2953 
Singer, David 
HP 2000 C STRUCTURES REPORT: 
'ALM ~ I a;;i..8"3 q ~ •= ~~u---~, ,ON BUILDING AND.COMMERCE HALL, 
(THE WEST AND EAST WINGS OF THE GILBERT COMPLEX) 
ON THE UNNERSITY OF OREGON CAMPUS, EUGENE 
UO PDX LIBRARY RESERVES 
IN LIBRARY USE ONLY 
FINES: $3.00/hour overdue 
RETURN TO UO PDX LIBRARY 
A TERMINAL PROJECT 
BY DAY ID ADAM SINGER 
COMMITTEE MEMBERS 
Leland M. Roth - Chairman 
Christine Thompson 
Frederick L. Walters 
UNIVERSITY OF OREGON 
HISTORIC PRESERVATION DEPARTMENT 
MARCH2000 

HISTORIC STRUCTURES REPORT: 
THE EDUCATION BUILDING AND. COMMERCE HALL, 
(THE WEST AND EAST WINGS OF THE GILBERT COMPLEX) 
ON THE UNIVERSITY OF OREGON CAMPUS, EUGENE 
A TERMINAL PROJECT 
BY DAVID ADAM SINGER 
COMMITTEE MEMBERS 
Leland M. Roth - Chairman 
Christine Thompson 
Frederick L. Walters 
UNIVERSITY OF OREGON 
HISTORIC PRESERVATION DEPARTMENT 
MARCH2000 
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TABLE OF CONTENTS SINGER• i 
TABLE OF CONTENTS 
Table of Contents ... ...... .. .. ... . .. . ... ..................... .. .. . .... .. . .. ... .... .i 
Lists of Figures .... ... .................... . ...... . .. .. .. . . . . . . . .................... .ii 
Acknowledgements ... .................. . ......................................... vi 
Executive Summary ................. . .. . . .. ........ . ...................... .. .. . vii 
Preface .. ...... ...... . ... . . . .. . .................... . ............ . . .... . .. ... . ..... viii 
General Introduction ............ . ..... . .................. . .............. . .. ... .... x 
PART ONE CONTEXTUAL HISTORY .... ...•...•. ... . ................. . .. . ................ •.. 1 
Abstract .... .. .. .. .. . ... ... .. . ...... . .. . ...... .... . ....... .. .... . ....... . ........... 1 
Ellis Fuller Lawrence .......... . .. . ..................... ... ................. . . .. . .4 
The Lawrence Building Survey ..................... .. ............ .. . .. . .. . . .. 9 
Brick and Terra Cotta to Steel and Concrete ............. . ... .... .. . .. . .... 11 
Early Campus Planning ............ . ..... . ...... . . . .. .. ........ . ...... .. ... ... 13 
1991 Long Range Planning ........................... . . . . . ........ . ..... . ..... 18 
PART TWO THE EDUCATION BUILDING (West Wing) ... .. ............................. 21 
□ Physical Description ... ...... . . . .. . ....... .... . . .. . ................ . ....... 22 
□ Chronology of Exterior Alterations .. . ......... . . ... ..... . .. . ......... . 27 
□ Interior Description and Alterations . .. .......... ...... ..... : . . .. ........ 30 
□ Assessments of Existing Conditions ... . ................ ... . . . . . . . . .... 31 
□ Conservation Standards ... . .. .. ... . . . . ................. ...... . ............ .46 
□ Evaluation of Existing Conditions .............................. ... ..... .48 
□ Recommendations for Treatment. . . . . ....... .. ... .. ...... . ............. . 60 
PART THREE COMMERCE HALL (EAST WING) .................................. . ........ 68 
□ Physical Description . ..... . ... .. .. ... . .. . ...... ... .. .. ... . . . . . .... .... . .. . 69 
□ Chronology of Exterior Alterations ... ................. ................. 73 
□ Interior Description and Alterations .................................... 75 
□ Assessments of Existing Conditions ...... .. . . . . ..... .. .... . ... . ........ 76 
□ Conservation Standards .... .. . ..... . .. ............ ... ......... . ........... 88 
□ Evaluation of Existing Conditions ................... .... ... . ..... . ...... 90 
□ Recommendations for Treatment . ... . . ... . ... . . .......... . ........ ... 103 
APPENDICES A - Critical Design Analysis of the Contemporary Addition 
B - Catalogue of Recovered Terra Cotta 
C - Historic Photographs 
D - Historic Drawing Sets 
E - The Secretary of the Interior's Standards 
F - Conservation References Available on the Internet 
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LISTS OF FIGURES SINGER• ii 
LISTS OF FIGURES 
Note: All figures will appear after the text within each section of the report. Figures not 
cited are the property of the author. 
PART ONE - CONTEXTUAL HISTORY 
FIGURE 1: THE EDUCATION B Ull.DING SOUTHEAST ELEVATION - CIRCA. 1935 .. ............ .. ... .•........•.. . .... xiii 
FIGURE 2 : COMMERCE H ALL SOUTHWEST ELEV A TION - CIRCA. 1930 ........ . . ..... .... ..... . xiii 
FIGURE 3: ELLIS LAW R ENCE AS A SENIOR AT MASSECHUSETTSlNSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY ........ 8 
FIGURE 4 : 1914 CAMPUS PLAN .... ... ..... ........ .. ............... .... . ..... .......... ... 16 
FIGURE 5 : 1923 CAMPUS PLAN .. ····· ··· ····· ···· ·· ··········· ·· ······ .... .... ..•... .. ...... .......... ... .. .... ... .. .... ... .. 17 
FIGURE 6 : 1932 CAMPUS PLAN ... ... .. ......... .... ..... 17 
PART Two- THE EDUCATION BUILDING (WEST WING) 
FIGURE 7 : EAST ELEVATION- EDUCATION .. ............. . ... .... ........ ... ... ....... ... ......... 25 
FIGURE 8: MAIN ENTRY- EDUCATION .. .......... . ......... .. .... .. .... ............ ......... .................... .. ........ ... 25 
FIGURE 9 : WEST ELEVATION- EDUCATION ....... ... . .................. ... ..... ....... ................. .... ....... ............... 26 
FIGURE 10: SOUTH ELEVATION - EDUCATION ...... .. . ....... .. ...... ............ ..... ........ .. ........... .. . .... 26 
FIGURE 11 : Pll.ASTERS AT NORTH ELEVATION - EDUCATION ........................ .............. ....... ... .... ...... ... ..... 26 
FIGURE 12: DETAll. OF TERRA COTTA ROUNDEL - EDUCATION ... .... .. .......... ..................... .... .................... 26 
FIGURE 13: TERRA COTTA  Pll.ASTER CAPITAL - EDUCATION .. .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .... ..... . . ... .. 26 
FIGURE 14: HANDICAP RAMP AT EAST ENTRY, 1975. - EDUCATION .. .. .... . ................... .... ... 29 
FIGURE 15: SODIUM LIGHT- EDUCATION ............ .... .... ..... ................. ..... .................... . . ....... 29 
FIGURE 16: TRANSOM REMOVED ABOVE SOUTHERN ENTRY. - EDUCATION...... . ........ . 29 
FIGURE 17: WINDOWOPENINGADDEDATNORTHELEV., 1951-EDUCATION ..... ..... ......... ................. ........ 29 
FIGURE 18: ALTERATION OF TERRA COTTA COPING, 1951. - EDUCATION.... ..... .. .. ... .............. ....... 29 
FIGURE 19: SUSPENDED CEll.lNG, RM 201. - EDUCATION.. ................. ...... .. ..... ........ ..... ... .... 30 
FIGURE 20: TYPICAL RAMP - EDUCATION ... ..... .. .. ... .... .. ... ....... .. .. .. .. ....... ... ... ..... .... .. .... . ... .... ....... ... ... ....... 30 
FIGURE 21 : STUCCO DETERIORATION ......... 31 
FIGURE 22: EMBEDDED WATER PROOF MEMBRANE ...... .. .31 
FIGURE 23: MORTAR DISINTERGRATION AT STAIR ... ..... ....... ....... .. .. . ... 32 
FIGURE 24: CORRODING LINTEL LIFTING STAIR WALL.... .. . .. ........... .. ....... 33 
FIGURE 25 : SPALLEDTERRA COTTA COPING AT STAIR .. .... . .. ... ........ 33 
FIGURE 26: GROUT PATCH OF SPALLED TERRA COTTA. .. ... . .. .. 33 
FIGURE 27 : ACCUMULATION OF MOSS AND VEGETATION .. . . ......... .. ....... 36 
FIGURE 28 : BEHIND COPPER FLASHING ON PARAPET WALL ... ....... ............... ............................ 36 
FIGURE 29: VEGETATION TAKING . .. .. ................. . .. .. .. ... .. .. ... .... .. ....... 37 
FIGURE 30: SPALLED TERRA COTTA COPING ON PARAPET.... . ....... ................. 37 
FIGURE 31 : SOME IN-PAINTED REPAIR WORK IS PEELING ................ .. ... .... .. .. ........ .. .................................. 37 
FIGURE 32: HISTORIC ROOF VENT " PENTHOUSE" .. ........... .... .. ............ . .......... ... ..... 38 
FIGURE 33 : LEAD ANCHOR NAILS INSTALLED TERRA COTTA .. ... . ......................... ...... .. ..... .. ....... 38 
FIGURE 34 : VERTICALLY HINGED, WOODEN SASH ....... .. .. ... ........ . .40 
FIGURE 35 : GABLED SKYLIGHTS WITH OPERABLE VENT CAPS ... .... .................. .. ..... ................................... .40 
FIGURE 36: TYPICAL ROTATING AWNING WINDOWS ............ .. ...... .. ....... .. ........ ... ............ .... .41 
FIGURE 37 : WINDOW JAMB PAINT DETERIORATION ......... ............... . ........ .. .... ......... ... .41 
FIGURE 38 : PAIRED DOORS WITH¾ LENGTH LIGHTS.............. ............... .. ... ........... .... . . ......... ......... .41 
FIGURE 39: SOUTHERN ENTRY WITH TRANSOM REMOVED ..... ... ........ .......... ... ... .. .. ...... ........ ... ... ............. .4 l 
FIGURE 40: FIRST FLOOR EDUCATION Bull.DING .. .............. ................................. . ............. .. ....... .45 
FIGURE 41 : SECOND FLOOR EDUCATION Bull.DING ......... ..... ........... .... ... ...... .. ... ... .. ........ ........ .. . .45 
FIGURE 42: THIRD FLOOR EDUCATION BUll.DING ...... ...... .... .. ......... .. ......... .45 
FIGURE 4 3: PROPOSED SEISMIC UPGRADING SCHEME. DEGEN KOLB .... .. ... ............. ...... .... ..... . .. ................. 57 
FIGURE 44: SHOTCRETE PROPOSAL ON SOUTH ELEVATION. DEGEN KOLB. .. ........ ............................5 7 
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LISTS OF FIGURES SINGER• iii 
FIGURE 45: MAIN ENTRY FOYER AT SECOND FLOOR .... ... .. ......... .... ... ... .... .......... ...... ....... . ...... ..... ........ .... ... 59 
FIGURE 46: TYPICAL HINGE .. .. ... .. ...... .......... .. ..... .....•....... ......... .... . . .... 59 
FIGURE 47 : HISTORIC BLACKBOARDS WITH CHALK RAILS ........ ... ... ...... ... ..... ........... .. .... . ..... .. 59 
FIGURE 48: ORIGINAL TOILET FIXTURE .. ... ...... .. .. ... ... .. ..... .. ...... ....... .... .... ... ...... ... ...... ...... .. ....•... ..... ..... ... ... 59 
FIGURE 49: ORIGINAL SINK FIXTURE... .... ... ....... ... . ......... .... ..... .... ........ ........ .•..... .. .... .. ... ....... .. .....•. 59 
FIGURE 50: ORIGINAL 'STANDARD' URINALS. ........... ... ......... .... ...... . ... ...... ... .....• .. .. .... ... .. . 59 
PART THREE - COMMERCE HALL {EAST WING) 
FIGURE 51: DETAIL ABOVE MAIN ENTRY - COMMERCE HALL . . .... 71 
FIGURE 52: NORTHEAST ELEV. - COMMERCE .. .... ... .. ....... ..... ........... ... . .. ..... 71 
FIGURE 53 : NORTHWEST EVELATION - COMMERCE. . ... .. ... .. ............. . ..........7 2 
FIGURE 54: A VIEW FROM THE COMMONWEALTH ADDITION - COMMERCE . . . ..... .... ...... ...... .. ........ ... 72 
FIGURE 55 : EAST ELEVATION- COMMERCE .... . .... 72 
FIGURE 56: BACK OF CAVITY WALL- COMMERCE . . ..... .......... ... .... ... .... .. .......... ................. ........ ... 74 
FIGURE 57 : DETAIL OF CONNECTION FLASHING - COMMERCE ... ........ .. ... .. ........ ....... ...... ... ........ .. ....... .. ....... 74 
FIGURE 58: DETAIL OF THE EXPANSION JOINT- COMMERCE .... .... .... .... .. ......... ........... ... . ..... .... .... ..... ....7 4 
FIGURE 59: FOUNDATION STEM WALL UNDER STAIR VAULT ...... ... ..... .. .... .. .... •........... .. ........ ... ..........•• .... ......7 6 
FIGURE 60: SEGMENTAL BRICK ARCH FOUNDATION WALL .. .. .... .. ........................ ...•..... ..... .... ...... ........ ... ...7 6 
FIGURE 61: WALL AND ST AIR AT EAST ENTRY. .. . ..... ... ........ ....... ... ....... .. . 77 
FIGURE 62: DAMAGED CONCRETE NOSING ... .... .... .... ... .. ... ..... ... .... .. .... ............. ......... ... ........ .. .... ..•... .... ..... 77 
FIGURE 63: ABRASION ON BALUSTERS FROM BICYCLE... . ...... ..... ................. .. ........ .. ... .. ... .. .... .. .. 77 
FIGURE 64: MOVEMENT DUE TO CORRODING LINTEL .... .. . . ...... .. ...... ... .... ..... ... ...... .... .... ...... ....• ... . 77 
FIGURE 65 : CRACKING STUCCO AT WINDOW WELL RETA INL"IG WALL. . .... •...... .. ..... ..... .. •... .... .....•.. .... .. ......... 80 
FIGURE 66: ORGANIC DEBRIS ON BELT COURSE AND WINDOWS SILL •.. ... .. .... .... ... .. ........ .... ..... .. ..... ........... ... . 80 
FIGURE 67: GRAFFITI .... .. .. ..... ........ ....... ....... ... . ....... .•.. ...... ........ .................... ..... 80 
FIGURE 68: STAINING AND GROWTH ON THE DRIP EDGE PARAPET COPING............ . .. ......... 80 
FIGURE 69: COPPER FLASHING ABOVE THE CAVITY WALL .... ............ ... . ..... ... ... ........ .. .... ...... . 80 
FIGURE 70: Moss GROWTH AND VINES ON THE BRICKS ... .. ......... ... ..... ............ ......... ....... •.. .. .... ............ .. .... 80 
FIGURE 71: METAL RETAINING BARS, ANCHORED TO THE PARAPET COPING .. ..... ....... ..... ..... ........... ...... ... .. 81 
FIGURE 72: LATEX SEALANT BETWEEN PARAPET COPING.... ... . . ... .... ..... 8 1 
FIGURE 73: SKYLIGHT ... . ... ..... ... .. 82 
FIGURE 74: WINDOW HARDWARE AND DAMAGE AT MULLION ... . ... 82 
FIGURE 75: MAIN ENTRY DOORS AT WEST ELEVATION ............. .. .. .•.... .. .. . . .... . 83 
FIGURE 76: FIRST FLOOR ENTRY DOORS AT SOUTH ELEVATION ....... ............ ..... ... .. .. . ... ... 83 
FIGURE 77: TYPICAL 9 OYER 9 WOODEN SASH ... .. .... .... ..... ......... . ... 83 
FIGURE 78: TYPICAL 6 OYER 6 IN OPEN POSITION .. ... ... ........ .. .... .... ... .. ............ ... . ... 83 
FIGURE 79: FIRST FLOOR COMMERCE HALL. ....... .... ....... ...... .... . ..... . 87 
FIGURE 80: SECOND FLOOR COMMERCE HALL ........... .... ..... .. ............ • . .. 87 
FIGURE 81 : THIRD FLOOR COMMERCE HALL ...... .. .. .... .......... ... ... ...... . .. . 87 
FIGURE 82: PROPOSED SEISMIC UPGRADING SCHEME. DEGENKOLB. . .. ........ .... ... .. .... .......... ...... ..... .. 99 
FIGURE 83 : PROPOSAL FOR EXOPY DOWELS. DEGENKOLB. ..... ....... ...... .. .... .... . .. ..... ...... 99 
FIGURE 84: MAIN ENTRY FOYER ON SECOND FLOOR. ... . .... ... .... ..... ....... .•.. ..... .•.. ..... .•... .. ...... 101 
FIGURE 85 : EAST ENTRY AT FIRST FLOOR. .... .. . ...... IOI 
FIGURE 86: ROOM 364. ALL ORIGINAL MILLWORK ..... ...... ... .. .. .... ... ... ... .... ....... ......... . 102 
FIGURE 87 : TYPICAL HISTORIC SECONDARY DOOR ..... .. . ...... 102 
FIGURE 88: ORIGINAL BATHROOM STALLS. ..... .. ...... .... ........ .. .... .. ... . .... .... .... .. .... •. ......... I 02 
FIGURE 89: STAIRWELL WITH MOLDINGS, RAILS, BALUSTERS AND NEWELS ..... .... .... ....... ......... .. ...... .•...... .102 
FIGURE 90: ORIGINAL ' STANDARD' FIXTURE.... .. ...... ..... ............. . ......... 102 
FIGURE 91 : WINDOWBANKINPARTITIONWALLON 3RD FLOOR ..... .. .. ... ............... .. .... .... .... ... ...... ...... .. ... .. 102 
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LISTS OF FIGURES SINGER• iv 
APPENDIX A - CRITICAL DESIGN ANALYSIS OF THE CONTEMPORARY ADDITION 
FIGURE 92: SOUTH ELEVATION OF COMMONWEALTH ... .. ..... ....... . ... ......... ....... ..... ..... ... ...... .. .... . A7 
FIGURE 93: STA IR TOWER .. . . . . . ... . . . . .. . . . . ... . . . . ... . . . . . . . . . . . .. A 7 
FIGURE 94: NORTH ELEVATION OF COMMONWEALTH ...... ... ... .. ........ .... .. . .. ... A8 
FIGURE 95 : BREEZEWAY .. .. .... .. ..... .... .. .... .... ........... .. ... ... .. ...... ... .... ..... . ......... .... ..... . A8 
FIGURE 96: MEMORIAL QUADRANGLE TO THE SOUTH .... ........... ............ ...... .. ..... ..... ... A9 
FIGURE 97 : CENTRALCOURTYARDTOTHESOUTH .... ... .. .... ... .. . .................. ....... ... .... ... .. ..... ... A9 
FIGURE 98 : DEADY HALL, 2N° EMPIRE STYLE ... ... ... ... ..... ..... .... .... ...... ........ .... ..... . . ... A9 
FIGURE 99 : GRASSY OPEN SPACE TO THE NORTH ..... .. ... .. ... ..... .. .......... .......... .... .............. .. .... ....... .. .... .. A9 
FIGURE 100: QUIET BACKSIDE TO THE EAST .. .. ....... .. .. ... .. .... . .... ... .. ...... .. ..... ...... ..... ... .. ..... .. .... . A9 
FIGURE IO I : FENTON HALL TO THE EAST ... . . ... . .. ... . . .. .. . . .... . . . .. ..... ... .................. .. ...... ................ A9 
APPENDIX B - CATALOGUE OF RECOVERED TERRA COTTA 
FIGURE 102: STAIR VAULT .... ...... .... .... ... .. ..... .. ... .. .... .... ..... ... .... .. .......... .... . ..... Bl 
FIGURE I 03: Pll..ASTER CAPITAL ...... .. ... ..... .. .... .. ..... .... ... ........... ... ...... ... ... ... ............ ......... ............... .. .... .... BI 
FIGURE 104: CROWN PIECE. .... .. ....... .. .. .... .... ... .. ... .. ..... .. ... .. ... ..... ..... ... ... .... .. .......... . .. ..... .. ....... B2 
FIGURE 105: CROWN PIECE.. .. ... ....... .... .................... .... ... ........ ........ .. ..... ...... ......... . ..... .. ........... .. B2 
FIGURE 106: ROOFING TILES....... ... ..... .. ...... ... .......... .. ... ... .... .... ... ..... ......... .. ........... .. ... ... .... ... .... .. B3 
FIGURE 107: EAVE CAP..... ..... ... ..... ............ ... . .. ... .. .... .. ........... ..... .. ............ ....... .... .. .... B3 
FIGURE 108: EAVE CAP....... .. ... ... .... ... .. ..... .. . .. ........... ..... .... ..... ... ........ ............ ...... ............ ....... .......... B3 
FIGURE 109: QUATREFOIL IN RELIEF... ... ..... .. . .. ............ ..... .... .... ...... ....... ......... ........ ........... ... .... ... ..... ... B4 
FIGURE 110: QUATREFOILINSET..... ... ... .... .... . ..... ....... ..... .... .. .... ... .. .... ... ..... ... ... ...... .. ... B4 
FIGURE 111 : SPADE AND TREFOIL BELT COURSE PIECE ... .. .... ... ....... ... ... ... ... . ..... ... ...... ... ...... .... B5 
FIGURE 112: BELT COURSE PIECE... ... ... ... ... ...... ..... ..... ... ... ..... .. .... ..... ............ .. . ...... . B5 
FIGURE 113: BALUSTER... .. ... ......... .. .... ... ... ... .... .... .... ...... .... .. ........ ... .. ... ........ ... . .... B6 
FIGURE 114: PILASTER SECTION . ... .... ...... .. ...... ..... ............... .. . .. .. ... B6 
FIGURE 115: CORNER DETAIL ...... ... .... B7 
FIGURE 116: CORNER DETAIL .. .. ..... ....... B7 
APPENDIX C - HISTORIC PHOTOGRAPHS 
FIGURE 117: EDUCATION BUILDING SOUTHEAST ELEVATION - CIRCA. 1935 .... ... .. ...... ... ......... Cl 
FIGURE 118: EDUCATION BUILDING NORTH ELEVATION - CIRCA. 1940.... ....... ... ... ......... ... .. . .. . C2 
FIGURE 119: EDUCATION BUILDING MAIN ENTRY - CIRCA. 1935 .. ..... ....... ....... ........ ..... ... .. .... ...... ...... .... . C3 
FIGURE 120: EDUCATION BUILDING MAIN ENTRANCE- CIRCA 1935 ........ ..... ... . .. ...... .. ..... ... . C4 
FIGURE 121: COMMERCE HALL NORTHWEST ELEVATION - CIRCA. 1945.... ... .. .... .... .. ... .... C5 
FIGURE 122: COMMERCE HALL NORTHWEST ELEVATION - CIRCA. 1930 ...... .. .... .. ... .... C6 
FIGURE 123: COMMERCEBUILDINGFROM THE NORTH-CIRCA 1925 ... ... ...... C7 
FIGURE 124: COMMONWEALTH ADDITION SOUTH ELEVATION-CIRCA. 1960 ..... . .... ..... .. .. C8 
FIGURE 125: COMMONWEALTH ADDITION AND STAIR TOWER CONNECTION - CIRCA. 1960 ........ ... ... ....... . C9 
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D EDICATION S INGER• v 
To Major 
This man 's best friend. 
