grew increasingly specialized with a need for
new equipment and support spaces. The University intended for “Science I” to provide a modern home to all of the science disciplines.
The 1952 design by Lawrence, Tucker, and Wallman emphasized utility and economy. The internal arrangements stressed
flexibility of partition walls and durability of materials. The designers selected a reinforced concrete frame to accommodate the
mechanical and equipment load necessary for “modern” science programs. The building has simple rectangular massing with the
exception of the projecting entry bay at the northwest edge. The unadorned walls and massing reflect the building’s half modern style.
It is said that the plain concrete façade is the result of budget cuts and that the original design called for brick. Further research is
required to confirm this. The chair of the building committee of the State Board of Education, Dr. R.E. Kleinsorge, described Science I
as “the single most important building ever added to the campus.” Kleinsorge’s sentiments are evidence of the increasing importance
of science at the University of Oregon and the eagerness with which the community anticipated its construction. Typifying the new age
of technological architecture, the building had a specially designed ventilating system, which pressurized inside air slightly greater than
outside air, making labs odor-free. Also, chemistry labs were equipped with showers in their doors, (Sandahl). The building is
connected to Columbia Hall via a skybridge on the second story. The building was connected in 1962 to what was originally known as
the east wing of Science I but is now known as Onyx Bridge. In 1990, the building was renamed Pacific Hall. In 1990, a connection
was added between Pacific Hall and the new wing of Lawrence Hall. The building continues to house science facilities but now also
accommodates the Yamada Language Lab, Environmental Studies department, American English Institute, and facilities for the School
of Architecture and Allied Arts.
Description
6 pages
Keywords
history, architecture, cultural resources survey