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ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS SINGER• vi 
+ ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS+ 
The quality and thoroughness of this project would not have been possible without the 
assistance of the University of Oregon Planning Office. I would like to individually 
recognize my Terminal Project Committee for their dedication, patience and professional 
contribution to this report. Professor Leland M. Roth has inspired me as a writer and 
distinguished historian. Christine Thompson' s background in Historic Preservation and 
Planning has helped tailor this document to the specific needs of the University of Oregon 
Planning Office. Frederick L. Walters provided me with great encouragement throughout 
this project and I would like to offer thanks for his gentle lessons on how to really look at 
a building. Many thanks to Professor Donald Peting and Deborah Snyder who have 
helped make my experience in the Historic Preservation Department positive and 
productive. I would like to thank the Graduate School for their sincere interest in this 
project and the financial support to reproduce this document in color. The support ofmy 
friends and colleagues has given me the confidence to achieve my goals and I would like 
to heartily thank them all. Thanks to Grant Crosby, Robert Morgan and Bud, of the Dorris 
Ranch, who will always inspire me to be a better, kinder and gentler spirit. And, special 
thanks to my friend, colleague and confidant Tracey-Ann Althans for showing me that I 
had the moxie to make this project a success. Lastly, and most importantly, I would like 
to thank my mother and father, Laura and Sheldon Singer, for their continued support of 
my dreams, and all the love and all the pride that any parent could show a son. 
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EXECUTIVE SUMMARY SINGER• vii 
+ EXECUTIVE SUMMARY+ 
The Education Building and Commerce Hall represent a vital connection to the heritage 
of the University of Oregon's architectural development. The buildings signify the 
inception of Ellis Lawrence's planning and design efforts at the University, which are still 
quite evident on the campus today. The quality, craftsmanship and detailing of their 
original construction is demonstrated by their admirable condition. 
There are a number of areas that need to be addressed in order to maintain and improve 
the quality and integrity of the condition of the structures in the long-term. The 
Education Building needs to be repointed above the third story level, at selective areas in 
the lower floors, and at the main entry stair. The brick walls of the main entry stair to 
Commerce Hall need to be repointed and repaired. Care should be given to the sensitivity 
of the seismic upgrading schemes for both buildings in order to avoid solutions that are 
intrusive to the building' s historic fabric and overall character. The historic gable-end 
parapet and cascading corbelled arches on both buildings should be reinstated. The entry 
stairs and landings to both structures should be restored to their original orientation. A 
system of monitoring should be established for the building's envelope, and all 
fenestration should be examined and repaired appropriately. Any alterations to the 
interior of either structure should respect the extant historic fabric and remaining spatial 
organization wherever possible. Finally, the proposed replacement addition should not 
impinge any further on the exterior historic fabric and should attempt to appropriately 
address Lawrence's historic planning strategies. 
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PREFACE SINGER• viii 
+Preface+ 
This Historic Structures Report (HSR) was prepared as partial fulfillment of the requirements 
for a Master of Science in Historic Preservation at the University of Oregon. It is presented as 
a final project, which represents the individual research and documentation efforts of the 
author. The fundamental objective of the report is to document and assess the current 
conditions of the historic Education Building and Commerce Hall. Issues relating to the 
contextual history of the buildings will support this documentation. This HSR is intended for 
use as a reference guide for the University of Oregon Facility Services teams, the University 
Planning Office, Campus Planning Committee and others responsible for the stewardship of 
the buildings and the site. The final product of this project is a usable document consisting of 
recommendations for conservation treatments and restoration guidelines for the sensitive 
treatment of the historic components of the Gilbert Complex. 
The Gilbert complex, which currently houses the Charles H. Lundquist College of Business 
and general classrooms, is comprised of four buildings, including two historic and two non-
historic structures. This HSR provides an in depth examination of the 1916 Education 
Building, now known as the west wing of Gilbert, and the 1921 Commerce Hall, now known 
as the east wing of Gilbert. For purposes of clarity, these buildings will be referred to by their 
historic names in the body of the report. The two non-historic structures in the complex are 
the Chiles Business Center (1986), and the Commonwealth addition (1951). The Chiles 
Business Center was not included in this report, however, a critical design analysis of the 
Commonwealth addition is included in appendix A. 
Several areas concerning the buildings and their infrastructure were not covered in this report, 
as they were beyond the scope of the investigation. Observations of the structural systems are 
included, however, seismic conditions and Life-Safety performance issues requiring a more 
technical background than the author was able to provide, have been addressed by Degenkolb 
Engineers. Degenkolb's recommendations are included in this report in the assessment and 
evaluation of the buildings. Cost estimates for the labor and materials necessary for the 
recommended treatme.nts are not addressed in the report. To ensure accuracy and maintain 
EDUCATION BUILDING HISTORIC STRUCTURES REPORT 
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LLIILIIIIU 
PREFACE SINGER• ix 
quality control, these estimates should be prepared under the supervision of the project 
management staff in the offices of Facility Services at the University of Oregon. The 
Secretary of the Interior's Standards for the Treatment of Historic Properties will be referred to 
in the body of the report. The recommended treatments outlined for each building will adhere 
to these Standards. The Secretary of the Interior's Standards for the Treatment of Historic 
Properties including, Preservation, Restoration, Rehabilitation and Reconstruction are located 
in Appendix E for the readers referral. 
EDUCATION BUILDING HISTORIC STRUCTURES REPORT 
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GENERAL INTRODUCTION SINGER• x 
+General Introduction+ 
The design of the Education Building and Commerce Hall set a standard for quality in 
masonry construction that could never again be financed on the University of Oregon Campus, 
projecting a campus wide architectural idiom that remains both eclectic and diverse. I The 
Education Building and Commerce Hall represent the beginning of the largest major building 
campaign in the University of Oregon's history. This building campaign was headed by Ellis 
Fuller Lawrence, Campus Planner, University Architect and founding Dean of the School of 
Architecture, starting when Lawrence established his position at the University in 1915 and 
ending with his death in 1946. The Education Building, designed by Lawrence and 
constructed in 1916, was the first to be completed on the main quadrangle for the 1914 
Campus Plan. Commerce Hall, also designed by Lawrence, became the second building on 
the proposed quadrangle in 1920. These buildings are constructed of brick with architectural 
terra cotta detail and mirror each other across a courtyard located prominently at the northern 
end of the Memorial Quadrangle. The Education Building and Commerce Hall became an 
integral pair within a set of six historic structures designed by Ellis Lawrence, which surround 
the quadrangle at the major academic center of the campus.2 
Over the years the Education Building and Commerce Hall have suffered interior alterations, 
incompatible additions and deferred maintenance, leading to the deterioration and subsequent 
removal of historic building fabric and some loss of defining architectural character. These 
buildings represent Eugene' s link with the expanding national interest in brick structures that 
incorporated terra cotta detailing. This trend lasted from the late nineteenth century to the 
1930's.3 The ornamental terracotta and brick masonry detailing on these buildings were 
custom designed by Lawrence in his eclectic style, embellished with symbolic detail and 
handcrafted to exact specifications. This report will assess and evaluate the condition of all 
1 
Michael Shellenbarger, "Ellis F. Lawrence: Nonresidential Design," in Harmony in Diversity: 
The Architecture and Teaching ofE llis F. Lawrence (Eugene: University of Oregon, 1989) 42-60 
2 
The other four include: Condon Hall, Chapman Hall, Knight Library and the UO Museum of Art. 
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GENERAL INTRODUCTION SINGER• xi 
the materials that comprise the building envelope. The investigation will try to identify 
problem areas where building systems connect or join. Recommendations for monitoring, 
repair or replacement will detail the most current and sensitive conservation strategies. 
Significant portions of the interiors of these buildings have been altered and manipulated into 
classrooms and office spaces with dividing walls and suspended ceilings. The entire stair 
structure in the Education Building has been replaced for Life-Safety purposes. Most of the 
original interior finishes and built-in features have been removed or covered over by two 
major interior alteration projects, which occurred in 1951 and 1975. This report will assess 
and evaluate the historic interior architectural elements which remain and will provide 
recommendations for interior treatments. 
The Commonwealth addition attached the Education and Commerce buildings on their 
Northern facades in 1951.4 The designed attachment required the removal of historic fabric 
and redefined the character of the setting where these buildings were originally placed. The 
Commonwealth addition is stylistically dissimilar with the historic structures. It is a 
modernist expression with banded steel sash windows and smooth faced brick cladding. The 
historic grand entry promenade, designed by Ellis Lawrence, is now minimally connected to 
the main quadrangle by a small breezeway through the addition. This report will briefly 
assess and evaluate the Commonwealth addition's compatibility and sensitivity to the historic 
structures and the site. The evaluations and recommendations will be based on the guidelines 
set forth in Preservation Brief 14, New Additions to Historic Structures, and the 1991 Long 
Range Campus Development Plan. 
At present, the Lundquist College of Business has outgrown the capacity the Commonwealth 
addition provides and is planning to replace it. Current fiscal plans for the replacement of the 
James M. Hamrick, Jr., "A Survey of the Use of Architectural Terra Cotta in American Commercial 
Architecture, 1870-1930," (MS. Thesis University of Oregon, 1979). 
4 The Portland firm of Wick and Hilger's, were the architects of the Commonwealth addition and the 
interior remodel of the Education building and Commerce Hall. The UO Campus Architect at the 
Facility Servke Office holds their original drawings. 
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addition have risen to over thirty million dollars.5 The SRG Partnership of Portland is the 
firm contracted by the University for the design of the new addition. The schematic plans for 
the addition include a net additional square footage of approximately 55,000 - 60,000 square 
feet. The proposed four-story structure is to provide general university classrooms as well as 
classrooms and offices for the Lundquist College of Business, and will result in a net gain of 
approximately 600 classroom seats. The proposal also includes a remodel of the three floors 
of the Education Building and Commerce Hall. As a result, these two historic buildings have 
been placed at the center of much discussion, heightening the potential for the stabilization 
and restoration of these building's facades. Given the significance of the structures, the 
quality and significance of their original construction and materials, the potential for available 
funding, and the wide array of people interested in the welfare of these buildings, this Historic 
Structures Report could have a vital impact on the quality and sensitivity of potential 
stabilization and restoration solutions. 
Charles Lillis and his wife, Gwen, have given $12 million to the University of Oregon's Lundquist 
College of Business to help finance construction of the Lillis Business Complex. Lillis, earned a 
Ph.D. from the UO business college in 1972. An additional $4.85 million in private gifts has been 
pledged to the project, and the State of Oregon will furnish IO percent of the project cost through the 
sale of bonds. 
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FIGURE 1: 1916 EDUCATION BUILDING SOUTHEAST ELEVATION - CIRCA. 1935 
Lawrence Collection, Courtesy of Special Collections, Knight Library, 
University of Oregon. 
FIGURE 2: 1921 COMMERCE HALL NORTHWEST ELEVATION - CIRCA. 1930 
Lawrence Collection, Courtesy of Special Collections, Knight Library, 
University of Oregon 
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PART ONE - CONTEXTUAL HISTORY SINGER• I 
PART ONE 
CONTEXTUAL HISTORY 
+ABSTRACT 
+ ELLIS FULLER LAWRENCE 
+ THE LA WREN CE SURVEY 
+ BRICK AND TERRA COTTA  TO STEEL AND CONCRETE 
+EARLY CAMPUS PLANNING 
+ 1991 LONG RANGE CAMPUS DEVELOPMENT PLAN 
+Abstract+ 
On January 181\ 1916, the Oregon Emerald printed a front page headline article entitled, 
"New Unit Will House School of Education and Law Department." The article mentioned 
that the site chosen for the structure was a bit controversial in that it proposed to commandeer 
the baseball and soccer fields, which were also used for military training. The action had been 
authorized by the Board of Regents with an estimated cost of$40,000 for construction. The 
School of Education building was to temporarily house the School of Law and Extension 
Department. Another article appeared in that same column which referred to the new 
philosophical approach Oregon was to take toward higher education. President Prince Lucien 
Campbell advocated that the old academic theory of "education for leadership" be abandoned. 
"Educate them all" was Campbell's new motto. So began the history of the Education 
Building and the expansion of the University of Oregon campus. The Education Building was 
the symbolic beginning to a new philosophical era at the University of Oregon, as well as the 
beginning of the single largest architectural expression in the University's history. The 
Education Building bolstered Lawrence's ambition to take the helm of the University's 
architectural development. His desire to create the architectural landscape for the University 
was amplified by President Campbell's philosophical ambition to expand the academic 
capacity of the campus. To this end, Lawrence contacted A.C. Dixon of the Board of Regents 
in regard to the appointment of a Chief Architect for exclusive rights to all commissions on 
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the University campus. In a letter to Dixon dated January 26, 1916, Lawrence emphatically 
stated that, 
" It seems to me a question of definitely selecting, as the Head of the School of 
Architecture, a man who will give all of his time to teaching and who has the 
confidence of the profession ... and, demonstrating the confidence in such a 
choice, by entrusting him with the care of the physical properties and execution 
of the university buildings, thus eliminating any disagreeable elements of 
competition for the architectural commissions of the university work." 6 
Lawrence strengthened his case by identifying the trend in "reputable schools" which 
appointed the Heads of the Schools of Architecture to exclusive university design 
commissions, such as Boston Tech's Mr. Despradelle, Carnegie Tech's Mr. Hombostel in 
New York, the University of California's Mr. John Galen Howard, and the University of 
Washington's Mr. Carl Gould. Lawrence was shortly thereafter appointed University 
~chitect and his planning efforts would begin to evolve.7 
There are many anecdotal themes and variables that comprise the contextual history of the 
Education Building and Commerce Hall. The specific history of the buildings is not in itself 
compelling, but their relationship to certain trends in architectural philosophy, design, and 
planning can provide great insight into the development of the campus. Lawrence's planning 
efforts will forever be th~ major thematic core of the campus's landscape. His choice of 
building materials such as terracotta reflect national trends, and the evolution of his unique 
style had a character based on the teachings of both the nineteenth and twentieth centuries. 
Changes in occupation and the chronology of alterations only tell a small part of the complex 
interdependent history between these buildings, the university, the state and the nation. This 
history is at a critical juncture where the planning and design decisions made in the present 
regarding the replacement of the 1951 Commonwealth addition will yield new interpretation 
6 Lawrence to A.C. Dixon, Board of Regents, January 26, 1916, , University of Oregon Special 
Collections, Kinght Library, Lawrence Collection, Box 9. 
7 An earlier letter to A.C. Dixon at the Booth-Kelly Lumber Company appears in the Lawrence 
Collection, dated October 13 th , 1915. Lawrence was responding to a request for supervision and 
development of the grounds, and specifically outlined hourly fees and a commission he and his 
partner, Mr. Holford would receive for the Education Building. 
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when these buildings are examined fifty years from now. It would have taken incredible 
foresight to imagine that from the humble beginnings of the University of Oregon Law 
Department and its small library in the Education Building that the Knight Law Center would 
come to pass. 
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PART ONE - CONTEXTUAL HISTORY SINGER• 4 
+ Ellis Fuller Lawrence+ 
To truly appreciate the significance of any building designed by Ellis Fuller Lawrence, it is 
necessary to understand the breadth of his impact on the architectural profession in the State 
of Oregon. The freedom to explore the undeveloped architectural landscape at the turn-of-
the-century in the Pacific Northwest was the perfect match for Lawrence's passion for design 
and his personal motivation to establish himself within the profession both locally and on a 
national level. Architect Willis Polk, the first President of the Architectural League of the 
Pacific Coast (ALPC), founded by Lawrence in 1909, said, "He [Lawrence] was a steamroller 
for work. I never saw a man who works so industriously, so enthusiastically, so 
continuously."8 The published works that document Lawrence's career chronicle several 
major organizational institutions, actively fostered or founded by Lawrence in the State of 
Oregon. These organizations include: the Portland Architectural Club (PAC) founded in 
' 1906, the ALPC of 1909, the Oregon Chapter of the American Institute of Architects (AIA) 
established in 1910, the Builders Exchange founded in 1911, and the Oregon Building 
Congress established in 1921. The focus of these institutions and organizations varied from 
classes in architectural design and training in traditional building crafts, to providing a forum 
for communication between architects, owners, contractors, and the local politic.9 The 
common thread of Lawrence's participation in these organizations was his desire to instill a 
level of professionalism and quality in the building community. He wanted to establish a 
standard of quality in Oregon's built environment, and he wanted that standard to include an 
artistic appreciation. 10 These simple but lofty goals were formed at the earliest stages of 
Lawrence's training. 
8 Proceedings of the Second Annual Convention of the Architectural League (Los Angeles: April 
1912) PG42. 
9 Shellenbarger, Harmony in Diversity, 12- I 3. 
10 The first formal classes in architectural design were established by Ellis Lawrence in Portland, 
through the Portland Architectural Club in 1909. Lawrence also taught a night class for carpenters at 
the YMCA. Through his affiliation with the Oregon building Congress, he established an 
apprenticeship school and the Guild of Craftsmen. The Guild was recognized by both Herbert 
Hoover and FRD, and inspired others in both New York and Pennsylvania. 
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Lawrence was introduced to the tools of the architectural profession at a very early age at his 
father's manufacturing business in Boston, Massachusetts, where artist and engineer supplies 
were made and sold. His first love was portraiture, which he enjoyed throughout his lifetime. 
In college, though, he turned his developing drawing skills to architecture. Lawrence attended 
Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) and graduated in 1902 with a Master of 
Architecture at the age of twenty-three. MIT was the first university in the United States to 
offer a program in architecture, beginning in 1865, and the school's guiding doctrine and 
curriculum were patterned after the distinguished program at the Ecole des Beaux-Arts in 
Paris, France. 11 Lawrence's chief professor at MIT, Mr. Constant Desire Despradelle, who 
was a graduate of the Ecole des Beaux-Arts himself, highly influenced his conservative 
approach to design and planning. 12 Lawrence's campus planning efforts took advantage of 
traditional design strategies highly espoused by the Ecole, characterized by strong 
symmetrical elements and dominating axis connecting promenades to malls, squares and 
quadrangles. His residential buildings were also conservative in nature, employing well-
known and accepted styles such as the Colonial and Arts and Crafts style. His civic, academic 
and ecclesiastical design work had its basis in classicism and time-honored architectural form. 
Lawrence's old-school approach is clearly visible in his design for the Education Building, yet 
it is markedly unique. 
Lawrence expanded his conservative trappings with modem design ideas that were developing 
in the architectural community at the turn of the century. Lawrence was a strong advocate of 
a trend referred to as Academic Eclecticism, which was a prevailing idea in the United States 
well into the mid-1930's. 13 Using classical precedent as its underpinning, the philosophy of 
Academic Eclecticism was based on the evolutionary manner in which new styles develop 
from styles of the past. The Education Building, Lawrence's first structure on the university 
11 Lawrence participated in an atelier while he was in Paris, France, after finishing his studies at MIT. 
The atelier, run by Eugene Duquesne, was not affiliated with the Ecole des Beaux-Arts. 
12 Leland Roth, "Ellis Lawrence: The Architect and His Times," Harmony in Diversity (Eugene: 
University of Oregon, 1989). 62 
13 Bryan Crawford, The Residential Architecture ofE llis Fuller Lawrence. ( M.S. Thesis, University of 
Oregon, 1988). 
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campus, was a statement that had great impact on the diverse architectural idiom he 
envisioned on the campus. The exotic style of the Education Building and Commerce Hall has 
been contemporarily labeled Mediterranean, but it is likely Lawrence himself might have 
termed the style, "Modernized Byzantine. 14" Lawrence adapted his mastery of historical 
styles into an eclectic expression in the Education Building, whose design features stepped 
away from the strict form of classical elements in an inventive, lively manner. Many of the 
building's components such as column and pilaster capitals, inset tiles, roundels and 
fenestration are symbolic and allegorical, yet they playfully form a harmonious expression. 
Lawrence designed and built over twenty-five buildings on the University of Oregon campus, 
each with a unique expression that contributes to a collective diversity. 
"Harmony in diversity" was an acclaimed saying of Lawrence. This saying represents a strong 
philosophical commentary on the melting pot culture in the United States at the beginning of 
the twentieth century. It represents the open-minded approach of men and women willing to 
change with the times, question the status quo, and re-examine societal norms within their 
profession in an evolutionary light. In design, it is clear by looking at Lawrence' s work that 
he had a deep respect for history and tradition, but accepted the challenge to explore the 
nuances of several styles in order to form new successful expressions. His insightful, open-
minded philosophy also inspired a controversial challenge to the accepted teaching methods 
within the architectural community. 
Lawrence' s formal architectural training had its roots in the traditional Parisian style of the 
Ecole des Beaux-Arts. Lawrence embraced the opportunities which the fine arts could lend to 
his architectural design palette, using wrought iron, painting and sculpture in his own work. 
Once the School of Architecture at the University became established, Lawrence expanded the 
traditional architectural curriculum he was exposed to at MIT and incorporated more classes 
14 Ellis Lawrence Building Survey, Volume 2, Micheal Shellenbarger and Kimberly Lakin-Project 
Directors, (Salem: State Historic Preservation Office, 1989). The Education Building and 
Commerce Hall evaluation forms are printed in this volume, as are all other Lawrence structures 
located in Eugene. 
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in the fine arts. The School of Architecture and Fine Arts was founded on this 
interdisciplinary curriculum and eventually becoming the School of Architecture and Allied 
Arts, including the following classes; weaving, textiles, pottery, tile, terra cotta, modeling, 
carving, bookbinding, leatherwork, needlework, jewelry, costume design, illustration and 
painting. At first Lawrence formed the coursework for the Architecture Program patterned 
after the disciplines of the competitive design studios, rooted in the Beaux-Art atelier system, 
and assigned traditional academic design problems. However, after the School's membership 
was secure in the Association of Collegiate Schools of Architecture, he eliminated the 
competitive tension of the studio, and began incorporating practical problem statements. The 
construction projects on campus became part of the studio experience. 
Lawrence required his students to participate in real world construction projects at the 
university, linking the curriculum with the university's building program. At the height of 
Lawrence's building campaign on campus, the university was acting as its own general 
contractor. The Chief of Construction and Mechanical Inspector were part-time faculty 
members, teaching coursework in construction and working drawings at night. This situation 
provided a unique opportunity for the students at the University of Oregon. In combination 
with this, student efforts were called on in conjunction with faculty members to produce 
works of art for Lawrence's new building designs for the campus. Students in the School of 
Architecture's building classes made inspection of these new campus buildings twice a week. 
The Education Building and Commerce Hall provided an invaluable opportunity for Lawrence 
to instill in his students the value of teamwork, and his philosophical appreciation for the "art" 
of building. 
Lawrence was a visionary architect and he incorporated his ability for insight and teaching 
into many realms of his professional and academic career. Lawrence reveled in the chance to 
create a forum to teach and improve the skills and knowledge of people in the building 
community. This is evident through his foundering and support of many organizations, most 
significantly his fathering of the School of Architecture and Allied Arts at the University of 
Oregon. Lawrence's former partner and classmate from MIT, E.B. MacNaughton, poignantly 
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PART ONE- CONTEXTUAL HISTORY SINGER• 8 
summarized Lawrence's idealism when he said, "While so many ofus were making money, 
Lawrence was making men." 15 
FIGURE 3: ELLIS LAWRENCE AS A SENIOR AT MASSECHUSETTS 
INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY. Lawrence Collection, Courtesy of 
Special Collections, Knight Library, University of Oregon. 
15 
Mable Holmes Parson, "One of Oregon's Great Men," radio script, c. 1946, Lawrence Collection, 
Knight Library, University of Oregon. 
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+ LAWRENCE SURVEY+ 
Michael Shellenbarger, the Director for the Historic Preservation Program in the School of 
Architecture and Allied Arts at the University of Oregon, led a survey effort focused on the 
projects of Ellis F. Lawrence In 1989. 16 Students in the Historic Preservation Program and 
many professionals in the preservation community surveyed and evaluated each building 
identified as designed by Lawrence or his associated partners, 257 in all. I 7 Survey forms that 
conformed to the Oregon's State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO) requirements were used 
for each individual field documentation. An intensive evaluation process followed this. The 
evaluation form was designed specifically for the survey, and rated each building in three 
separate categories including integrity, distinction, and educative or associative value. The 
total score for an individual building was a cumulative result of all three categories. A base 
line score of forty-one points or more was settled upon by SHPO to indicate primary ranking 
, in the survey and determine eligibility for the Nation Register of Historic Places. Both the 
Education Building and Commerce Hall received primary ranking in the evaluation, scoring 
over sixty points each, and are eligible for listing on the National Register. The statement of 
significance in the survey forms for the Education Building and Commerce Hall read as 
follows. 
Commerce and Education buildings were designed by Lawrence to be the twin 
"entry pylons" for his new campus quadrangle, and Education was his first 
major building to be built on campus. Commerce and Education are near twins 
in appearance. Except for alteration to the front stairs and truncation of the 
entry gabled parapets of both buildings, and the addition that joined them, the 
appearance of both is nearly as built. The quality of these two buildings was 
never matched in other UO [University of Oregon] buildings, but their 
architectural style set the pattern for Condon and Chapman Halls, which 
followed with simplified detail, and to a lesser extent, The Library. Together 
with the Museum of Art, these six buildings form the major build ensemble of 
Lawrence's career. 
16 Ellis Lawrence Building Survey, 7 vols. Micheal Shellenbarger and Kimberly Lakin-Project 
Directors, (Salem: State Historic Preservation Office, 1989). 
17 The Lawrence Survey marked the 75 th anniversary of the establishment of the School of Architecture 
and Allied Arts, celebrating the achievements of its founding Dean, Ellis Lawrence. An exhibit was 
presented at the UO Museum of Art, with its companion publication Harmony in Diversity. 
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Lawrence's 1914, 1923, and 1932 Campus Plans were also included in the survey. The 1914 
Campus Plan received a primary ranking in the evaluation. One year after the survey was 
completed, in 1990, a Multiple Property Documentation Form entitled Architecture ofE llis F. 
Lawrence was submitted to the National Register of Historic Places. 8 I The Oregon SHPO 
approved the nomination, which established under Section F various associated property types 
eligible for future nomination. Under the property type "University Buildings," both the 
University of Oregon Museum of Art, and the University of Oregon Knight Library with 
Memorial Quadrangle are currently listed with the National Register. 9 I The verbal boundary 
description for the Memorial Quadrangle does not extend into or include the shared courtyard 
between the Education Building and Commerce Hall. The boundary is delimited by East 13th 
Street at its northern end. 
18 National Register of Historic Places, "Architecture of Ellis F. Lawrence Multiple Property 
Submission," (Salem: Oregon State Historic Preservation Office, August 27, 1990). 
19 These buildings have had individual nominations submitted and approved by the SHPO. 
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+ BRICK AND TERRA COTTA TO STEEL AND CONCRETE + 
During the early Nineteenth Century in England, brick masonry buildings were often 
embellished with terra cotta ornament. The popularity of this type of masonry construction in 
Europe and especially in England had a direct influence on its prominent use in the United 
States at the beginning of the Twentieth Century.20 Students enroll~d in architectural training 
programs in the United States at that time, among them Ellis Lawrence, were being exposed to -
a wide array of construction materials and methods that were rapidly evolving. Traditional 
brick masonry, in combination with architectural terracotta ornamentation, was quickly 
becoming the fashionable construction technology for civic and commercial buildings 
throughout the nation. 
Lawrence's contemporary Ralph Adams Cram, was strongly advocating on the East Coast for 
"the revival of the medieval Gothic quadrangle as an expression of collegiate 
traditionalism."2 I Cram much like Lawrence was noted for his emphasis on employing the 
sister arts of sculpture, painting and other ornamental works in the design of a 'finished 
building'. The sculptural qualities of terracotta, in combination with the detailed brickwork 
of a skilled mason, provided both architects the capacity to construct artful buildings without 
the economically preclusive use of stone. These materials enabled Lawrence to successfully 
meld Cram's veneration of the medieval English quadrangle with his plans for the future of 
the University of Oreg~n campus. 
Four of the six historic structures built between 1916 and 1937 on the University of Oregon's 
Memorial Quadrangle were constructed of brick with architectural terracotta ornament. 
Construction methods and materials were steadily advancing during that time period and 
Lawrence was a strong proponent of the new technology developing in the construction 
industry. As a result, each of the four brick and tcrra cotta buildings on the quadrangle employ 
a modified or evolved internal structure. The Education Building of 1916 uses a heavy timber 
20 Susan Tunick, Terra Cotta Skyline (New York, New York: Princeton Architectural Press, 1997) 2. 
21 Paul Venable Turner, Campus: An American Planning Tradition (Cambridge: MIT Press, 1984) 
217. 
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frame within an unreinforced brick masonry bearing wall assembly. In 1921, Commerce Hall 
switched over to a structural frame composed of steel girders and columns. The construction 
of Condon Hall, which began in 1924, also used a steel frame within a brick masonry bearing 
wall assembly, but had reinforced the connections between the steel frame and the masonry. 
By 1938, when construction began on Chapman Hall, advances in construction technology had 
evolved much further, supplying Lawrence with a revolutionary concrete framing system. 
Lawrence's traditional brick masonry bearing wall system was relegated to become an 
ornamental facing material on Chapman Hall. The architectural terra cotta that was skillfully 
assembled as a composite unit within the masonry wall assembly of the older structures, was 
hung by steel rods embedded in the concrete frame. 
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+ EARLY CAMPUS PLANNING + 
A large part of the contextual history of the Education Building and Commerce.Hall can be 
traced through the evolution of the Campus Plan for the University of Oregon. Lawrence was 
commissioned to design a master plan for the University of Oregon campus by the State 
Board of Regents, based on his experience and credentials, which included a campus plan 
and several buildings for Whitman College in Walla Walla, Washington.22 Lawrence 
submitted his selected design to the Board of Regents in April of 1914. In that same year he 
founded the School of Architecture at the University in Eugene, traveling once a week from 
his offices in Portland where he maintained a private practice. As Dean of the School of 
Architecture and Allied Arts, Lawrence eventually took on the role of University Architect in 
1915, which gave him exclusive design commissions for all University buildings in order to 
compensate for an inadequate teaching salary. Lawrence maintained his private practice and 
retained these positions at the University of Oregon until his death in 1946. During his 
affiliation with the University he developed a series of three Campus Plans including the 
1914, 1923, and 1932 editions. 
The 1914 Campus Plan had several prominent design characteristics similar to other campus 
designs with which Lawrence was familiar. The Regents had sent Lawrence and architect 
William Knighton to study several college campuses in California in order to generate 
schematic and stylistic ·design ideas for the overall layout of the campus. Based on 
Lawrence's professional experience and his training at MIT, he chose to adopt two traditional 
campus planning strategies, both of which had their roots in late nineteenth century campus 
design. 
The first strategy involved the use of a modified Gothic quadrangle where the placement and 
23 
the orientation of buildings surround and define open courtyard or quadrangle spaces.
22 Shellenbarger, Harmony in Diversity, 46. 
23 The adaptation of the modified gothic quadrangle for Whitman College in Walla Walla, Washington, 
inspired by fourteenth and fifteenth century English colleges, is clearly presented by Professor 
Leland Roth in the publication Harmony in Diversity. The origin of Beaux-Arts planning and 
design strategies used by Lawrence are also·explained. 
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Lawrence however, chose to elongate the University's main quadrangle, providing central 
access to the campus through a north-south orientation. The construction of the Education 
Building established the first cornerstone of the main quadrangle in 1914, identifying the 
prominent northwest comer of the scheme. Together with its twin Commerce Hall, built in 
1921, these buildings defined the prominent northern end of the Lawrence's original main 
quadrangle for the university campus, now known as the Memorial Quadrangle. 
The second planning strategy employed by Lawrence in the 1914 Campus Plan was the 
creation of a dominant north-south axis through the main quadrangle. This axis paralleled the 
historic, more minor axis to the east defined by both Deady and Villard Halls. The use of a 
dominating axis is characteristic of the Beaux-Arts style of spatial ordering. The new major 
axis was situated to define an important entrance onto the campus through a set of grand entry 
gates, now known as "Dad's Gates," eventually built in 1940. These gates are located at the 
intersection of Eleventh street. This organizing principle defined the site context for the 
Education Building and Commerce Hall to become the "entry pylons" for the main 
quadrangle, leading from an arrival area for cars, railroad, trolley and travel along the 
Millrace. 24 The 1914 Campus Plan included eleven large buildings surrounding the main 
quadrangle likely with classically inspired eclectic expressions similar to that of the Education 
Building and Commerce Hall. These buildings were meant to form a grand promenade 
leading to the southern ·end of Lawrence's proposal, terminating with a large-scale auditorium 
structure. This vision was not realized and only two other structures on the main quadrangle, 
Condon Hall (1921) and Chapman Hall (1937), have survived Lawrence's 1923 and 1932 
alteration to his campus plans. Eighty-five years later, however, the basic, prominent 
schematic design of the Memorial Quadrangle remains intact and well defined in the campus 
landscape. 
Ellis Lawrence's 1923 Campus Plan was basically a revision of the original 1914 scheme. 
This plan updated the 1914 Campus Plan to include the new buildings that were constructed 
24 Taken from the Statement of Significance for the Education and Commerce building' s evaluation. 
Ellis Lawrence Building Survey, 7 vols. Micheal Shellenbarger and Kimberly Lakin-Project 
Directors, (Salem: State Historic Preservation Office, 1989). 
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PART ONE - CONTEXTUAL HISTORY SINGER• 15 
during Lawrence's first eight years as Campus Planner.25 A total of seventeen new structures 
were added to the campus in that time frame including the Education Building and Commerce 
Hall. The 1923 Campus Plan also proposed several buildings to complete the east-west 
oriented women's quadrangle located behind Knighton's Administration building. It featured 
a redesign of the southern terminus of the Memorial Quadrangle at the auditorium, with the 
museum and the library flanking the east and west respectively. The auditorium was never 
built. Instead, coaxed by the President of the University, Arnold Bennet Hall, Lawrence 
moved the Library to the conspicuous northern terminus of his grand axial scheme, in effect 
creating the Jeffersonian metaphor which represented the focus of academic life. 
Beyond relocating the library, the 1932 Campus Plan represented some truly visionary thought 
by Lawrence. Lawrence saw an upward curve in high school enrollment in Oregon and 
responded with a proposal for a massive expansion of the entire campus, almost doubling the 
total area. The proposal that relocated the library structure to the head of the Memorial 
Quadrangle also quadrupled its square footage. Dozens of new buildings were included in the 
proposal including ranges of dormitories and support buildings at the east edge of campus, 
and the entire campus was to expand one full block to the west. Pertinent to a discussion of 
the contextual history of the existing historic structures at the heart of the campus, was the 
fact that Lawrence himself proposed massive additions to all three existing structures on the 
Memorial Quadrangle, 'including the Education Building, Commerce Hall and Condon Hall. 
These historic buildings were to be integrated into new enlarged complexes for the 
humanities, sciences, and graduate schools. 26 
Today, the Planning Office at the University of Oregon manages the growth and expansion 
which Lawrence foresaw through design review of proposed projects the ensure consistency 
with the 1991 Long Range Campus Development Plan. . This planning document identifies 
Lawrence's strategic plans and tries to foster managed growth that will not compromise the 
successful qualities of Lawrence's 1914, 1923, and 1932 Campus Plans. Lawrence was not 
25 Shellenbarger, Harmony in Diversity, 49- 50. 
26 Roth, Harmony in Diversity, 73-75 . 
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PART ONE- CONTEXTUAL HISTORY SINGER• 16 
far off in his estimation of growth for the University, and the success of his schematic design 
for the original 1914 Campus Plan remains evident in its ability to accommodate an ever-
expanding student population, which has quintupled in size since the class of 1932. 
FIGURE 4: 1914 CAMPUS PLAN 
COURTESY OF UNIVERSITY OF OREGON ARCHIVES, KNIGHT LIBRARY 
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PART ONE - CONTEXTUAL HISTORY SINGER• 17 
FIGURE 5: 1923 CAMPUS PLAN 
COURTESY OF UNIVERSITY OF OREGON ARCHJVES, KNIGHT LIBRARY 
FIGURE 6: 1932 CAMPUS PLAN 
COURTESY OF UNIVERSITY OF OREGON ARCHIVES, KNIGHT LIBRARY 
EDUCATION BUILDING HISTORIC STRUCTURES REPORT 
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PART ONE- CONTEXTUAL HISTORY SINGER• 18 
+The 1991 Long Range Campus Development Plan (LRCDP) + 
The Planning Office at the University of Oregon recognizes the broad impacts of Lawrence's 
visionary master plans, which established patterns of interconnected quadrangles, squares, 
malls and promenades for the campus. The University Planning Office however, has 
developed guidelines in the 1991 LRCDP for making development decisions on an on-going 
basis, rather than basing their decisions on a static "fixed image" master plan. 27 
This type of continual refinement of the development policies at the University is the result of 
a renowned examination of planning policies in 1973 called the Oregon Experiment. The 
Oregon Experiment was the brainchild of Christopher Alexander, the Head of the Center for 
Environmental Structure at the University. The Center collaborated with the University of 
Oregon Planning Office to develop a new concept for the development of planning policy. 
According to the LRCDP, "the concept acknowledges the fact that although change will 
occur, the exact nature and magnitude of that change cannot be predicted with any degree of 
certainty, and that object-oriented plans based on explicit assumptions about the future 
become outdated as that ' future ' becomes known." Along these lines, the LRCDP adopted 
the six basic principles from the Oregon Experiment as its underlying premise. 
These principles include: 
1. Organic Order: Use guiding 'Patterns' which articulate shared traditions 
and understandings of the University Community, rather than 'fixed 
image' Master Plans. 
2. Piecemeal Growth/Continuous Adaptation: Recognize that development 
of the campus occurs gradually. 
3. Patterns: Articulate commonly held values of the campus environment 
as it exists. 
27 The 1991 Long Range Campus Development Plan was written by the University Planning Office and 
received approval from the Campus Planning Committee, and Myles Brand, the President of the 
University in 1991 . The Oregon State Board of Higher Education adopted the plan, and the Eugene 
City Council Acknowledged it with resolutiQn #4263. 
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p ART ONE - CONTEXTUAL HlSTORY SINGER• 19 
4. Diagnosis: A periodic analysis of the campus will enable a continuous 
adaptation of development policies for new structures and additions, 
and pinpoint needs for repair to existing sites and structures. 
5. Participation: Appoint community members and neighborhood 
representatives for each project and development activity. 
6. Coordination: Coordinate separate development activities. 
The LRCDP applies these principles to its overall planning guidelines. The LRCDP 
guidelines have adopted a number of policies from several specialized local planning 
documents. The Eugene/Springfield Metro Area General Plan is one of these documents. 
The Eugene/Springfield Metro Area General Plan lends specific guidance to the LRCDP in 
relation to its Land Development Policies that affect the historic components of Gilbert Hall. 
, An adopted portion of the Eugene/Springfield Metro Area Plan reads, "adopt and implement 
historic preservation policies, regulations, and incentive programs that encourage the 
inventory, preservation, and restoration of structures, landmarks, sites, and areas of cultural, 
historic, or archeological significance consistent with overall policies." The LRCDP places 
emphasis on encouraging preserving and restoring campus buildings, witnessed by the 
ongoing preservation of Villard and Deady Halls and on occasion, other historic structures. It 
also places emphasis on the University' s historic concepts of spatial organization, which were 
put in place by Ellis Lawrence. To this end, the LRCDP has identified a number of distinct 
Campus Analytical Areas. The Gilbert Complex is located in what is referred to as Area 11 . 
Area 11 is recognized as being a major part of the academic core of the campus. The LRCDP 
requirements for passive open space preclude additional developments in significant amounts 
in this area. As applied to the development of Area 11 , the principles of Continuous 
Adaptation and Patterns yield the potential for great improvement to the design of the existing 
Commonwealth addition between the Education Building and Commerce Hall. When 
reviewing proposals for the new addition, the University Planning Office and the Campus 
Planning Committee, recognized the impact of the Commonwealth addition as severe. Ellis 
Lawrence's 1932 Campus Plan, which placed a_temple structure on the dominant axis at the 
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PART ONE- CONTEXTUAL HISTORY SINGER• 20 
north end of the Memorial Quadrangle, has been referred to for support of the preliminary 
schematic design of the new addition. The LRCDP provides three stipulations regarding new 
development in Area 11, including: 
1. Further development of East 13th Avenue frontage is to be avoided. 
2. Proposals for development in this area need to account for preserving and 
strengthening (a) the north-south axis from Dad's Gates south to Gilbert, 
(b) the east-west view corridor from Kincaid and 12th Avenue to Deady 
Hall, and, (c ) the Old Campus Quad. 
3. Additions to existing buildings are to be compatible in terms of materials 
and general character with the original building being improved. New 
buildings should be compatible with the style of adjacent buildings, 
particularly with respect to orientation, massing, scale, and materials. 
' Constructed before guidelines of the University of Oregon Land Use Development Policies 
outlined by the LRCDP, the design of the Commonwealth addition in 1951 probably received 
minimal community input regarding its design. The University was responding to the post-
war drive to quickly provide increased classroom capacity by expanding its existing 
infrastructure. Hard evidence ofrash decisions to expand are visible in the Robinson addition 
to Villard Hall, which has compromised the historic integrity of the West fas:ade . Plans for 
the new connecting addition between the Education Building and Commerce Hall hold great 
potential to compliment the original intent of Ellis Lawrence's historic planning strategies. 
The LRCDP can provide some of the guidance necessary to make general planning and 
schematic design decisions for the new addition. There are also several good publications 
which can help guide decision-making processes regarding the design of additions and their 
connection to historic structures. A critical design analysis of the 1951 Commonwealth 
addition, and a discussion of its impact on the Education Building and Commerce Hall can be 
found in Appendix A. 
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I 
PART TWO- THE EDUCATION BUILDING (WEST WING) SINGER• 21 
PART TWO 
THE EDUCATION BUILDING (WEST WING) 
+ PHYSICAL DESCRIPTION 
+ CHRONOLOGY OF ALT ERA TIONS 
+ INTERIOR DESCRIPTIONS AND ALT ERA TIONS 
+ ASSESSMENT OF EXISTING CONDITIONS 
+ CONSERVATION STANDARDS 
+ EVALUATION OF EXISTING CONDITIONS 
+ RECOMMENDATIONS FOR TREATMENT 
INTRODUCTION 
This section begins with a describing of the location and orientation of the building, and the 
general style and plan shape. The physical description contains a detailed description of each 
cardinal elevation. The alterations to the exterior of the building will then be presented in 
chronological order. A description of the alterations to the building's interior spaces follows. 
The Assessment of Existing Conditions will break down the building by component including, 
foundation, entry stairs, exterior walls, fenestration, structure, and interior finishes. 
Conservation goals ranging from specific to broad-based issues are presented and defined 
next. Evaluations and Recommendations for Treatment for each of the building components 
are addressed with regard to the outlined conservation goals. 
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PART TWO- THE EDUCATION BUILDING (WEST WING) SINGER•22 
+ PHYSICAL DESCRIPTION + 
General location 
The Education Building was constructed in 1916 on the University of Oregon campus on the 
northwest comer of what was to become the Memorial Quadrangle. The Education Building 
is an integral part of the U-shaped Gilbert Hall complex. It is the western wing of the 
complex. The Gilbert Hall complex was established in 1951 when the Education Building and 
Commerce Hall were connected on their northern facades by the Commonwealth Addition. 
The Gilbert Hall complex is separated from the Memorial Quadrangle by East Thirteenth 
Street, which borders the complex on the south. The Education Building' s main entrance faces 
east, across the central courtyard of the complex from historic Commerce Hall (1920), its 
twin. Gilbert Hall has become the northern terminus of the campus's dominant central axis, 
which runs from Knight Library on the southern end, through the Memorial Quadrangle. 
Style and Plan Shape 
Ellis Lawrence designed the Education Building with his distinctive flair for the eclectic, 
joining many stylistic nuances into a unique architectural expression. Likely based on his 
European travel and experience, Lawrence chose a stylistic typology uncommon to the Pacific 
Northwest, referred to as Mediterranean. Typical elements of the Mediterranean style include 
a low rectilinear massing with red of buff colored brick or stone walls, and a low pitched clay 
tile roof. The style was chosen to emulate an academic idiom typical of other campus 
architecture Lawrence encountered in California, where he traveled with architect William 
Knighton to research other campus planning and design strategies in 1915. The Education 
Building employs an L-shaped plan that rises from a concrete slab-on-grade, to three full 
stories. The first floor is partly submerged approximately two feet below finished grade, and 
there is no basement level. 
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PART TWO-THE EDUCATION BUILDING (WEST WING) SINGER• 23 
East Elevation 
A granite cornerstone marked with the 1916 construction date in Roman Numerals is located 
on the south comer. The Education Building sat prominent and alone on Lawrence's proposed 
quadrangle when it was first constructed. Each facade of the building therefore, was composed 
with great care, articulating visual interest from all directions, and rendering certain 
expressions dependent upon the orientation to the campus. The greatest embellishment went to 
the main entrance on the east elevation. Here, Lawrence broke the strong horizontal layering 
of his design with a powerful vertical expression. This vertical expression was achieved with a 
number of architectural elements. Large paired brick pilasters flank the entry portico, rising 
from the composite belt course to the building entablature. The pilasters are adorned with 
flared terra cotta bases and ornamental capitals, embellished with an open book motif 
surrounded by pine boughs with cones. Two dogleg staircases rise to a central landing, 
establishing a balcony-like entrance at the second floor level. The stairs and landings are 
~ ade of cast-in-place concrete. Low brick walls with terracotta coping follow the stair's 
configuration. Where this wall fronts the upper landing, a set often terracotta balusters 
supports the coping. Two wooden doors with ¾ lights are positioned beneath a sixteen paned 
operable transom. The doorway is set in a coffered terra cotta surround. Engaged terra-cotta 
columns and a waffle-like field of 8½" square inset terra-cotta panels, set between terra-cotta 
half pilasters flank the doorway. The engaged columns have square bases with a taurus, and 
capitals with stylized volutes framing pine boughs with cones. A high-pressure sodium light 
fixture has replaced the ornamental lanterns, which historically were installed in the waffled 
terra cotta paneling. 
A semi-circular coffered terracotta arch rests on console brackets supported by the columns, 
projecting two feet from the wall surface. A terra-cotta roundel sits inside the arch, depicting 
the symbolic lamp of knowledge resting on several books. Above the entablature and 
surrounding the arch, is a brick soldier course. The wall assembly above the arch has 2" wide 
continuous vertical joints rising all the way to the roofline. Three deeply set, narrow, multi-
pane-arched windows on a large terracotta lug sill sits above the entry. The center window 
rises one pane above the outer windows. These windows are set on vertical hinges. Flanking 
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PART TWO - THE EDUCATION BUILDING (WEST WING) SINGER• 24 
the windows are small terra-cotta columns with simply detailed capitals and square bases. The 
semi-circular arches above the windows are finely crafted with rubbed brick voussoirs, 
springing from the column capitals and each other. The wall continues to the parapet level 
where copper flashing, formed to imitate the terracotta coping's profile and glaze color, has 
been installed to protect the masonry. Eight terracotta pendants are set in faux support of the 
coping. These pendants were salvaged from an alteration to the original wall and parapet 
detail, which will be described in the Alteration section. The ornately detailed main entrance 
described above is located on the south side of the East elevation. Typical 6/6 windows flank 
the south side of the east elevation on the second and third floors. The north side of the east 
elevation is a simple symmetrical composition with five windows on each floor. 
South Elevation 
The south elevation faces Thirteenth Street, and is predominantly symmetrical in design. 
Centered on the first floor is a stepped down entranceway with a terra cotta surround and a 
twelve pane operable transom. One 6/9 and three 9/9 windows flank the entrance. The third 
floor has six multi-paned arched windows on vertical hinges. The windows are paired 
between four brick pilasters with simple terracotta capitals and bases. Semi-circular brick 
archs above each windows spring from small terracotta columns between the pilasters. Small 
square tiles are inset into the brickwork above the arches. A simple brick entablature rests on 
the pilasters with herring}?one brickwork and inset terra cotta tiles. A corbelled soldier course 
and rowlock course caps the entablature. The third floor has nine typical 9/9 windows 
centered above the windows in the lower floors. 
West Elevation 
The west elevation is broken into two expressions. The north side of the West elevation is a 
simple symmetrical composition with five windows on each floor, including three 9/9 
windows flanked by one 6/6. The wall plane of the south side of the West elevation jogs 
forward approximately two feet. Centered on the first floor of the south side is a stepped 
down entranceway and a concrete handicap ramp with pipe railing. Three 9/9 windows flank 
each side of the entrance. The third floor has two 6/6 windows flanking a centered group of 
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PART TWO - THE EDUCATION BUILDING (WEST WING) SINGER•25 
six 9/9 windows. Brick pilasters with simple terracotta capitals and bases divide these six 
windows. The pilasters support a simple brick entablature with herringbone brickwork and 
inset terra cotta tiles, capped by corbelled soldier and rowlock courses. A 6/6 window, with 
six 9/9 windows centered between them also flanks the third floor. The windows of the third 
floor protrude through the first elements of the building's entablature, subtly breaking the 
strong horizontal geometry on this side of the elevation. 
North Elevation 
The north elevation, which originally faced Dad's Gates, is divided in two sections. The 
eastern side has one 6/6 window and three 9/9 windows on each floor. The north elevation' s 
western side is where the Commonwealth addition attaches with a nine foot wide connecting 
hallway, rising from the first floor to the frieze in the entablature. This side is symmetrical in 
design, and more detailed. The center portion of the wall jogs forward, book-ended on the 
second and third floors by paired brick pilasters with terracotta bases and capitals identical to 
those that flank the main entry. The first floor has no exterior fenestration. Typical 6/6 
windows flank the second and third floors. The frieze in the entablature is embellished with a 
herringbone brick pattern with terra cotta tiles set on edge. The roof parapet that rises from 
the entablature has three extra stretcher courses and one soldier course before the coping. A 
small 6/6 window remains in its original position on the third floor level. 
FIGURE 7: EAST ELEVATION- EDUCATION FIGURE 8: MAIN ENTRY - EDUCATION 
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p ART Two - THE EDUCATION BUILDING (WEST WING) SINGER•26 
FIGURE 9: SOUTH ELEVATION - EDUCATION FIGURE 10: WEST ELEVATION - EDUCATION 
FIGURE 11: PILASTERS AT NORTH ELEVATION. FIGURE 12: DETAIL OF TERRA COTTA ROUNDEL 
NOTE VINES AND GROWTH. 
lr, -..  . 
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l.. -.:--•~  ; .. ,--1""!-,,.:.  -~:_,-. - . ., - _ .. .,". -. . ..;.-... .. .<4 • 'ill("~.----~.,,... .,, .. _I . .. 
FIGURE 13: TERRA COTTA PILASTER CAPITAL 
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PART TWO - THE EDUCATION BUILDING (WEST WING) SINGER• 27 
+ CHRONOLOGY OF EXTERIOR ALTERATIONS + 
The Education building retains a high degree of integrity on the exterior, however, there were 
several alterations that had a significant impact. A minor but symbolic alteration occurred in 
the early 1920's when Lawrence designed a new Education Building for the University. A 
framed panel in the entablature above the main entry that read "Education Building" was 
replaced with a blank panel to avoid confusion. Based on photographic evidence, the large 
ornamental lanterns that flanked the entry were removed and replaced with more modem 
fixtures sometime around the 1951 alteration. 
The most notable alteration is the 1951 Commonwealth addition. The addition drastically 
changed the character and flow of the site, disrupting the axial circulation and view corridor 
established in Lawrence's 1914 Campus Plan. It required the removal of significant and 
copious detailed historic fabric on the northern faryade, which fronted Ellis Lawrence's grand 
entrance promenade from Dad's Gates. The University of Oregon Seal, depicted in a bass 
relief terra cotta roundel, was removed from the northern faryade at that time and relocated on 
the northern faryade of the Commonwealth addition. 
The original entry stairs were manipulated in 1951 to accommodate a regrade of the courtyard 
created by the Commonwealth addition, raising the finish grade elevation 18 inches which 
resulted in the removal of.one leg of the stair configuration on both the Education Building 
and Commerce Hall. Apart from the effect on the 1914 Campus Plan, the most notable 
alteration to the Education Building and Commerce Hall was the truncation of the Gable-end 
parapet wall above the main entrance. This architectural feature, with its pan and saucer clay 
roofing tile, was key to the Mediterranean style that Ellis Lawrence designed. In combination 
with the truncation of the gable-end parapet wall, the cascading corbelled arches in the gable 
were also removed. Strangely, there is no documented evidence of the alteration in the 
Physical Plant's records. The location of the missing terracotta crown pieces underneath the 
Education Building's stair vault indicate that the regrade, removal of the gabled parapet, and 
construction of the Commonwealth are chronologically linked. 
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PART Two - THE EDUCATION BUILDING (WEST WING) SINGER• 28 
The stair access to the first floor on the west elevation was manipulated and a handicap ramp 
access with pipe railing was added in 1975. It is presumed that the terracotta surround was 
removed at this time and the transom window above the doors was bricked up. The transom 
above the southern entry was also removed at this time, which remains covered by a wood 
panel. The reason for the alteration was probably the lowering of the ceiling height in the hall 
to accommodate new infrastructure. 
When the roof was replaced on the building in 1992, a standing seam metal flashing was 
installed on the truncated parapet wall, formed to imitate the terra cotta coping which 
surrounds the rest of the building's roofline. Copper flashing was installed on the inside of 
the parapet wall at this time and five of the skylights were cleaned, painted and had broken 
panes replaced. The large skylight over room 301 , the historic Law Library, was removed and 
curbed up. 
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PART TWO - THE EDUCATION BUILDING (WEST WING) SINGER •29 
FIGURE 14: HANDICAP RAMP AT EAST ENTRY, 1975 FIGURE 15: HIGH PRESSURE SODIUM 
NOTE THAT THE TRANSOM WAS BRICKED-IN LIGHTS REPLACED THE ORNAMENTAL 
LANTERNS THAT FLANKED THE ENTRY 
FIGURE 16: SOUTH ENTRY WITH ALTERED TRANSOM FIGURE 17: WINDOW OPENING ADDED 
TO THE NORTH ELEVATION ON THE 
FIRST FLOOR 
FIGURE 18: ALTERATIONOFTERRACOTTACOPING, 1951 
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PART TWO- THE EDUCATION BUILDING (WEST WING) SINGER• 30 
+ INTERIOR DESCRIPTIONS AND ALTERATIONS+ 
The Education Building had two major alterations to its interior in 1951 and 1975, but the 
basic spatial organization remains intact. The 1951 remodel, designed by Wick and Hilgers, 
was done in conjunction with the construction of the Commonwealth addition. It removed 
almost all finishes and moldings and installed acoustic ceiling tile and asphalt floor tile 
throughout the building. Most all the interior walls and ceilings were refinished with plaster 
and a number of the original solid doors were replaced with a hollow wooden core type. The 
centrally located stair tower, which was originally wood construction, was replaced in the 
remodel with steel stringers, risers and landings. The walls of the stair tower were replaced at 
that time with fire-resistant concrete block, and fire doors were added at each floor. 
The firm of Michael, Mann and Lakeman designed the 1975 remodel. In this remodel several 
interior partition walls were added and removed. Suspended ceilings were installed in rooms 
which had been reconfigured to hide alterations. The handicap ramp access that split the 
corridors on the second and third floors were also added in 1975. 
FIGURE 19: SUSPENDED CEILING, RM 201 FIGURE 20: TYPICAL RAMP 
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PART TWO - THE EDUCATION BUILDING (WEST WING) SINGER•31 
+ ASSESSMENT OF EXISTING CONDITIONS + 
Foundation - Education Building 
The foundation around the perimeter of the building is built of a four-foot high, cast-in-place, 
concrete stem wall with two ¾" reinforcing rods in the footing. It is tied to a slab-on-grade, 
which forms the substructure of the first floor. The slab-on-grade and stem walls have a layer 
of water proofing membrane that was imbedded into the concrete. This membrane is 
composed of five to six layers oftarpaper. No settlement cracks are visible in the accessible 
portions of the foundation walls. The foundation stem wall in the mechanical room under the 
stair vault has been cut through for pipe and conduit installation. At ground level on the 
exterior, the building is finished with a cement plaster or stucco over the concrete stem wall at 
one to two feet above finished grade. Some of the stucco is spalling off the foundation 
surface. The wood columns of the interior structural framing rest on cast-in-place concrete 
spread footings with ¾" reinforcing steel. 
FIGURE 21: STUCCO DETERIORATION FIGURE 22: EMBEDDED WATER PROOF MEMBRANE 
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PART TWO-THE EDUCATION BUILDING (WEST WING) SINGER• 32 
Entry Stairs - Education Building 
The two dogleg staircases and their respective landings on the front elevation are made of 
cast-in-place concrete. Small areas of the finish surface of the concrete are chipping away or 
cracking at the nosing of the risers, and what appears to be the original concrete finish of the 
stairs is visible beneath. The low brick walls with terracotta coping that follow the stair's 
configuration are experiencing some deterioration. The coping is damaged where it was 
manipulated from the previous configuration, as well as other minor chipped spots on the 
comers and arrises. Some of the coping has been filled with a cement grout. The set of terra 
cotta balusters and the terra cotta coping which fronts the upper landing also has some similar 
damage where the terra cotta body is exposed. The glaze does not only seem to be spalling, 
but rather the body is chipped by what appears to be mechanical abrasion. The brick walls that 
support the landing are experiencing some movement due to the expansion of a steel lintel, 
which is rusting above a ventilation opening in the stair vault. 
FIGURE 23: MORTAR DISINTERGRATION AT STAIR 
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PART TWO - THE EDUCATION BUILDING (WEST WlNG) 
SINGER•33 
FIGURE 25: SPALLED TERRA COTTA COPING AT STAIR 
FIGURE 26: GROUT PATCH or SPALLED TERRA COTTA. NOTE 
THE MORTAR DISINTERGRATION BElWEEN THE COPING PIECES. 
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PART TWO-THE EDUCATION BUILDING (WEST WING) SINGER•34 
Exterior Walls - Education Building 
The exterior walls of the structure employ clay brick in an unreinforced composite structural 
bearing wall construction. Striations on the bricks indicate they were manufactured using a 
stiff-mud process, where a column of clay is extruded through a steel die, and wire cut to the 
correct dimension. The first story measures 17 inches thick at four brick wythes, and the 
second and third story measure 13 inches at three wythes. The walls are composed of a 
Common Bond assembly. The first floor uses rowlock positioned bricks in every seventh bond 
course, and the upper two floors have header bricks in every sixth bond course. The brick 
joints are finished with a concave profile in a relatively hard mortar. Portions of the exterior 
wall surface, detailed earlier in the Physical Description section are embellished with finely 
crafted brickwork and unique, cream-color, glazed terracotta ornamentation with mineral-like 
speckles in the glazing that imitate stone. The terra cotta is composite with the brick masonry 
construction, set directly into the assembly with no evidence of metal anchoring systems 
visible on the building or in the original plans and specifications for the construction. 
Damage to the terra cotta ornament, which has exposed the porous body to the elements, 
includes chipping and broken comers. This damage is most visible in areas accessible to 
human activity around the entry. Moss and fems have taken root in the joints between the 
terra cotta above the large entry arch and in numerous places along the upper belt courses and 
the tops of the terra cotta pilaster capitals. 
The windows and doors in the exterior wall have two paired sets of steel angle iron that form 
the structural lintel above each opening. These are readily visible on the exterior and were 
protected with a green paint. The second and third floor windows employ lug sills made of 
brick in a row lock position. The sills of the first floor windows are weathered to shed 
moisture, with a cement stucco finish over the brick masonry. 
The wall plane is divided horizontally between each floor by continuous design elements. The 
first horizontal element is the cement stucco finish on the exposed portion of the concrete stem 
wall. The brick masonry begins with a soldier course above the foundation then continues 
with the Common Bond assembly. The first floor is separated from the second floor by a large 
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PART TWO - THE EDUCATION BUILDING (WEST WING) SINGER• 35 
composite belt course. This belt course is composed of several elements, beginning with a 
soldier course, then a corbelled rowlock course, then a weathered terracotta ledger, another 
soldier course and capped with a simple terra cotta band. This terra cotta band ties into the 
bases of decorative brick pilasters that appear at various locations on each fa;ade. The 
transition from the second floor to the third floor is much simpler, with a continuous course of 
soldier bricks forming the belt course. Finally, a large entablature springs directly from the top 
of the third story windows, composed of eight elements including both brick and terracotta. 
Starting from the bottom, these horizontal elements include a corbelled rowlock course; a 
corbelled soldier course; another rowlock course; a frieze composed of nine stretcher courses 
with inset quatrefoil terra-cotta panels centered above each window and pilaster; a molded 
terra-cotta band with an inset trefoil decoration; a soldier course; a rowlock course; and a 
weathered terra-cotta cap. Above this rises a brick parapet wall which surrounds the perimeter 
of the roofline. 
The continuous roof parapet varies in depth from 13 to 17 inches. The 33 foot span above 
the main entry, where the tile covered gable-end parapet was originally located, uses a cavity 
wall construction, connected with¾ inch tie rods at 4 feet on-center. The width of the cavity 
wall parapet is 4 foot 2 inches, measuring approximately 5 feet in height. The remainder of 
the roof parapet measures approximately 3 feet. The parapet has a large decorative terracotta 
coping with standing seamjoints. The terracotta coping on the parapet wall was cleaned and 
repointed during a 1992 re-roofing project. The mortar joints of the coping were sealed with 
approximately ¼ inch of latex sealant at that time. Chips in the terra cotta where the clay body 
was exposed were in-painted or painted over with an enamel-like paint to protect the body 
from water absorption. Sheet copper flashing protects the masonry around the interior of the 
parapet wall. 16 oz. standing seam copper flashing, formed and painted to imitate the historic 
terracotta coping, protects the top of the masonry wall above the cavity wall where the gable 
parapet had been removed. 
The brick assembly in the entablature and parapet level of the Education Building has a 
significant amount of moss and algae growth on almost all mortar joints. Upon inspection of 
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PART TWO - THE EDUCATION BUILDING (WEST WING) SINGER• 36 
the interior of the attic crawl space, which is relatively warm and dry space, the inside of the 
exterior walls were found to be dry. The coping on the parapet has a smooth, curved, outer 
profile, which has become stained dark green from algae growth where water seems to travel. 
The brick coursing underneath the coping has an accumulation of moss and algae growth also, 
as do many of the more protected areas and inside comers of the exterior wall. The mortar 
beneath the growth is soft and is easily removed, indicating that it is not well bonded to the 
brick or the terracotta. Clinging to the lower sections of the building are remnants of dead 
vines and organic debris. Photographic evidence held by the University Archives indicates 
that these vines once covered the building with a thick mat of growth. 
FIGURE 27: ACCUMULATION OF Moss AND VEGETATION 
ON THE ENTABLATURE ABOVE THE THIRD FLOOR 
FIGURE 28: A MOIST ENVIRONMENT IS NOT APPARENT 
BEHIND THE PROTECTION OF THE COPPER FLASHING ON 
THE PARAPET WALL 
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PART Two - THE EDUCATION BUILDING (WEST WING) 
SINGER• 37 
FIGURE 29: VEGETATION TAKING ROOT WHERE THE MORTAR HAS 
DISINTEGRATED DUE TO WATER INFILTRATION 
FIGUf!E 30: SPALLED TERRA COTTA COPING ON PARAPET 
FIGURE 31: SoME IN-PAINTED REPAIR WORK IS PEELING ON PARAPET 
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PART TWO - THE EDUCATION BUILDING (WEST WING) 
Roofing - Education Building 
The roofing system on the Education building was replaced in May of 1992. The older built-
up roofing membrane was removed down to the historic wood decking. The new roofing 
surface is flat with a fully adhered elastic sheet membrane over a new layer of 1 ½ inch rigid 
insulation and a thin moisture barrier. It appears that the slope of the roof was increased. The 
edges of the new membrane now extend above the bottom lip of the terracotta coping on the 
east parapet wall, where it is attached with a metal retaining bar fastened by lead expansion 
nails through the coping. The roof drains to the west toward an interior iron leader 
downspout. A new drain body and strainer were installed during the re-roof. 16 oz. Copper 
counter flashing covers the perimeter edges of the new roofing membrane. This counter 
flashing was tucked under the older sheet flashing on the roof ventilators and historic 
skylights. The original roof-ventilating penthouse is still in use, consisting of a wood structure 
with a flat metal roof covered with tar and louvered walls. The metal components and 
fasteners are showing signs of rust and the paint has weathered away, leaving the wood 
exposed. 
FIGURE 32: HISTORIC ROOF VENT "PENTHOUSE" FIGURE 33: LEAD ANCHOR NAILS INSTALLED 
THROUGH TERRA COTTA COPING TO HOLD THE ROOF 
MEMBRANE'S RETAINING BAR 
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PART TWO- THE EDUCATION BUILDING (WEST WING) SINGER• 39 
Fenestration: Windows, doors and skylights - Education Building 
The window jambs are set into the masonry wall, flush with the interior wall surface. All 
window jambs and sashes are constructed of wood with 6/6 or 9/9 configurations of the panes. 
All the windows appear original and the typical windows are operable on a horizontal pivoting 
mechanism. The components of the mechanism seem of the highest quality, cast from a 
corrosion-resistant brass alloy. The pivoting mechanism allows the windows to rotate 
backward from the top into a hopper configuration at the half open position and return flush 
with the jamb when in the fully opened position. A pin at the upper and lower edges of the 
sash rides in a track in the frame. This pin has caused some damage to the interior finish on 
several of the windows where it has popped out of the track. The typical locking mechanism 
is located on top of the lower sash and engages automatically when closed. Window jambs, 
sashes and other wooden trim are painted green. All windows available for inspection were 
serviceable. Each window inspected was experiencing a loss of paint and desiccation of the 
wooden sash, where the wood was deteriorating between the grains causing a rippled surface 
texture. 
Solid wood doors with three-quarter length lights have replaced the paired exterior doors on 
the east, west and south elevations. Operable transoms sit over the doors on the south 
elevation and the main entry doors on the east. The operable mechanism is functioning 
correctly. The transom ab~ve the entry on the west was bricked in, in 1975. The wooden 
surrounds and sashes appear original. 
There are five historic gabled skylights on the roof of different sizes. Each is 4 foot 6 inches 
wide. Two measure 7 feet, two measure 6 feet and one measures 8 feet in length. The 
skylights use metal framing and mullions with a sheet metal ridge cap. Some of the glass 
appears original, and some has been replaced. The glass is set into the mullions with a silicon 
sealant. According to project documents, the skylights were cleaned, resealed and repaired 
during the 1992 re-roofing. Water leakage was present on the inside of several skylights. 
According the maintenance worker in charge of the repair, the new caulking did not appear to 
be dried or cracking badly, but the leak was due to a spotty application of sealant. Finish nails 
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PART TWO - THE EDUCATION BUILDING (WEST WING) SINGER•40 
were pushed through holes in the metal mullions where rivets or screws historically would 
have been installed. New 16 oz. Copper flashing was installed around the skylights during the 
1992 re-roofing. The largest skylight measuring 14 feet by 6 ½ feet was removed and in-filled 
during the re-roofing. 
FIGURE: 34: VERTICALLY HINGED, WOODEN SASH WINDOWS WITH BRICK ARCHED HEADDERS. 
LOCATED ON THE SOUTH ELEYA  TION. 
FIGURE 35: GABLED SKYLIGHTS WITH OPERABLE VENT CAPS 
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PART Two - THE EDUCATION BUILDING (WEST WING) SINGER•41 
FIGURE 36: TYPICAL ROTA TING AWNING WINDOWS FIGURE 37: PAINT DETERIORATION AND DESICCATION OF 
WINDOW JAMB AND SASH. 
FIGURE 38: PAIRED DOORS WITH ¾" LENGTH LIGHT FIGURE 39: PAIRED SOLID WOOD DOORS AT SOUTH ENTRY 
AND TRANSOM AT MAIN ENTRY. WITH TRANSOM REMOVED. 
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PART TWO - THE EDUCATION BUILDING (WEST WING) SINGER•42 
Structure - Education Building 
The interior structure is not readily visible. The following description is based on the original 
construction drawings held by the Campus Architect at the Facility Services Office. 
The unreinforced brick masonry bearing walls around the perimeter of the building provide 
the entire lateral force-resisting system for the structure. These walls contain a large number 
of window openings, reducing the overall area of the wall surface. The interior framing is 
connected to the unreinforced masonry walls at the floor levels by metal straps connecting to 
the joists. 
The structural framing throughout the interior of the building is composed of heavy timber 
column and girder construction. The columns rest on five foot square spread footings, which 
have ¾" reinforcing rods in their base. There are six spread footings total. Column 
dimensions are 12x 12 at the first floor, 1Ox10 at the first and 8x8 at the third floors. The 
girders range in size from 12x16 to 12x20 depending on span. The girders attach to the 
columns with channel steel supported by 3x3 steel angles. A 14 inch long, ¾" diameter drift 
pin through a steel plate keeps the columns from shifting off their footings. The girders are 
set directly into the masonry wall on a steel plate. The floor diaphragms consist of lx straight 
sheathing with an overlay of tongue and groove flooring. Floor joists are 2x16 actual 
dimension at 12" and 16" centers, depending on location. The third floor ceiling joists are 
2x1 4 on 16" centers, and the roof joists are 2x6 on 14" centers. Bridging is common between 
all joists. 
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PART TWO- THE EDUCATION BUILDING (WEST WING) SINGER •43 
Interior Finishes - Education Building 
The building's floor plans are included in the page following this description for reference to 
individual rooms and the location of original walls and existing historic fabric. 
The first floor hall corridors are double loaded, crossing at the central stairs. Two pairs of 
exterior doors access the hallways at the south and the west. The north side of the building 
connects to the Commonwealth addition on the first floor, with two doors accessing room 107 
and 108. The first floor is dedicated to classroom spaces as it was historically, but several of 
the traditionally small classrooms have had their dividing walls removed to create larger 
spaces. The subdivided classrooms include 102, 104, 107 and 108. The classrooms that 
remain intact include rooms 101 and 111. The two bathrooms in 106 and 110, and the 
mechanical room in 112 also remain unchanged dimensionally. Most historic interior finishes 
have been removed from the first floor. Elements remaining include two historic blackboards 
with chalk rails located in room 101 and 102, and the closet doors appear original in the 
classrooms and on the storage room at the base of the stair. The mechanical room was left 
unfinished. In the mechanical room, board form marks and cold joints are visible in the 
concrete on the underside of the exterior stair. Off the mechanical room, under the stairs, is a 
vault-like space where the original terracotta roof parapet ornament and tile had been stored 
for 48 years. 
Currently, the second floor is dedicated to office spaces and a conference room. There is one 
women's lavatory in room 211. All the rooms on the second floor essentially remain intact. 
Spatial alterations include the enclosure of a small space off corridor H201 and the extension 
of a wall in room 209A . Hallway H212 has been split past the stairwell, and a handicap ramp 
has been added on the left side of the hall with stairs on the right side, accessing the 
Commonwealth addition. Circulation on the second floor follows the L-shape plan of the 
building with a double loaded hallway. The hallway begins from the main entry foyer with a 
set of five steps up, continues straight then doglegs right (north) at the central stair. 
Sprinkler pipes and suspended fluorescent fixtures follow the hallways. Ceiling, wall and 
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PART TWO-THE EDUCATION BUILDING (WEST WING) SINGER•44 
floor finishes are similar to the first floor in all the spaces except room 201 and 209, which are 
carpeted and room 201 has cedar wall paneling. 
The Third floor houses several offices including Career Services and the Lundquist School of 
Business Graduate Office. This floor has been altered more significantly than the lower floors 
but the circulation and spatial organization of the rooms are close to their original 
configuration. The rooms left intact include 311,312,313,314,316 and 316. Most all of the 
interior finishes have been removed. The existing finishes are similar to the lower floors. The 
north-end of the L-shaped hallway is similar to that of the second floor, double loaded and 
split with a handicap ramp to the Commonwealth. Five skylights illuminate the third floor. 
One skylight is located above hallway H312, and another is located next to it, above room 
312. One large skylight sits over the stair well, one smaller skylight is located over room 307, 
and one is partially obstructed over the lobby area outside the Graduate Office. The 
Graduate Office in room 300, which originally housed the Law Library, had its skylight 
removed in 1992 when the roof was replaced. The Graduate Office used to be a large space 
but has since been split up into several rooms. The three arched windows above the main 
entry on the exterior fayade are split on the interior of this space by a dividing wall and a 
suspended ceiling shortens the room to 12 feet from the original 16 ½ feet. The historic 
picture molding, plaster cove ceiling and mezzanine were removed from this large third floor 
space in the 1951 alteration. 
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PART TWO - THE EDUCATION BUILDING (WEST WING) 
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FIGURE 40:FIRST FLOOR EDUCATION BUILDING FIGURE 41 : SECOND FLOOR EDUCATION BLDG. 
Red Lines indicate location of 
original walls and extant historic 
finishes. 
FIGURE 42: THIRD FLOOR EDUCATION BUILDING 
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PART TWO - THE EDUCATION BUILDING (WEST WING) SINGER• 46 
+CONSERVATION GOALS + 
The Education Building and Commerce Hall were among the first major architectural 
expressions to shape the University of Oregon campus in the twentieth century. They set a 
high standard for quality in construction on the campus and helped to establish strong ties 
between the School of Architecture and the planning and construction activities on the 
campus. Given their status of eligibility for listing on the National Register based on issues of 
integrity and the direct association with Ellis Fuller Lawrence, it is recommended that 
treatment options for these buildings be carefully evaluated based on long-range conservation 
goals. The conservation goals for both the Education Building and Commerce Hall should be 
broad-based. This is because the building's components exist today in various states ofrepair 
due to their alterations over the past eighty to ninety years. Therefore, the author believes it 
would be prudent to apply the Secretary oflnterior's Standard for Rehabilitation. 
Repabilitation is defined as "the act or process of making possible a compatible use for a 
property through repair, alterations, and additions while preserving those portions or features 
which convey its historical, cultural, or architectural values." A Rehabilitation standard 
fosters a broad-based application of various degrees of conservation. This will allow for the 
improvement of the buildings in order to meet the changing needs of the university, while 
honoring the historic integrity of the campus's architectural legacy. 
An overall examination of the problems that the stewards of the Education Building must 
manage has revealed four primary areas of concern. Specific conservation goals are 
recommended for the following areas: 
1) Reinstatement of missing architectural elements 
The building's main entry facades have had several signature elements of Ellis Lawrence's 
original design removed including: 
• The Mediterranean style gable-end roof parapet 
• The cascading corbelled arches below the parapet 
• The original entry stair and landing configuration 
• The ornamental lamps that flanked the main entry 
• The inset terra cotta signage that read, "EDUCATION" 
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PART TWO - THE EDUCATION BUILDING (WEST WING) SINGER• 47 
These elements clearly represent Lawrence's great talent in manipulating eclectic historic 
detail, and his specific decisions about how to effectively address the north end of the 
Memorial Quadrangle. The high caliber of their craftsmanship is well understood, and 
accurate documentation and samples exist which will enable the reconstruction and replication 
of these missing features. It is recommended that the Secretary of the Interiors Standards for 
Reconstruction be adhered to when crafting the specifications for this section of the work. 
2) Conservation and care of the existing exterior fabric 
Most of the exterior of the Education Building remains nearly as built. Conservation goals 
relating to the care of the exterior of the building should make every attempt to preserve in 
perpetuity the fabric of the historic building's envelope in accordance with the Secretary of 
Interior's Standards. 
3) Conservation and care of the existing interior fabric 
M~ch of the interior of the Education Building has been altered or covered over by subsequent 
alterations. There are several salient historic characteristics identified in the following 
assessment that remain intact within the interior spaces. Any rehabilitation efforts within the 
building should focus on the goal of preserving historic fabric and spatial integrity wherever 
possible. However, the Standards for Rehabilitation recognize the building's continued use 
must take into account the changing needs of the university. Therefore, any alteration of the 
interior spaces should preserve existing fabric where possible and respectfully address any 
changes that might impact it. 
4) Sensitive design of the proposed new addition 
The 1951 addition has impacted the Education Building architecturally and has affected the 
character of the site. Conservation goals relating to the design of a proposed new addition 
should address the historic planning efforts of Ellis Lawrence and limit any further impact to 
the building's architectural character and fabric. A thorough examination of the design issues 
relating to the new addition and recommendations are included in Appendix A of this report. 
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PART TWO- THE EDUCATION BUILDING (WEST WING) SINGER•48 
+EVALUATION OF EXISTING CONDITIONS + 
Foundation - Education Building 
The foundation of the Education building consists of a concrete reinforced stem wall and a 
slab on grade with an embedded waterproof membrane. It appears in good condition. No 
significant cracks are visible in the stem wall foundation around the perimeter of the building. 
However, several pipes have been run through the foundation wall that supports the main 
exterior stair. This does not seem to be causing any problems at the present time, but it should 
be monitored for settlement and water leakage. Because the building's first floor sits below 
grade, it is important to delimit or closely monitor any changes that would compromise the 
waterproofing membrane that was embedded in the stem walls and slab-on-grade. 
At,ground level, the building's cement plaster or stucco over the concrete stem wall on the 
exterior is spalling off the foundation surface in small, localized spots. The stucco is 
susceptible to water penetration especially given its location at the bottom of the wall. The 
stucco should be repaired before any further penetration and freeze thaw cycles can occur. 
Cracks should be filled and missing portions built up with a stucco mixture that matches the 
texture and color of the original material. An acrylic bonder should be applied to the 
subsurface before patching. 
Entry Stairs - Education Building 
The stairs are in poor to fair condition with several areas in need of attention. The alteration 
of the stair in 1951 likely initiated several of the current problems. Water, moss and algae 
growth have substantially deteriorated the head joints in the mortar between almost all of the 
terracotta coping pieces. The mortar joints between the intact terracotta coping pieces need 
to be cleaned and the pieces reset. Careful attention should be paid to the mortar mix to 
provide a good bond between the coping pieces. This is a key issue because the glaze on the 
terra cotta is minimally absorptive, precluding a good bond. 
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PART TWO - THE EDUCATION BUILDING (WEST WING} SINGER•49 
The coping is spalled and chipped. Most of the damage is along the comers of the pieces 
where they may have been set down when the stair was dissembled and reconfigured in 1951. 
Where the coping is damaged and the clay body is exposed, water can easily be absorbed 
causing further damage. The damage is severe enough in some localized spots that 
replacement is a possible option. The set of terra cotta balusters that front the upper landing 
are experiencing similar problems. This is a highly trafficked area and mechanical abrasion of 
the coping and the balusters is an ongoing problem. Some of the coping has been filled or 
patched with a cement grout. This is a solution that is not easily reversible. In order to halt 
the absorption of water in a non-intrusive way, a cold glaze or in-painting can be applied to 
areas of limited damage. Cold glazing in-paints available on the market today include acrylic 
based and urethane based products. In testing done at the Columbia University by Ricardo 
Viera in 1992, it was found that acrylic based products provided a better bond to the slick 
surfaces of the glaze, which surround the rougher surface of the spall. 
The brick walls flanking the stairs are experiencing some movement due to the rusting and 
expansion of the steel lintels that span the ventilation opening in the stair vault. The 
ventilation of the building through the stair vault causes high hu.'llidity levels and this problem 
will continue if not treated. These lintels must be removed before any further damage occurs 
to areas above in the upper landing. The new lintels should be painted with a protective epoxy 
coating or rust inhibitor. 
The bricks walls surrounding the stair are in fair condition because water infiltration and 
movement have compromised their mortar joints. Some areas have no mortar remaining. 
These walls may need to be partially rebuilt or have their mortar replaced as a temporary fix. 
HISTORIC STRUCTURES REPORT 
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PART TWO - THE EDUCATION BUILDING (WEST WING) SINGER• 50 
Exterior Walls - Education Building 
The unreinforced brick masonry bearing walls of the Education building are generally in good 
condition. There is no visible leakage on any of the interior wall surfaces. There are several 
issues though, which require attention in the near future. The area of greatest concern is the 
upper portion of the wall, including the entablature and parapet above the third story windows. 
The mortar joints in the lower portions of the building are intact and still relatively hard. The 
mortar in the upper portion of the building however, is soft and the bond between the bricks is 
near to being compromised. In the area of the upper portion of the building where moisture 
and weathering is more commonly a problem, a significant amount of moss and algae growth 
has obscured the mortar joints, holding a moist environment against them continually. Other 
problem spots include corbelled areas and inside comers of the building's envelope where a 
more protected environment has allowed organic growth to accumulate. It is recommended at 
this time that the upper portion of the building be cleaned and repointed down to the tops of 
th~ third story windows. Vines that once covered the lower areas of the building may have 
compromised the mortar in the past. Selective re-pointing should also occur in areas that 
appear soft. Other problematic areas include the head joints in the rowlock windowsills, and 
the terra cotta coping and belt courses, which have difficultly retaining a good bond due to 
their glazed surfaces. 
The large terra cotta coping pieces on the parapet wall were cleaned and repointed in 1992, 
but they will soon be in need of attention again. The mortar joints of the coping were sealed 
with approximately ¼ inch of latex sealant at that time. The sealant appears in good 
condition, but it will need to be replaced sometime in the next five to ten years to avoid 
damage to the repointed mortar joints and the wall below. The buildup of algae on the 
underside of the coping needs to be cleaned to prevent further growth and help reestablish the 
drip edge in order to divert water from the wall surface. Chips in the terra cotta coping along 
the parapet, which were in-painted with an enamel-like paint, are peeling. These areas need to 
be cleaned and in-painted again. Above the main entry on the west elevation, the copper 
coping which protects the cavity wall is in good condition, but counter flashing around the 
coping is diverting water toward the building. 
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PART TWO - THE EDUCATION BUILDING (WEST WING) SINGER• 51 
The 1 to 2 inch holes on the north side of the east elevation, where the historic fire escape was 
connected to the building have not been filled. The steel anchor pins look as thought they 
have been cut and left in place. The holes should be filled with colored mortar and the pins 
removed if possible or left in place and protected from corrosion if the fire escape is not to be 
reinstated. 
The terra cotta ornament which is composite with the brick masonry wall assembly is in 
excellent condition, though it needs to be cleaned and repointed in several areas. These areas 
are associated with places where water collects and stimulates organic growth. Fems and 
moss have take root in the joints between the terra cotta where the mortar has popped out. 
There is no evidence of a metal anchoring system for the terra cotta. This is typically the 
major cause of failure with this type of material when water has penetrated the system. The 
terra cotta ornament of the Education Building is a signature material of the building' s 
character and must not be altered. It is imperative that the terra cotta ornament not have its 
protective glaze or the clay body compromised by efforts to reinforce it within the masonry 
wall assembly by epoxy dowels or other intrusive elements. It is worthwhile economically to 
extend further tests examining the stability of the terra cotta within the masonry assembly. 
Should these tests show instability, methods of anchoring from the back into the masonry-
filled core of the pieces should be investigated. All the terra cotta units produced for this 
building have webbing in ~heir hollow backside with punched holes to provide anchoring and 
stiffness. 
The window and door openings in the exterior walls have two paired sets of steel angle iron 
that form their structural lintels. Upon inspection from the ground, the lintels seem in good 
repair. Rusting and expansion could cause serious problems in the future, and it is 
recommended that the window and door lintels be periodically monitored for signs of distress, 
and regularly repainted. 
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p ART Two - THE EDUCATION BUILDING (WEST WING) SINGER• 52 
Roofing - Education Building 
The roofing system on the Education building was replaced in May of 1992. The new 
roofing surface is well maintained and appears to be in excellent condition. The slope of the 
rooflooks as thought it might have been increased above the old wood decking. It is difficult 
to establish this based on the historic sectional drawings held by Facility Services. There is no 
evidence of this on the inside attic space, where the original pony walls supporting the roof are 
intact. 
There is some concern about the attachment of the new roofing surface to the bottom lip of the 
terra cotta coping. Drilling through the coping to insert lead expansion fasteners has 
compromised the protective glazing of the terracotta. This may not be a problem now, but 
failure of the terracotta body at these points will compromise the roof membranes' seal in the 
future. The system should be left intact and any future roof repair should note this potential 
failure of the fastening system. 
The 16 oz. copper counter flashing, which protects the perimeter edges of the new roofing 
membrane, the roof ventilating penthouse, and the historic skylights, is in good condition. 
The sheet copper flashing around the inside of the parapet wall was slightly damaged when 
the counter flashing was installed. There is concern that the sheet flashing might not allow the 
brick parapet to breath properly and may be causing excessive moisture buildup behind it. It 
is difficult to establish this using non-destructive means. It is recommended that the rivets be 
drilled out in several sections in order to make and accurate assessment and evaluation for 
recommended treatment. 
The historic roof-ventilating penthouse is in poor to fair condition. The wood louvers are 
desiccated and have lost paint. The galvanized nails are showing signs of corrosion, as is the 
terne-plate metal roof flashing. This penthouse is repairable and efforts should be taken to 
maintain its effectiveness. The wood components should be sanded down and painted with an 
alkyd oil primer and latex topcoat. The fasteners should be replaced with deck screws and the 
roof flashing replaced with traditional terne-plate flashing. 
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PART Two- THE EDUCATION BUILDING (WEST WING) SINGER• 53 
Fenestration: windows, doors and skylights - Education Building 
All windows that were accessible to the author for inspection were in fair to good, serviceable 
condition. Items inspected include sashes, sills, glass and glazing, locks and operable 
mechanisms. It is recommended that a complete inspection survey be conducted that includes 
each window. The inspection should provide a thorough examination of the wooden sash for 
loss of paint, rot, and proper sealant. The lintels should be inspected for corrosion. The 
operating mechanisms should be checked to insure that they ride correctly in their track. The 
replacement or repair of the interior window-stay, if necessary, will eliminate the damage to 
the interior trim caused by the window sash mechanism not riding correctly. The glazing 
should not be missing or loose which could allow water penetration. All the locking 
mechanisms should function with ease. If this is not the case, some lubricate should be 
applied. The window jambs are set into the masonry wall, flush with the interior wall surface. 
There should be no sign of moisture around the interior trim. If there is, check the exterior 
se~lant and apply new caulk to the area once it has been properly prepped. 
Solid wood doors with a three-quarter length light have replaced the paired exterior doors on 
the east, west, and south elevations. These are in good condition. Their historic operable 
transoms appear in good condition and should be periodically inspected using the 
recommendations above. 
The five historic gabled skylights on the roof are in fair to good condition. The skylights were 
cleaned, resealed and repaired during the 1992 re-roofing. The skylights use metal framing 
and mullions with a sheet metal ridge cap, which covers an operable louver. The louvers are 
functioning. Most of the glass appears original although some has been replaced with new 
wire reinforced obscure panes. The silicon sealant which holds the panes is in good condition, 
but recent repairs in 1999 indicated that there might be a need for cleaning and new sealant 
soon. At the time of the repair, water leakage was present on the inside of the skylight above 
the lobby area outside the Graduate Office. According to the maintenance worker in charge of 
the repair, the new caulking did not appear to be dried or cracking badly, but the leak was due 
to a spotty application of sealant. 
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p ART Two - THE EDUCATION BUILDING (WEST WING) SINGER•54 
Structure - Education Building 
The author does not have the expertise to evaluate the structural integrity of the building. 
However, Degenkolb engineering firm was contracted by the university to evaluate the 
building and propose a scheme to seismically upgrade the building to meet Zone 3 
requirements of the Uniform Building Code. The author will therefore evaluate the 
recommendations for the seismic upgrade scheme based on its sensitivity to the Secretary of 
Interior's Standards for Rehabilitation. 
Degenkolb engineers proposed four structural and one nonstructural component in their 
seismic strengthening scheme including: 
I. Vertical lateral elements 
II. Foundations 
III. Diaphragms 
IV. Collectors 
' V. Braces and terra cotta anchors 
I & II Vertical lateral elements and foundations: 
The incorporation of new vertical lateral elements and new foundation components are 
proposed in two areas. The first area is the interior stairwell. It is proposed that the stairwell 
be moved to the northwest comer intersection of the unreinforced brick masonry wall. The 
new stairwell would be constructed of 8-inch cast-in-place reinforced concrete and rest on 
footings at bedrock. The s·econd proposal calls for a 6-inch layer of shotcrete to be applied to 
four large piers on the west elevation and across the middle-third of the south elevation on the 
interior of the first and second floors. The shotcrete layer would be epoxy doweled to the 
existing ·masonry at 24 inch centers in both directions. The new composite wall would bear 
on new footings at bedrock. 
There are several issues associated with the proposed scheme that should be examined. First, 
the addition of shotcrete is non-reversible. However, it is difficult to up-grade an unreinforced 
masonry building without impacting the historic fabric. Other than clumsily attaching a steel 
frame, one of the only other options is to drill and grout-in vertical steel reinforcement down 
the full height of the wall. This is cost prohibitive and although not visible, it is extremely 
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PART Two - THE EDUCATION B UILDING (WEST WING} SINGER• 55 
intrusive. The area proposed for the application is limited to 6 inches on several piers and a 
section of wall, all restricted to interior surfaces. Therefore, the author feels that the proposal 
is primarily sensitive to the Rehabilitation Standards, but adjustments could.b e investigated 
for the application of the shotcrete. The engineer should be requested to calculate the option 
to hold back the shotcrete at least two inches from wall edges at window and door locations. 
This will help retain the architectural expression of the walls as viewed from the interior and 
exterior of these spaces. Perhaps this loss of surface area could be made up with a minimal 
increase in the thickness of the application. 
Secondly, the relocation of the stairwell is a bit problematic. Although the stairs and the walls 
were replaced in 1951 , the spatial integrity of the stairwell and the room which surround it on 
all three floors are intact. There is also an existing historic skylight centered over the 
stairwell. Perhaps some additional planning could avoid the relocation, but if it is absolutely 
necessary to improve life-safety issues, it could be deemed sensitive to the preservation effort. 
Regarding the foundation scheme, it is understandable to compromise the slab-on-grade and 
the stem wall foundations in the pursuit of a seismic up-grade. There are water table issues to 
manage and the waterproofing membrane of the original foundation will need to be addressed 
properly. 
III. Diaphragms: 
There are three components proposed to improve the performance of the diaphragms in the 
building: First, a layer of plywood would be added to each floor joist system, including the 
ceiling joists above the third floor in order to strengthen the diaphragms. Second, epoxy 
anchors would be bolted through the existing wood ledgers and into the existing masonry 
walls for shear transfer to the diaphragm. Third, steel rods would be drilled and epoxied 
either into or through the historic masonry walls to secure them to the joists. The installation 
of plywood sheathing sounds unintrusive at first, but the proposal calls for the removal of the 
entire historic 2x6 roof system including the decking, the roof joists, and the pony walls. 
Perhaps the sheathing could be added to the bottom of the ceiling joists instead, or more 
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PART Two - THE EOUCAT ION BUILDING (WEST WING) SINGER• 56 
blocking could be added between the joists. This application on the third floor joists is highly 
intrusive and perhaps avoidable. 
With regard to epoxy anchoring into the historic unreinforced masonry wall at the floor levels 
around the perimeter of the building, the Secretary' s Standards take no exception with strictly 
interior applications that transfer the sheer from the diaphragm to the wall. However, the 
introduction of steel rods through the masonry in order to attach the diaphragm to the joists, 
is not a sensitive measure and should be avoided. 
IV. Collectors: 
The collector elements consist of steel channel, which would be attached to the new concrete 
stairwell and run from one wall of the building across to the other. They are meant to drag 
shear forces to the strengthened walls. Based on the drawings included in the proposal, the 
steel channel seems to be hidden in the floor joists and the anchoring does not penetrate the 
outer wall. This seems to be a sensitively designed solution. 
V. Braces and terra cotta anchors (nonstructural) 
Steel braces are proposed to fasten the roof parapet to the roof diaphragm around the 
perimeter of the building at four feet on-center. Preservation Standards would recommend 
that the braces not be visible from the ground, notably from the Memorial Quadrangle. The 
braces are a solution, which would enable the original gabled parapet with terra cotta 
ornament to be reintroduced above the main entry. The nonstructural recommendations also 
refer to the introduction of helical or epoxy anchors to tie back the terracotta ornament at 
strategic locations on the buildings fa~ade and parapet. It would not be prudent or sensitive 
to the Secretary's Standards to compromise the glazing or the clay body of the terracotta 
ornament. The terra cotta was installed as a composite component within the masonry walls. 
It was manufactured with webbing for the purpose of stiffening and anchorage. The engineer 
should investigate this installation further for adequate integrity regarding seismic stability. 
The webbing straps of the terra cotta should be used for any precautionary nonstructural 
solutions wherever possible. 
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p ART Two - THE EDUCATION BUILDING (WEST WING) SINGER• 57 
The diagrams below depict several components of the seismic retrofitting scheme. 
- ----,-
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S1ICON~D  JUN ® 
GaanKA-1Lwaff-WDfC 
FIGURE 43: PROPOSED SEISMIC UPGRADING SCHEME. 
DEGENKOLB ENGINEERS, PORTLAND 
l'IGUUf 
SOUIHIU\".\'1'1011 
CILllllT-IIAU.Wll-fWING 
FIGURE 44: SHOTCRETE PROPOSAL ON SOUTH ELEVATION. 
DEGENKOLB ENGINEERS, PORTLAND 
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PART Two- THE EDUCATION BUILDING (WEST WING) SINGER• 58 
Interior Finishes - Education Building 
The Education Building retains a high degree of spatial integrity. Most of its rooms are intact 
dimensionally, and the location of the existing walls primarily follow the 1915 plans laid out 
by Ellis Lawrence. The most tangible remnant of the 1915 design is the spatial organization 
of rooms. These spatial dimensions should be honored by any rehabilitation efforts. The 
illustration that follow this section identifies the location of the historic wall placements and 
areas where extant interior finishes may be found. Areas of increased concern include the 
main entry and hallway on the second floor, and the Lundquist School of Business Graduate 
Office on the third floor. •T hese spaces have undergone several alterations and are important 
to the buildings interior character. Using Lawrence's original plans, which are held by the 
University Architect's Office, the future rehabilitation of these spaces could remedy these 
alterations with relative ease. 
There are several historic interior finish elements that were found to be in good, serviceable 
condition. These elements include most of the bathroom fixtures and bathroom stalls, several 
blackboards with chalk rails on the first floor, and several closet doors found throughout the 
building. These elements should be retained and incorporated into the rehabilitation of the 
interior of the buildings if it does not necessarily preclude a new use for the interior spaces. It 
was hard to ascertain the historic status of many of the door surrounds in the building, but the 
author believes the key to any further investigation is held in the hinge hardware. 
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pA RT Two - THE EDUCATION BUILDING (WEST WING) SINGER• 59 
FIGURE 45: MAIN ENTRY FOYER AT SECOND FLOOR FIGURE 46: TYPICAL HINGE 
FIGURE 47: HISTORIC BLACKBOARDS WITH CHALK RAILS FIGURE 48: ORIGINAL TOILET FIXTURE 
FIGURE 49: ORIGINAL SINK FIXTURE FIGURE 50: ORIGINAL 'STANDARD' UNIRALS 
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PART Two - THE EDUCAT !ON BUILDING (WEST WING} SINGER• 60 
+SUMMARY OF RECOMMENDATIONS + 
This section of the report will briefly summarize the recommendations for each of the 
building's components. The recommendations presented below reflect the author's 
interpretation of what would be the most appropriate treatment, given the conservation goal of 
preserving or reinstating character defining architectural features in accordance with the 
Secretary oflnterior's Standards. 
Foundation - Education Building 
a) The foundation stem wall under the main exterior stair should be monitored for 
settlement and water leakage where the pipe run has compromised the wall. 
b) The cement plaster or stucco around the base of the building should be repaired before 
any further penetration and freeze thaw cycles can occur. Cracks should be filled and 
missing portions built up with a stucco mixture that matches the texture and color of 
the original material. An acrylic bonder should be applied to the subsurface before 
patching. See Appendix F - Preservation Brief 18. 
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PART Two - THE EDUCATION BUILDING (WEST WING) SINGER•61 
Entry Stairs - Education Building 
a) The original configuration of the entry stairs and the landings of the Education 
Building should be restored. The stairs defined Lawrence's carefully planned entry 
procession into the building, affording important, otherwise unavailable views of the 
Memorial Quadrangle from the large elevated landings. 
b) The mortar joints between the terra cotta coping pieces need to be cleaned and the 
pieces reset. Careful attention should be paid to the mortar mix to provide a good 
bond between the coping pieces. This is a key issue because the glaze on the terra 
cotta is minimally absorptive, precluding a good bond. A water sealant should be 
applied to the vertical head joints periodically. See appendix F - Preservation Brief2. 
c~  The chipped and spalled coping and terra cotta balusters need to be treated to halt their 
exposure to the moist environment. An acrylic based cold glaze or in-painting should 
be applied to areas of limited damage. Severely damaged pieces should be replaced 
in-kind. See Appendix F - Preservation Brief7. 
d) The bricks walls that support the landings need to be partially rebuilt in order to 
replace the corroding and expanding steel angle lintels. Many of the joints in the wall 
must have their mortar replaced or repointed. The mortar should be softer than the 
brick and match the absorptive quality of the brick to ensure a good bond. 
e) The new lintels should be painted with a protective epoxy coating or rust inhibitor. 
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p ART Two - THE EDUCATION BUILDING (WEST WING) SINGER• 62 
Exterior Walls - Education Building 
a) It is recommended at this time that the upper portion of the building be cleaned and 
repointed down to the tops of the third story windows. Vines that once covered the 
lower floors of the building may have affected the mortar joints in the past and should 
be removed. See Appendix F - Preservation Brief 2, 6 and 7. 
b) A full repointing should be considered for this building in the future if economically 
possible. As a temporary measure, selective re-pointing should occur in areas of the 
lower portion of the building that appear to be failing. Problematic areas include the 
head joints in the rowlock windowsills, and the terra cotta coping and belt courses 
which have difficultly retaining a good bond due to their glazed surfaces. 
c) The build-up of algae on the underside of the parapet coping needs to be cleaned to 
prevent further growth and help re-establish the drip edge in order to divert water from 
the wall surface. This will serve to avoid damage to the newly repointed mortar joints. 
d) Chips in the terra cotta coping along the parapet, which were in-painted with an 
enamel-like paint, are peeling. These areas need to be cleaned and in-painted properly. 
e) Above the main entry on the west elevation, the copper coping that protects the cavity 
wall is in good condition, but counter flashing around the coping is diverting water 
toward the building. This area needs to be re-flashed correctly. See Appendix F -
Preservation Brief 39. 
f) The 1 to 2 inch holes on the north side of the east elevation should be filled with 
colored mortar and the pins removed if possible or left in place and protected from 
corrosion if the fire escape is not to be reinstated. 
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PART Two - THE EDUCATION BUILDING (WEST WING) SINGER• 63 
Exterior Walls Continued- Education Building 
g) It is imperative that the terracotta ornament not have its protective glaze or the clay 
body compromised by efforts to reinforce it within the masonry wall assembly by 
epoxy dowels or other intrusive elements. Methods of anchoring from the back should 
be investigated. 
h) The window and door lintels need to be periodically monitored for signs of distress, 
and regularly repainted. 
i) The terra cotta panel signage above the main entry should be replicated. This signage 
should not be construed as misleading but rather as interpretive. 
fr The high-pressure sodium lamps that flank the entry should be removed. New fixtures 
should be replicated using photographic evidence of the historic lanterns. All other 
lighting fixtures should be consistent in style yet not misrepresent themselves as 
historic. The new fixtures should use the original mounting holes and not further 
compromise the building envelope. 
k) The gable-end parapet wall should be reinstated following the Secretary oflnterior's 
Standards for Reconstruction. The cascading corbelled arches below the parapet 
should be reconstructed as part of this work. Replacement tiles should be crafted to 
match the size and color of the originals. The roof pitch should be duplicated, and any 
additional seismic stabilization efforts should be designed in a manner sensitive to the 
integrity of the masonry wall. See Appendix F - Preservation Briefs 7 & 30. 
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p ART Two - THE EDUCATION BUILDING (WEST WING) SINGER•64 
Roofing - Education Building 
a) The attachment of the new roofing membrane to the bottom lip of the terracotta 
coping should be left intact and any future roof repair should note the potential failure 
of the fastening system. Drilling through the coping to insert lead expansion fasteners 
must be avoided during future repairs or installation. See Appendix F - Preservation 
Brief 4. 
b) The sheet copper flashing around the inside of the parapet wall might not allow the 
brick parapet to breath properly and may be causing excessive moisture buildup behind 
it. Therefore, it is recommended that the rivets be drilled out in several sections in 
order to make and accurate assessment and evaluation for recommended treatment. 
See Appendix F- Preservation Brief 39. 
c) The roof-ventilating penthouse is an important historic mechanical component of the 
building and should be maintained properly. The wood components should be sanded 
down and painted with an alkyd oil primer and latex topcoat. The fasteners should be 
replaced with deck screws and the roof flashing replaced with traditional teme-plate 
flashing. See Appendix F - Preservation Brief l O. 
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p ART Two- THE EDUCATION BUILDING (WEST WING) SINGER• 65 
Fenestration: windows. doors and skylights - Education Building 
a) The scope of this report only provided for a preliminary inspection of a handful of 
windows and doors. Therefore, it is recommended that a complete inspection be given 
to every opening in the building's envelope. Inspections should examine the wooden 
sashes, the lintels, the glass and glazing, the operable mechanisms and the locking 
mechanisms. A window and door schedule should be assembled to document the 
condition of each of these elements in order to establish specific problems and overall 
patterns of deterioration. Problems to identify include water penetration, corrosion, 
paint failure, rot and broken parts or mechanisms. Sensitive, non-intrusive solutions, 
which meet the Secretary of the Interior's Standards for Preservation, should be used in 
every repair. See Appendix F - Preservation Brief9 and 24. 
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PART TWO-THE EDUCATION BUILDING (WEST WING) SINGER•66 
Structure - Education Building 
a) The application of shotcrete to the interior of the unreinforced masonry wall should be 
held back the at least one half wythe from wall edges at window and door locations to 
retain the architectural character of the wall plane. Examine an engineered solution. 
See Appendix F - Preservation Brief 41. 
b) A void the relocation of the stairwell in order to maintain the spatial integrity of the 
original floor plans. Examine other engineered solutions. 
c) A void the removal of the original 2x6 roof structure for the installation of the third 
floor's diaphragm. If possible, place the sheathing that forms the diaphragm on the 
bottom side of the third floor ceiling joists or install blocking from below. 
d) Do not install steel rods or epoxy dowels through the exterior unreinforced brick 
masonry walls. Epoxy dowels are acceptable on the inside of the masonry walls, so 
long as they do not break the exterior surface. 
e) The installations of the shear collector elements are recommended as presented in the 
original proposal. 
f) Design the parapet wall-bracing system to be minimally intrusive to the unreinforced 
brick masonry and hide it below the parapet level. 
g) Do not compromise the glaze surface or the body of the terra cotta pieces with 
intrusive doweling. Reinforce the terracotta with new mortar. 
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p ART Two - THE EDUCATION BUILDING (WEST WING) SINGER• 67 
Interior Finishes - Education Building 
a) Any rehabilitation plans should respect the high degree of spatial integrity that the 
building has retained over the past 85 years. New walls should not radically alter the 
circulation or the orientation of the spaces. See Appendix F - Preservation Brief 18. 
b) Restoration of the main entry on the second floor and the Lundquist School of 
Business Graduate Office on the third floor should be considered during the design 
phases of future rehabilitation projects. Lawrence's original plan drawings for the 
Education Building delineate the character defining elements of these historically 
prominent spaces, and can be easily reproduced. 
c) The historic bathroom fixtures should be maintained and incorporated into any 
rehabilitation project planned for the Education Building. 
d) The historic blackboard and chalk rails should remain in-situ and not relocated or 
replaced. 
e) Where feasible, all historic hardware, doors, and what appear to be historic door and 
window surrounds, should be retained and preserved in good working order. 
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PART THREE - COMMERCE HALL (EAST WING) SINGER• 68 
PART THREE 
COMMERCE HALL (EAST WING) 
+ PHYSICAL DESCRIPTION 
+ CHRONOLOGY OF ALT ERAT IONS 
+ INTERIOR DESCRIPTIONS AND ALT ERA TIONS 
+ ASSESSMENT OF EXISTING CONDITIONS 
+ CONSERVATION GOALS 
+ Ev ALUA TION OF EXISTING CONDITIONS 
+ RECOMMENDATIONS FOR TREATMENT 
INTRODUCTION 
This section begins with a describing of the location and orientation of the building, and the 
general style and plan shape. The physical description contains a detailed description of each 
cardinal elevation. The alterations to the exterior of the building will then be presented in 
chronological order. A description of the alterations to the building' s interior spaces follows. 
The Assessment of Existing Conditions will break down the building by component 
including, foundation, entry stairs, exterior walls, fenestration, structure, and interior finishes. 
Conservation goals ranging from specific to broad-based issues are presented and defined 
next. Evaluations and Recommendations for Treatment for each of the building components 
are addressed with regard to the outlined conservation goals. 
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PART THREE - COMMERCE HALL (EAST WING) SINGER•69 
+ PHYSICAL DESCRIPTION + 
General Location 
Commerce Hall is located at the North end of the Memorial Quadrangle. Construction of the 
building was completed in 1921. Commerce Hall's main entrance faces west, across the 
central courtyard of the Gilbert complex to its twin the Education Building. It is referred to as 
the East Wing of the Gilbert Complex. 
Style and Plan Shape 
Commerce Hall is Mediterranean in style, close to a mirror image of the Education Building. 
The decorative elements are crafted from ornamental brickwork and architectural terra cotta. 
The building has an L-shape plan measuring approximately 88 feet by 83 feet. The building 
has three full stories and a total area of approximately 19,000 square feet. The first floor is 
submerged approximately four feet below finished grade. Some of the detailing of Commerce 
Hall differs from the Education Building. The following physical description will identify 
these differences. 
West Elevation 
The main entry on the west elevation of Commerce Hall mimics the Education Building in all 
but three details. First, the framed terracotta panel in the small entablature directly above the 
entry reads "Commerce," where the Education Building's signage was removed. Second, the 
terra cotta capitals of the great brick pilasters that flank the entry are embellished with a 
figurative 'wheel of commerce' draped with pine boughs, representing the transportation of 
goods. Third, the iconographic roundel which sits inside the coffered, semi-circular terracotta 
arch, depicts a schooner under full sail. The elaborate physical description of the Education 
Building' s main entry on its East elevation, clearly describes the remaining details on the main 
entry of Commerce Hall ' s west elevation. 
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PART THREE - COMMERCE HALL {EAST WING) SINGER•70 
The northern end of the west elevation differs slightly from the Education Building in its 
window configuration. This end of the elevation is balanced with three 9/9 windows centered 
at each floor. The windows on the first floor are protected by a concrete retaining wall, 
creating a large window well. These retaining walls were added in 1951 to compensate for the 
regrade of the courtyard. 
South Elevation 
The south elevation is a simple symmetrical composition. The first floor has nine 9/9 
windows spanning the far;:ade. The second floor has three pairs of arched 6/6 operable 
windows at the center of the elevation, flanked by three 9/9 windows on either side. The pairs 
of arched windows are set into arched wooden frame sashes below a semi-circular brick arch. 
A wooden roundel embellishes the area above the windows in the arch of the wooden frame. 
Simple brick pilasters flank these windows supporting an entablature of herringbone 
b~ickwork with corbelled rowlock and soldier courses. This type of detailing is visible on the 
south elevation of the Education Building. The third floor has nine, typical 9/9 windows 
spanning the far;:ade. 
East Elevation 
The east elevation is broken into two expressions on the north and south sides. The north side 
of the east elevation is a simple symmetrical composition with three 9/9 windows centered on 
each floor. A number of 1" to 2" holes appear below the windows of the first and third floor. 
Anchor bolts fastened the original fire escape to the building at this location. 
The south side of the east elevation jogs forward 3' -6" from the wall plane to the north. 
Centered on the first floor of the south side is an entranceway. Concrete stairs flank the entry, 
descending four feet below finish grade to the first floor level. A low brick wall with terra 
cotta coping and terra cotta balusters sit above the cGncrete retaining wall that protects these 
stairs. Deep, narrow 6/6 windows flank the entry stairs, and typical 6/6 windows flank the 
first floor entry composition. These first floor windows are protected by concrete window 
wells and due to the proximity of foot traffic, the wells are covered with metal a grate. The 
second and third floors have three centered 9/9 windows flanked by typical 6/6 windows. The 
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PART THREE - COMMERCE HALL (EAST WING) SINGER•?! 
centered windows are framed by herringbone brickwork. Paired brick pilasters with terra cotta 
capitals similar to those at the main entry flank these windows. The roof parapet wall that 
rises from the entablature above the pilasters has an extra three stretcher courses and one 
soldier course before its coping. 
North Elevation 
The north elevation which historically faced Dad's Gates, is divided in two sections. The 
western side is composed of three 9/9 windows on each floor. The windows on the first floor 
are sheltered by concrete retaining walls. The north elevation's eastern side is where the 
Commonwealth addition attaches with a nine foot wide connecting hallway, rising from the 
first floor to the frieze in the entablature. Similar to the Education Building, this side is 
symmetrical in design, and more detailed. The center portion of the wall jogs forward, book-
ended on the second and third floors by paired brick pilasters with terra cotta bases and 
c~pitals identical to those which flank the main entry. The first floor has no exterior 
fenestration. Typical 6/6 windows flank the second and third floors. The frieze in the 
entablature is embellished with a herringbone brick pattern with terra cotta tiles set on edge. 
The roof parapet that rises from the entablature has three extra stretcher courses and one 
soldier course before the coping. A small 6/6 window remains in its original position on the 
third floor level. 
FIGURE 51: DETAIL ABOVE MAIN ENTRY FIGURE 52: EAST SIDE OF THE NORTH ELEV. 
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PART THREE - COMMERCE HALL (EAST WrNG} SINGER• 72 
FIGURE 53: WEST SIDE OF THE NORTH EVELA TION - COMMERCE HALL 
FIG~RE 54: VIEW FROM THE COMMONWEALTH ADDITION 
FIGURE 55: EAST ELEVATION - COMMERCE HALL 
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PART THREE - COMMERCE HALL (EAST WING) SINGER• 73 
+CHRONOLOGY OF EXTERIOR ALTERATIONS + 
Commerce Hall retains a high degree of integrity on the exterior, but there were several 
alterations that had a significant impact. Alterations which are unaccounted for include the 
removal of the historic fire escape on the East elevation and the replacement of the large 
ornamental lanterns, which flanked the entry. 
The most notable alterations involve the 1951 Commonwealth addition. The addition 
drastically changed the character and flow of the site, disrupting the axial circulation and view 
corridor established in Lawrence' s 1914 Campus Plan. It required the removal of important 
historic fabric on Commerce Hall's northern fa<,:ade, including corbelled arches, sections of 
the belt courses and the frieze, and a terra cotta State of Oregon Seal. The Seal, depicted in a 
bass relief, was relocated to the northern fa9ade of the Commonwealth addition. 
The re-grade of the courtyard for the 1951 addition caused three problems for Commerce Hall. 
First, the entry stairs were manipulated in a similar fashion to the Education Building, 
resulting in the removal of the first leg of the configuration and its lower landing. Second, the 
re-grade required the installation of concrete retaining walls around each of the first floor 
windows. Third, the elevated grade required that the entry stair on the East elevation be raised 
along with its low brick wall with terra cotta coping and balusters. 
The truncation of the gable-end parapet wall above the main entrance in 1951 was perhaps the 
most notable if not most invasive alteration to Commerce Hall. The detailing of the unglazed 
terra cotta crown pieces on the Commerce Hall were much more elaborate than those on the 
Education Building. A large terra cotta finial with a deeply carved acanthus leaf sat atop the 
building, and ornate terracotta scrolls capped the ends of the gable' s eaves where the roof tile 
ended. In addition, duplicate terra cotta ornament was visible from the backside or east 
elevation. The four-foot thick gabled parapet was highly visible from the quadrangle. Just as 
in the alteration of the Education Building, the cascading corbelled arches directly under the 
gable were removed. The dismantled terra cotta crown pieces and much of the historic 
roofing tiles have been located underneath the Education Building' s stair vault. 
EDUCATION BUILDING HISTORIC STRUCTURES REPORT 
COMMERCE HALL 
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PART THREE - COMMERCE HALL (EAST WING) SINGER• 74 
When the roof was replaced on the building in 1992, standing seam metal flashing was 
installed on the truncated parapet wall, formed to imitate the terra cotta coping. The 16 oz. 
copper flashing was installed on the inside of the parapet wall at this time and two of the 
skylights were cleaned, caulked, painted and had broken panes replaced. The large skylight 
over the rooms 383 and 384, the historic Library/Museum space, was removed and curbed up. 
FIGURE 56: BACK OF CAVITY WALL WITH COPPER 
COPING INSTALLED 
FIGURE 57: FLASHED CONNECTION AT THE TOP OF THE FIGURE 58: DETAIL OF THE EXPANSION JOINT SEAM 
1951 ADDITION. BETWEEN COMMERCE HALL AND THE 1951 
EDUCATION BUILDING HISTORIC STRUCTURES REPORT 
COMMERCE HALL 
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PART THREE - COMMERCE HALL (EAST WING) SINGER• 75 
+ INTERIOR ALTERATIONS + 
Commerce Hall has had two major alterations to its interior in 1951 and 1975. The layout of 
the interior spatial organization has changed significantly but large portions of the original 
walls along hallways and the bathrooms remain with their finishes intact. The building was 
originally designed to house twelve classrooms, eight offices, and one library/museum space, 
totaling twenty-one rooms. Today the building houses a total of sixty-seven rooms, almost all 
office space. The rooms which appear relatively unaltered dimensionally are the bathrooms, 
closets, and janitors rooms. Most other rooms have been subdivided. 
The 1951 remodel designed by Wick and Hilgers was done in conjunction with the 
construction of the Commonwealth addition. It replaced almost all finished plaster and 
installed acoustic ceiling tile and asphalt floor tile throughout the building. When the interior 
walls and ceilings were finished with new plaster with wire mesh backing, a large portion of 
interior door and window surrounds were left intact along the hallways. Many of the doors 
were replaced with wood panel doors, but a number of the original doors and transoms remain 
intact. Also, a notable portion of the original picture moldings and chair rails were left intact 
in many of the rooms. 
The 1975 remodel was designed by the firm of Michael, Mann and Lakeman. In this remodel, 
many interior partition walls were added. Suspended ceilings were installed in the rooms that 
were reconfigured. The handicap ramp access that split the corridors on the first, second and 
third floors were also added. 
E DUCATION BUILDING HISTORIC STRUCTURES REPORT 
COMM ERCE HALL 

PART THREE - COMMERCE HALL (EAST WING) SINGER• 76 
+ ASSESSMENT OF EXISTING CONDITIONS + 
Foundation - Commerce Hall 
Commerce Hall rests on a cast-in-place concrete perimeter stem wall, with a slab-on-grade 
sub-floor similar to the Education Building. Evidence on the inside of the stair vault where 
the mechanical space is located, indicates that the foundation was poured in layers. Several 
cold joints are visible among the board formed marks in the concrete stem wall. A well built, 
segmental, brick arch leads from the janitors closet in room 184, through the foundation wall 
to the stair vault. The concrete stem wall is plastered on the exterior with a cement stucco 
finish, exposed one to two feet above finish grade. Five square concrete footings support the 
internal structure. The stairwell has a concrete strip footing which supports the interior 
unreinforced brick bearing walls of the stair. 
F IGURE 59: FOUNDATION STEM WALL UNDER STAIR VAULT. FIGURE 60: SEGMENTAL BRICK ARCH PASSAGE THROUGH 
N OTE THE COLD JOINTS AND THE BOARD FORMED MARKS THE FOUNDATION WALL TO THE MECHANICAL ROOM 
EDUCATION BUILDING HISTORIC STRUCTURES REPORT 
COMMERCE HALL 

PART THREE - COMMERCE HALL (EAST WING} SINGER• 77 
Entry Stairs - Commerce Hall 
The entry stairs are identical to those on the Education Building and are experiencing similar 
problems. Some of the surface of the concrete is chipping away or cracking at the nosing of 
the risers, and what appears to be the original concrete finish of the stairs is visible beneath. 
The brick walls with terracotta coping which follow the stair's configuration are experiencing 
some trauma. The lintel above the vent opening to the stair's vault is corroding and jacking 
the wall upwards. The coping is damaged where it was manipulated from the previous 
configuration. There are chipped spots exposing the body of the terra cotta on the comers and 
arrises of the coping. Some of the coping has been filled with a cement grout. The set of terra 
cotta balusters and the terra cotta coping which fronts the upper landing, has some similar 
damage where the terra cotta body is exposed. The glaze and body seem to be spalling, 
appearing broken in localized spots and perhaps further impacted by the mechanical abrasion 
of people and bicycles. The stair and brick wall at the first floor's east entry have similar terra 
cotta detailing and are experiencing the same chipping and spalling of their components. 
FIGURE61: WALLA DST IRAT AST NTRY FIGURE 62: DAMAGED CONCRETE NOSING 
..._." ,• ·,,• 
' "'~~-'/ f1!r~,?~ 
'-~1.~-• ~·-·  l i ,).~-  . 
FIGURE 63: MECHANICAL ABBRASION FIGURE 64: MOVEMENT DUE TO JACKING 
OF GLAZE FROM BICYCLE CHAINS OF THE CORRODED LINTEL 
EDUCATION BUILDING HISTORIC STRUCTURES REPORT 
COMMERCE HALL 
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PART THREE - COMMERCE HALL (EAST WING) S!NGER•78 
Exterior Walls - Commerce Hall 
The exterior walls of Commerce Hall are unreinforced composite brick masonry bearing 
walls. The walls use a Common Bond assembly with header bricks in every sixth bond 
course. The first floor uses this same type of assembly with rowlock positioned bricks in 
every seventh bond course. Striations on the bricks indicate they were manufactured using a 
stiff-mud process, where a column of clay is extruded through a steel die and wire cut to the 
correct dimension. The brick joints are finished with a concave profile in a relatively hard 
mortar. A large portion of the exterior wall surface is embellished with finely crafted 
brickwork and unique, cream-color, glazed terracotta ornamentation with mineral-like 
speckles in the glazing that imitate stone. The terra cotta is composite with the masonry 
construction, set directly into the assembly with no evidence of metal anchoring systems 
visible on the building or in the original plans and specifications for the construction. Some 
damage to the terra cotta ornament, which has exposed the porous body to the elements, 
includes chipping and broken arrisses. This damage is most visible in areas accessible to 
human activity around the entry. Moss and fems have taken root in the joints between the 
terra cotta in numerous places along the upper belt courses and at the tops of the terra cotta 
pilaster capitals. There are several locations where graffiti has been painted on the brickwork 
of the south fa1yade. Brickwork details and terra cotta ornament match the Education Building 
very closely. The multi-layered horizontal belt courses, the entablature, and the parapet walls 
are identical to those on the Education Building. 
Two paired sets of steel angle iron form the structural lintel above each window, visible on the 
exterior and protected with a green paint. The second and third floor windows employ lug 
sills made of brick in a rowlock position. 
There are concrete window well retaining walls around the first floor window groups. These 
retaining window wells were added during the 1951 re-grade of the site. These wells have 
drains at their centers. Most of these window wells have collected leaves and other debris 
around their drain covers. There are small cracks in the concrete finish where the wells 
connect to the building's foundation. 
EDUCATION BUILDING HISTORIC STRUCTURES REPORT 
COMMERCE HALL 
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PART THREE - COMMERCE HALL (EAST WING) SINGER• 79 
The wall plane of Commerce Hall is divided horizontally between each floor by continuous 
design elements. These elements are similar to those used on the Education Building. The 
cavity wall parapet over the main entry is also similar. 
During the 1992 roof replacement, the terra cotta coping on the parapet wall was cleaned, 
repointed and the joints were sealed with a ¼" of latex sealant. The sealant seems to be in 
good shape. 16 oz. standing seam copper flashing, formed and painted to imitate the historic 
terra cotta coping, was installed during the project to protect the top of the masonry wall 
above the entry fa<;ade where the gable-end parapet had been removed. 
The brick assembly in the entablature and parapet level of Commerce Hall has a significant 
amount of moss and algae growth on almost all mortar joints. Upon inspection of the interior 
of the attic crawl space, which is relatively warm and dry space, the inside of the exterior 
walls were found to be dry. However, in some areas behind the entablature and parapet, 
efflorescence was present around the mortar joints, especially in the northeast comer. The 
coping on the parapet has a smooth curved outer profile, which has become stained dark green 
from algae growth where water seems to travel. The brick coursing underneath the coping has 
an accumulation of moss and algae growth also, as do many of the more protected areas and 
inside comers of the exterior wall. Although there is significant growth on the mortar joints, 
the mortar beneath the growth is hard and appears well bonded to the brick. Clinging to the 
lower sections of the building are remnants of dead vines and organic debris. Photographic 
evidence held by the University Archives indicates that these vines once obscured the building 
completely. 
EDUCATION BUILDING HISTORIC STRUCTURES REPORT 
COMMERCE HALL 
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PART THREE - COMMERCE HALL (EAST WING) SINGER• 80 
FIGURE 65: CRACKING OF THE STUCCO FINISH ON THE FIGURE 66:STAINING AND ORGANIC DEBRIS ON THE 
CONCRETE WINDOW WELL RETAINING WALLS BELT COURSES AND WINDOWS SILLS 
F IGURE 67: PAINTED GRAFFllTI FIGURE 68: STAINING AND GROWTH ON THE DRIP EDGE OF 
THE TERRA COTTA PARAPET COPING. HEAVY BUILD-UP ON 
THE MORTAR JOINTS BELOW 
FIGURE 69: SHEET METAL FLASHING WHERE THE CAVITY FIGURE 70: Moss GROWTH ON THE MORTAR JOINTS 
WALL AND GABLED PARAPET WAS REMOVED BETWEEN THE TERRA COTTA PIECES AND VINES ON THE 
BRICKS IN THE LOWER FLOORS 
EDUCATION BUILDING HISTORIC STRUCTURES REPORT 
COMMERCE HALL 
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PART THREE - COMMERCE HALL (EAST WING) SINGER• 81 
Roofing- Commerce Hall 
The roofing system on Commerce Hall was replaced in May of 1992, using the same fully 
adhered elastic membrane and rigid insulation of the Education Building. All new flashing 
was installed around all roof vents, mechanical equipment, and skylights. The roof surface 
sits over a shallow attic space. The roof drains to the east, toward an interior iron leader 
downspout. A new drain body and strainer were installed in 1992. 16 oz. Copper flashing 
covers the inside of the brick parapet wall around the perimeter of the building. Sealant has 
been applied to the joint between the coping and the flashing on the parapet wall to prevent 
water penetration behind the new roofing membrane. The sheet copper flashing was damaged 
at several inside comers during the installation of the new counter flashing and some of the 
pop rivets are now rusting out. Some inside and outside comers, especially near the cavity 
wall parapet which were difficult to seal, were not flashed properly and appear to be directing 
water toward the masonry wall where some mortar joints are wet and deteriorating. 
Metal retaining bars used to fasten the edges of the elastic roof membrane and the flashing, are 
held in place by expanding lead anchor nails. These anchors were drilled and embedded 
through the base of the terra cotta coping at some places along the perimeter and slathered 
with a black bituminous-like sealant. 
FIGURE 71: FULLY ADHERED ELASTIC ROOF MEMBRANE FIGURE 72: LATEX SEALANT BETWEEN PARAPET COPING 
AFFIXED WITH METAL RETAINING BARS, ANCHORED TO THE 
PARAPET COPING 
EDUCATION BUILDING HISTORIC STRUCTURES REPORT 
COMMERCE HALL 
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PART THREE - COMMERCE HALL (EAST WING) SINGER• 82 
Fenestration: Windows, Doors and Skylights - Commerce Hall 
The window jambs are set into the masonry wall, flush with the interior wall surface. All 
window jambs and sashes are constructed of wood with 6/6, and 9/9 configurations of the 
panes. All the windows appear original and use single pane glass. All of the windows 
accessible for inspection appeared serviceable. Typical windows are operable, using awning-
type sashes. The lower sash locks the upper sash into position so it cannot operate 
independently. Each window inspected was experiencing a loss of paint and desiccation of 
the wooden sash. The arched windows on the south and west elevations operate on vertical 
hinges. Many of the brass window latches and plates are intact. The sills of the first floor 
windows are weathered to shed moisture, with a cement stucco finish over the brick masonry. 
The second and third floor windows employ lug sills made of brick in a rowlock position. 
Two paired sets of steel angle iron form the structural lintel above each window, protected 
with a green paint. Window jambs, sashes and other wooden trim are also painted green. 
Solid wood doors with a three-quarter length light have replaced the paired exterior doors at 
the second floor main entry, and the first floor east entry. 
FIGURE 73: SKYLIGHT FIGURE 74: WINDOW HARDWARE AND DAMAGE AT MULLION 
EDUCATION BUILDING HISTORIC STRUCTURES REPORT 
COMMERCE HALL 
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PART THREE - COMMERCE HALL (EAST WING) SINGER• 83 
FIGURE 75: MAIN ENTRY DOORS AT WEST ELEVATION FIGURE 76: FIRST FLOOR ENTRY DOORS AT SOUTH 
ELEVATION 
FIGURE 77: TYPICAL 9 OVER 9 WOODEN SASH FIGURE 78: TYPICAL 6 OVER 6 IN OPEN POSITION 
EDUCATION BUILDING HISTORIC STRUCTURES REPORT 
COMMERCE HALL 
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PART THREE - COMMERCE HALL (EAST WING) SINGER• 84 
Interior Structure- Commerce Hall 
The interior structure is not readily visible. The following description is based on the original 
construction drawings held by the Campus Architect at the Facility Services Office. 
The unreinforced brick masonry bearing walls around the perimeter of the building provide 
the entire lateral force-resisting system for the structure. These walls contain a large number 
of window openings, reducing the overall area of the wall surface. The piers between the 
windows are larger that those of the Education Building. 
Built five years later than the Education Building, Commerce Hall uses a more modem 
internal structure, composed of steel I-section columns and girders. Girders range from 12 
inches to 20 inches deep. The steel columns rest on concrete footings, attached by steel plates 
and angles. The girders are let into pockets in the masonry for support. Girders on the first 
floor rest in steel plates embedded in the masonry. Girders on the second floor rest on 5 inch 
steel I-sections measuring 2'-6" across, also embedded in the masonry. The steel frame was 
assembled using¾" rivets. Wooden 8xl2 struts tie the girders to each other and connect the 
steel frame to the exterior masonry bearing walls at several points. The 2xl6 floor joists are 
set with bridging 16-inch centers, and 12-inch centers. The floor joists span from the top of 
the steel girders to the perimeter bearing walls, where they are set into pockets in the masonry. 
Metal straps are nailed to the tops of the joists and let into the masonry wall to transfer lateral 
loads. The largest floor joist span is 28 feet. The floor diaphragms consist of lx straight 
sheathing with an overlay of tongue and groove flooring. 
E DUCATION BUILDING HISTORIC STRUCTURES REPORT 
COMMERCE HALL 
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PART THREE - COMMERCE HALL (EAST WING) SINGER• 85 
Interior Finishes - Commerce Hall 
The building's floor plans are included in the page following this description for reference to 
individual rooms and the location of original walls and existing historic fabric. 
The interior spaces of Commerce Hall have been manipulated more than those of the 
Education Building. However, some areas remain veritably intact and there are prominent 
historic finishes located throughout the building and the centrally located stairwell. The main 
stairwell is centrally located at the inside comer of the L-shaped plan of the building. The 
stair treads and landings have been covered with asphalt tile with metal nosing. Fire doors 
have been added at each floor. All other elements of the stair including square newels, 
balusters, rails and moldings are wood and appear original to the stair. Portions of the original 
wooden base board molding, which were used throughout the building historically, are present 
in the stairwell on the first floor. A large skylight illuminates the space. 
The first floor houses mostly offices and the Finance Center. The first floor retains a majority 
of its historic interior wall finishes along hallways HI 76 and HI 60, complete with doors, door 
surrounds and operable transoms. The eastern entry hall HI 70 appears almost as built. The 
wall around the first floor bathroom also retains much of its original fabric. The first floor can 
be accessed from the handicap ramp of the Commonwealth addition, the centrally located 
stairwell, or a pair of ext~rior doors leading to the below-grade stair on the East elevation. 
Entering from the east elevation, the corridor proceeds down a set of three steps and doglegs 
right, past the stairwell toward the Commonwealth. Room 184 which is the janitor' s closet, 
and accesses the heating room located under the main exterior entry stairs. A small passage 
with a segmental brick arch header leads through the buildings concrete stem wall foundation 
to the heating room. The heating room is a rectangular space constructed of board-formed 
concrete. 
The second floor houses the Office of the Dean of the Charles Lundquist School of Business, 
the Earl Chiles Student Services Offices, the Office of Development and External Affairs, and 
a number of other individual office spaces. All of the original classroom spaces on this floor 
EDUCATION BUILDING HISTORIC STRUCTURES REPORT 
COMMERCE HALL 

PART THREE- COMMERCE HALL (EAST WING) SINGER• 86 
have been subdivided into smaller offices. The main entry to Commerce Hall is located on 
this floor. The entry has the original transom light above its doors and two arches that span 
across the foyer to the tops of half pilasters which flank the hallway. From the entry there are 
five steps up to the main hall, which continues past the stair and doglegs left toward the 
Commonwealth. This hallway, H260, is split with a set of steps and the 1975 handicap ramp 
addition. Apart from the entry foyer, most of the extant historic finishes on the second floor 
are located off this hall including several doors, door surrounds, and operable transoms. 
Several of the rooms have their original chair rails and picture moldings. 
The third floor houses the Accounting Department office and twenty-eight other individual 
office spaces. All of the original spaces have been subdivided. The interior finishes from the 
previous alterations, including asphalt floor tile, suspended ceilings, and glued on acoustic 
ceiling tile, are typical to the lower floors. Many of the offices retain their original doors and 
surrounds. There are several original operable transoms and a bank of historic dividing wall 
windows located off hallway H377. There is a handicap access ramp at the end of hallway 
H360, connecting to the Commonwealth addition through the north wall of the building. 
EDUCATION BUILDING HISTORIC STRUCTURES REPORT 
COMMERCE HALL 
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PART THREE - COMMERCE HALL (EAST WING) SINGER• 87 
FIGURE 79: FIRST FLOOR COMMERCE HALL. FIGURE 80: SECOND FLOOR COMMERCE HALL 
Red Lines indicate location of 
original walls and extant historic 
finishes 
FIGURE 81: THIRD FLOOR COMMERCE HALL 
EDUCATION BUILDING HISTORIC STRUCTURES REPORT 
COMMERCE HALL 

PART THREE- COMMERCE HALL (EAST WING) SINGER• 88 
+CONSERVATION GOALS 4-
Commerce Hall and the Education Building were among the first major architectural 
expressions to shape the University of Oregon campus in the twentieth century. They set a 
high standard for quality in construction on the campus and helped to establish strong ties 
between the School of Architecture and the planning and construction activities on the 
can1pus. Given their status of eligibility for listing on the National Register based on issues of 
integrity and the direct association with Ellis Fuller Lawrence, it is recommended that 
treatment options for these buildings be carefully evaluated based on long-range conservation 
goals. The conservation goals for both the Education Building and Commerce Hall should be 
broad-based. This is because the building's components exist today in various states ofrepair 
due to their alterations over the past eighty to ninety years. Therefore, the author believes it 
would be prudent to apply the conservation goals outline by the Secretary of Interior's 
Standard for Rehabilitation. Rehabilitation is defined as, " the act or process of making 
possible a compatible use for a property through repair, alterations, and additions while 
preserving those portions or features which convey its historical, cultural, or architectural 
values." A Rehabilitation standard will allow for the improvement of the buildings in order to 
meet the changing needs of the university, while honoring the historic integrity of the 
campus's architectural legacy. 
An overall examination of the problems that the stewards of Commerce Hall must manage has 
revealed four primary areas of concern. Specific conservation goals are recommended for 
these four following areas: 
1) The reinstatement of missing architectural elements 
The building's main entry facades have had several signature elements of Ellis Lawrence's 
original design removed including: 
• The Mediterranean style gable-end roof parapet 
• The large ornamental terra cotta crown pieces and endcaps 
• The cascading corbelled arches below the parapet 
• The original entry stair and landing configuration 
• The ornamental lamps that flanked the main entry. 
EDUCATION BUILDING HISTORIC STRUCTURES REPORT 
COMMERCE HALL 
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PART THREE - COMMERCE HALL (EAST WING) SINGER• 89 
These elements clearly represent Lawrence's great talent in manipulating eclectic historic 
detail, and his specific decisions about how to effectively address the north end of the 
Memorial Quadrangle. Accurate documentation and samples exist which will enable the 
reconstruction and of these features. The catalogued terracotta depicted in Appendix B should 
be restored to its original position. It is recommended that the Secretary of the Interiors 
Standards for Reconstruction be adhered to when crafting the specifications for this section of 
the work. 
2) The conservation and care of the existing exterior fabric 
Most of the exterior of Commerce Hall remains nearly as built. Conservation goals relating to 
the care of the exterior of the building should make every attempt to preserve in perpetuity the 
historic building's envelope in accordance with the Secretary oflnterior' s Standards. 
3) The conservation and care of the existing interior fabric 
Much of the interior of Commerce Hall has been altered or covered over by subsequent 
alterations. There are several salient historic characteristics identified in the following 
assessment that remain intact within the interior spaces. Any rehabilitation efforts within the 
building should focus on the goal of preserving historic fabric and spatial integrity wherever 
possible. However, the Standards for Rehabilitation recognize the building' s continued use 
must take into account the changing needs of the University. Therefore, any alteration of the 
interior spaces should preserve existing fabric where possible and respectfully address any 
changes that might impact it. 
4) The sensitive design of the proposed new addition 
The 1951 addition has impacted Commerce Hall architecturally and has affected the character 
of the site. Conservation goals relating to the design of a proposed new addition should 
address the historic planning efforts of Ellis Lawrence and limit any further impact to the 
building' s architectural character and fabric. A thorough examination of the design issues 
relating to the new addition and recommendations are included in Appendix A of this report. 
EDUCATION BUILDING HISTORIC STRUCTURES REPORT 
COMMERCE HALL 
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L.L_:III_Dllllt 
PART THREE - COMMERCE HALL (EAST WING) SINGER•90 
+ EvA LUATION OF EXISTING CONDITIONS + 
Foundation - Commerce Hall 
The foundation of Commerce Hall consists of a concrete reinforced stem wall connected to a 
slab-on-grade with an embedded waterproof membrane. The portions of the foundation that 
are accessible for inspection appear to be in good condition. No significant cracks are visible 
in the stem wall foundation around the perimeter of the building, and no rust staining is 
present. Because the building' s first floor sits below grade, it is important to delimit or 
closely monitor any changes to the stem walls or the slab-on-grade that would compromise the 
embedded waterproofing membrane. 
The cement plaster or stucco finish on the stem wall foundation at ground level is spalling or 
fhipped in small localized spots. The stucco is essentially a vertical cold joint and is 
susceptible to water penetration especially given its location at the bottom of the wall. The 
stucco should be repaired before any further penetration and freeze thaw cycles can occur. 
Cracks should be filled and missing portions built up with a stucco mixture that matches the 
texture and color of the original material. An acrylic bonder should be applied to the 
subsurface before repair. 
Entry Stairs - Commerce Hall 
The concrete stair with brick walls and terrn cotta coping at the main entrance is in poor to fair 
condition. The two legs of the stair are experiencing problems in several areas similar to 
those of the Education Building, including spalling of the concrete steps and the terra cotta 
coping, failure or disintegration of the mortar, and expansion of the steel lintels above the 
ventilation windows in the stair vault. 
Water, moss and algae growth have substantially deteriorated the head joints in the mortar 
between most of the terrn cotta coping pieces. The mortar joints between the intact terra cotta 
coping pieces need to be cleaned and the pieces reset. Careful attention should be paid to the 
EDUCATION BUILDING HISTORIC STRUCTURES REPORT 
COMMERCE HALL 
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PART THREE - COMMERCE HALL (EAST WING) SINGER• 91 
mortar mix to provide a good bond between the coping pieces. This is a key issue because the 
glaze on the terra cotta is minimally absorptive, precluding a good bond. A water sealant 
should be applied to the vertical head joints periodically. 
The terra cotta coping pieces on these stairs are spalled and chipped in a similar manner to the 
Education Building. Most of the damage is along the comers of the pieces where they may 
have been set down when the stair was dissembled and reconfigured in 1951. Where the 
coping is damaged and the clay body is exposed, water can easily be absorbed causing further 
damage. The set of terra cotta balusters that front the upper landing are experiencing similar 
problems. This is a highly trafficked area and mechanical abrasion of the coping and the 
balusters is an ongoing problem. Filling or patching spalled pieces with a cement grout is 
not recommended. In order to halt the absorption of water in a non-intrusive way, a cold glaze 
or in-painting can be applied to areas of limited damage. 
The steel lintels that span the ventilation opening in the stair vault are experiencing some 
corrosive attack. These lintels are not expanding severely but they should be monitored and 
perhaps replaced if damage to the brick walls becomes problematic. The lintels should 
perhaps be treated with a rust inhibitor and painted with a protective coating. 
The brick walls surrounding the stair are in fair condition, but some of the joints are missing 
mortar, especially along the bottom of the coping. The cause of the damage is likely due to 
moisture infiltration and movement due to expansion. These walls may need to be partially 
rebuilt or have their mortar repointed in localized areas. 
Finally, small areas of the 1951 finish surface of the concrete are chipping away, cracking on 
portions of the landings, and at the nosing of the risers. This could be due to the failure of the 
bond between the new finish and the subsurface. These cracks and spalls should be patched 
and filled with new mix before any further damage can occur. The mix should match the 
aggregate as closely as possible and an acrylic bonder should be applied to the subsurface. 
EDUCATION BUILDING HISTORIC STRUCTURES REPORT 
COMMERCE HALL 

PART THREE - COMMERCE HALL (EAST WING) SINGER•92 
Exterior Walls - Commerce Hall 
The unreinforced brick masonry bearing walls of Commerce Hall are in good condition. 
There is no visible leakage on any of the interior wall surfaces and the build up of 
efflorescence at the mortar joints in the attic space does not appear to be softening the mortar 
or compromising bond. This could remain from the original construction. In the upper portion 
of the building where moisture and weathering is more commonly a problem, a significant 
amount of moss and algae growth has obscured the mortar joints. The moist environment 
created by the growth however, does not seem to have compromised the brick assembly or the 
mortar on the outside of the building. Spots of accumulated organic matter are visible at 
corbelled areas and inside comers of the building' s envelope where there is a more protected 
environment and need to be cleaned. There are several areas in the decorative brickwork of 
the east elevation where bricks were set in corbelled positions with their head joints exposed. 
Several of the bricks are in danger of falling. The bond is compromised between the mortar 
~d some brick due to either water penetration, freeze thaw, or a combination of both. These 
bricks need to be carefully removed and reset. It is also recommended at this time that the 
entire building is cleaned of deleterious growth and dead vines that once covered the lower 
areas of the building. A thorough inspection of all mortar joints should be conducted at that 
time in order to identify other problematic areas including the head joints in the rowlock 
windowsills, and the terra co.tta coping and belt courses which have difficultly retaining a 
good bond due to their glazed surfaces. 
The large terra cotta coping pieces on the parapet wall were cleaned and repointed in 1992, 
but they will soon be in need of attention again. The mortar joints of the coping were sealed 
with approximately ¼ inch of latex sealant at that time. The sealant appears in good 
condition, but it will need to be replaced sometime in the next five to ten years to avoid 
damage to the repointed mortar joints and the wall below. The buildup of algae on the 
underside of the coping needs to be cleaned to prevent further growth and help reestablish the 
drip edge in order to divert water from the wall surface. Chips in the terra cotta coping along 
the parapet which were in-painted with an enamel-like paint are peeling. These areas need to 
be cleaned and in-painted again. Above the main entry on the east elevation, the copper 
E DUCATION BUILDING HISTORIC STRUCTURES REPORT 
COMMERCE HALL 
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PART THREE - COMMERCE HALL (EAST WING} SINGER• 93 
coping which protects the cavity wall is in good condition but counter flashing around the 
coping is diverting water toward the building. The flashing details need to be checked and 
realigned to divert water away. 
The 1 to 2 inch holes on the north side of the west elevation, where the historic fire escape 
was connected to the building have not been filled. The steel anchor pins look as though they 
have been cut and left in place. The holes should be filled with colored mortar and the pins 
removed if possible, or left in place and protected from corrosion if the fire escape is not to be 
reinstated. 
The terra cotta ornament which is composite with the brick masonry wall assembly is in 
excellent condition, though it needs to be cleaned and repointed in several areas. These areas 
are associated with places where water collects and stimulates organic growth. Fems and 
moss have take root in the joints between the terracotta where the mortar has popped out. 
There is no evidence of a metal anchoring system for the terra cotta. This is typically the 
major cause of failure with this type of material when water has penetrated the system. The 
terracotta ornament of Commerce Hall is a signature material of the building's character and 
must not be altered. It is imperative that the terra cotta ornament not have its protective glaze 
or the clay body compromised by efforts to reinforce it within the masonry wall assembly by 
epoxy dowels or other intrusive elements. It is worthwhile economically to extend further 
tests examining the stability of the terracotta within the masonry assembly. Should these tests 
show instability, less intrusive methods of anchoring from the back into the masonry-filled 
core of the pieces should be investigated. All the terra cotta units produced for this building 
have webbing in their hollow backside with punched holes to provide anchoring and stiffness. 
The window and door openings in the exterior walls have two paired sets of steel angle iron 
that form their structural lintels. The accessible lintels seem in good repair. Rusting and 
expansion could cause serious problems in the future, and it is recommended that the window 
and door lintels be periodically monitored for signs of distress, and regularly repainted. 
EDUCATION BUILDING HISTORIC STRUCTURES REPORT 
COMMERCE HALL 
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PART THREE- COMMERCE HALL (EAST WING) SINGER• 94 
The concrete window well retaining walls around the first floor window groups need to be 
monitored for signs of movement in the future. The thin cracks in the outer surface should be 
patched and signs of rust staining should be looked for which could indicate corrosion and 
harmful expansion of the reinforcing steel. The small drains at the center of the window 
wells need to be kept clear of leaves and debris to prevent ponding and the danger of water 
infiltration. 
Roofing - Commerce Hall 
The roofing system on Commerce Hall was replaced in May of 1992. The new roofing 
surface is well maintained and appears to be in excellent condition. Similar to the Education 
Building, the slope of the rooflooks as thought it might have been increased above the old 
wood decking. It is difficult to establish this based on the historic sectional drawings held by 
Facility Services. There is no evidence of this on the inside attic space, where the original 
pony walls supporting the roof are intact. 
There is some concern about the attachment of the new roofing surface to the bottom lip of the 
terra cotta coping. Drilling through the coping to insert lead expansion fasteners has 
compromised the protective glazing of the terracotta. This may not be a problem now, but 
failure of the terracotta body at these points will compromise the roof membranes' seal in the 
future. The system should be left intact and any future roof repair should note this potential 
failure of the fastening system. 
The 16 oz. copper counter flashing, which protects the perimeter edges of the new roofing 
membrane, the roof ventilating penthouse, and the historic skylights, is in good condition. 
The sheet copper flashing around the inside of the parapet wall was slightly damaged when 
the counter flashing was installed. There is concern that the sheet flashing might not be 
allowing the brick parapet to breath properly and may be causing excessive moisture build-up 
behind it. It is difficult to establish this using non-destructive means. It is recommended that 
the rivets be drilled out in several sections in order to make and accurate assessment and 
evaluation for recommended treatment. 
EDUCATION BUILDING HISTORIC STRUCTURES REPORT 
COMMERCE HALL 

PART THREE - COMMERCE HALL (EAST WING) SINGER• 95 
Fenestration: Windows. Doors and Skylights - Commerce Hall 
All windows that were accessible to the author for inspection were in fair to good, serviceable 
condition. The components inspected include sashes, sills, glass and glazing, locks and 
operable mechanisms. It is recommended that a complete inspection be given to every 
window. The inspection should include a thorough examination of the wooden sash for loss 
of paint, rot and proper sealant. The lintels should be inspected for corrosion. The operating 
awning-type mechanisms should be checked to insure that they do not bind in either the upper 
or lower sashes. The glazing should not be missing or loose which could allow water 
penetration. All the locking mechanisms should function with ease. The original locking 
mechanisms should not be replaced or additional locks installed if it can be avoided. The 
window jambs are set into the masonry wall, flush with the interior wall surface. There 
should be no sign of moisture around the interior trim. If there is, check the exterior sealant 
and apply new calk to the area once it has been properly prepped. 
The paired exterior doors on the west elevation and the solid wood doors with a three-quarter 
length light on the east elevations have been replaced. These are in good condition. Their 
historic operable transoms appear in good condition and should be periodically inspected 
using the recommendations above. 
The two gabled skylights on the roof are in fair to good condition. The skylights were 
cleaned, resealed and repaired during the 1992 re-roofing. The skylights use metal framing 
and mullions with a sheet metal ridge cap, which covers an operable louver. The louvers are 
functioning properly. Most of the glass appears original although some has been replaced 
with new wire reinforced obscure panes similar to the historic panes. The silicon sealant 
which holds the panes is apparently in good condition but should be monitored for leakage. 
HISTORIC STRUCTURES REPORT 
EDUCATION BUILDING 
COMMERCE HALL 
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PART THREE - COMMERCE HALL (EAST WING) 
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Structure- Commerce Hall 
The author does not have the expertise to evaluate the structural integrity of Commerce Hall. 
However, Degenkolb engineering firm was contracted by the University to perform the 
evaluation of Commerce Hall and has proposed a scheme similar that of the Education 
Building for a seismic upgrade. The author will evaluate their recommendations here, based 
the applicability of the Secretary of Interior' s Standards for Rehabilitation. 
Degenkolb engineers again proposed four structural components and one nonstructural 
component in their seismic strengthening scheme for Commerce Hall including: 
I. Vertical lateral elements 
II. Foundations 
III. Diaphragms 
IV. Collectors 
V. Braces and terra cotta anchors 
I & II Vertical lateral elements and foundations: 
The incorporation of a new vertical lateral element and new foundation components are 
propos~d for the centrally located historic stairwell. It is proposed that the existing historic 
stairwell be reinforced around its perimeter with a 6-inch layer of shotcrete over the solid 
walls and an 8-inch layer on the wall with door openings. A metal stud framing system is 
proposed on the interior of the stairwell to help brace the unreinforced masonry. Shotcrete on 
the inside of the stairwell is proposed as an option for this purpose. The slab-on-grade and 
strip footing below the unreinforced masonry wall would be removed and replaced down to 
bedrock with a new foundation. 
There are several issues associated with the proposed scheme that should be examined. The 
application of shotcrete is a non-reversible process. However, as discussed earlier in this 
section, it is difficult to up-grade an unreinforced n,asonry building without impacting the 
historic fabric. The area proposed for the shotcrete application is limited to 6 to 8 inches on 
interior surfaces and could be applied in a way that is minimally noticeable. The introduction 
of metal stud framing on the interior of the stair would however, render a noteworthy impact 
to the character of the stairwell space. The stairwell is essentially one of the only 
EDUCATION B UILDING HISTORIC STRUCTURES REPORT 
COMMERCE HALL 

PART THREE- COMMERCE HALL (EAST WING) SINGER• 97 
dimensionally intact spaces remaining in the building. Several moldings that parallel the rail 
are intact along the interior of the entire stair rail. These moldings should be retained and 
reinstalled if the metal stud framing or the interior shotcrete application must be carried out. 
If the engineer could re-examine the possibility to introduce several key structural pieces of 
steel in unobtrusive places at the ceilings and landings, the impact could be limited. The 
Secretary of Interior's Standards should take no issue with the upgrade to the foundation. 
Careful attention should be paid to the detail of waterproofing the new foundation where the 
original slab-on-grade would be compromised. 
II. Diaphragms: 
The same three components are proposed to improve the performance of the diaphragms of 
Commerce Hall as were recommended for the Education Building. First, a layer of plywood 
would be added to each floor joist system, including the ceiling joists above the third floor in 
,order to strengthen the diaphragms. Second, epoxy anchors would be bolted through the 
existing wood ledgers and into the existing masonry walls for shear transfer to the diaphragm. 
Third, steel rods would be drilled and epoxied either into or through the historic masonry 
walls to secure them to the joists. The installation of plywood sheathing sounds unintrusive at 
first, but the proposal calls for the removal of the entire historic 2x6 roof system including the 
decking, the roof joists, and the pony walls. Perhaps the sheathing could be added to the 
bottom of the ceiling joi~ts instead, or more blocking could be added between the joists. This 
application on the third floor joists is highly intrusive and perhaps avoidable. 
With regard to epoxy anchoring into the historic unreinforced masonry wall at the floor levels 
around the perimeter of the building, the Secretary' s Standards take no exception with strictly 
interior applications that transfer the sheer from the diaphragm to the wall. However, the 
introduction of steel rods through the masonry in order to attach the diaphragm to the joists is 
not a sensitive measure and should be avoided. 
EDUCATION BUILDING HISTORIC STRUCTURES REPORT 
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PART THREE- COMMERCE HALL (EAST WING} SINGER• 98 
III. Collectors: 
The collector elements for Commerce Hall are similar to the proposal for the Education 
Building. They consist of steel channel, which run transverse through the building connecting 
the walls together and connect to the newly reinforced stairwell. They are meant to drag shear 
forces to the improved stair core. Based on the drawings included in the proposal, the steel 
channel seems to be hidden in the floor joists and the anchoring does not penetrate the outer 
wall. This seems to be a sensitively designed solution. 
V. Braces and terra cotta anchors (nonstructural) 
Steel braces are proposed to fasten the roof parapet to the roof diaphragm around the 
perimeter of the building at four feet on-center. As mentioned earlier in the report, 
Preservation Standards would recommend that the braces not be visible from the ground, 
notably from the Memorial Quadrangle. The braces are a solution, which would enable the 
-original gabled parapet with terracotta ornament to be reintroduced above the main entry. 
The nonstructural recommendations also refer to the introduction of helical or epoxy anchors 
to tie back the terracotta ornament at strategic locations on Commerce Hall's fa<;:ade and 
parapet. It would not be prudent or sensitive to the Secretary' s Standards to compromise the 
glazing or the clay body of the terra cotta ornament. The terra cotta was installed as a 
composite component \\-'.ithin the masonry walls. It was manufactured with webbing for the 
purpose of stiffening and anchorage. The engineer should investigate this installation further 
for adequate integrity regarding seismic stability. The webbing straps of the terra cotta should 
be used for any precautionary nonstructural solutions wherever possible. 
HISTORIC STRUCTURES REPORT 
EDUCATION BUILDING 
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PART THREE - COMMERCE HALL (EAST WING} SINGER• 99 
The diagrams below depict several key components of the seismic retrofitting scheme. 
FIGURE 82: PROPOSED SEISMIC UPGRADING SCHEME. 
DEGENKOLB ENGINEERS, PORTLAND 
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FIGURE 83: PROPOSAL FOR EXOPY DOWELS WITH HOOKS TO ANCHOR 6-INCH 
LA YER OF SHOTCRETE TO UNRIENFORCED MASONY BEARING WALL AT STAIRWELL. 
DEGENKOLB ENGINEERS, PORTLAND 
HISTORIC STRUCTURES REPORT 
E DUCATION BUILDING 
COMMERCE HALL 
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PART THREE - COMMERCE HALL (EAST WING) SINGER• 100 
Interior Finishes - Commerce Hall 
Commerce Hall does not retain the high degree of spatial integrity among its rooms that is 
found in the Education Building. Many of its original finishes are intact and in good, 
serviceable condition at the main entrances to the building's first and second floors, along 
several of the original hall corridors, and within the central stairwell space 
The interior finish elements which were found in good condition are located on all three floors 
of the building. The stairwell's rail, newels and balusters are in good condition, but care 
should be taken during any construction efforts within the building to protect them from 
damage. One of the most prominent historic finishes are the decorative wooden door 
surrounds with integral operable transoms, as described in the assessment section of this 
report. These doors, their surrounds, and their historic obscured glass panes should be 
retained and carefully attended to during any rehabilitation efforts to curtail any damage 
'during construction. Most of the bathroom fixtures and bathroom stalls are intact on each 
floor level. New plumbing has been incorporated throughout the life of the building but the 
ceramic fixtures have faired well. They should be retained with their original stalls where 
possible and incorporated into any upgrade of the restroom facilities. Several window bands 
are intact on interior partition walls in the first and third floor hallways. These elements 
should also be retained and protected during the rehabilitation of the interior of the structure. 
Any historic spatial dimensions should be honored by future rehabilitation efforts wherever 
possible. The structure of the building lends itself to certain wall placement opportunities 
created by Ellis Lawrence in his initial design of the building. Special consideration should be 
given to the building's main entrance and the east entry on the first floor where the spatial 
integrity has not been compromised and the major concentration of intact historic fabric 
exists. It is further recommended that the reestablishment of the third floor space that housed 
Commerce Hall's library and museum collection over the main entrance be considered for 
reinstatement. The location of the space could take advantage of the decorative arched 
fenestration above the main entry and the sixteen-foot ceilings, which still remain. Using 
Lawrence's original plans, which are held by the University Architect's Office, the 
EDUCATION BUILDING HISTORIC STRUCTURES REPORT 
COMMERCE HALL 
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PART THREE - COMMERCE HALL (EAST WING) 
SINGER• 101 
rehabilitation of these spaces could be done accurately and remedy the earlier alterations with 
relative ease. 
FIGURE 84: MAIN ENTRY FOYER ON SECOND FLOOR. 
EDUCATION BUILDING HISTORJC STRUCTURES REPORT 
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PART THREE - COMMERCE HALL (EAST WING) SINGER• 102 
FIGURE 86: ROOM 364. ALL ORIGINAL MILL WORK FIGURE 87: TYPICAL HISTORIC SECONDARY DOOR 
FIGURE 88: ORIGINAL BATHROO~ STALLS FIGURE 89: STAIRWELL WITH MOLDINGS, RAILS, BALUSTERS 
AND NEWELS 
F IGURE 90: ORIGINAL 'STANDARD' FIXTURE FIGURE 91: WINDOW BANK IN PARTITION WALL ON 3"° FLOOR 
EDUCATION BUILDING HISTORIC STRUCTURES REPORT 
COMMERCE HALL 

PART THREE - COMMERCE HALL (EAST WING} SINGER• 103 
+SUMMARY OF RECOMMENDATIONS + 
This section of the report will briefly summarize the recommendations for each of the 
building's components. The recommendations presented below reflect the author's 
interpretation of what would be the most appropriate treatment, given the conservation goal of 
preserving or reinstating character defining architectural features in accordance with the 
Secretary of Interior's Standards. 
Foundation - Commerce Hall 
a) The areas of the foundation that were accessible on the interior of the building show no 
signs of failure. However, any seismic retrofitting work through the slab-on-grade and 
other areas of the foundations will allow better inspection opportunities and should be 
monitored for cracks, settlement or rusting reinforcement. See Appendix F -
Preservation Brief 15. 
b) The cement plaster or stucco around the base of the building should be repaired before 
any further penetration and freeze thaw cycles can occur. Cracks should be filled and 
missing portions built up with a stucco mixture that matches the texture and color of the 
original material. An acrylic bonder should be applied to the subsurface before patching. 
See Appendix F - Preservation Brief 22. 
EDUCATION BUILDING HISTORIC STRUCTURES REPORT 
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PART THREE - COMMERCE HALL (EAST WING) SINGER• 104 
Entry Stairs - Commerce Hall 
a) The original configuration of the entry stairs and the landings of Commerce Hall should 
be restored. The stair defined Lawrence's carefully planned entry procession into the 
building, affording important, otherwise unavailable views of the Memorial Quadrangle 
from large elevated landings. 
b) The mortar joints between the terra cotta coping pieces need to be cleaned and the pieces 
reset. Careful attention should be paid to the mortar mix to provide a good bond between 
the coping pieces. This is a key issue because the glaze on the terra cotta is minimally 
absorptive, precluding a good bond. A water sealant should be applied to the vertical 
head joints periodically. See Appendix F - Preservation Brief 1 and 2. 
c) The chipped and spalled coping and terra cotta balusters need to be treated to halt their 
exposure to the moist environment. An acrylic based cold glaze or in-painting should be 
applied to areas of limited damage. Severely damaged pieces should be replaced in-kind. 
See Appendix F - Preservation Brief7. 
d) The bricks walls that support the landings need to be partially rebuilt in order to replace 
the corroding and expanding steel angle lintels. Many of the joints in the wall rriust have 
their mortar replaced or repointed. The mortar should be softer than the brick and match 
the absorptive quality of the brick to ensure a good bond. 
e) The new replacement lintels above the ventilation openings in the sidewalls of the stair 
should be painted with a protective epoxy coating or rust inhibitor. 
EDUCATION BUILDING HISTORIC STRUCTURES REPORT 
COMMERCE HALL 
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PART THREE- COMMERCE HALL (EAST WING) SINGER• 105 
Exterior Walls - Commerce Hall 
a) It is recommended at this time that the upper portion of the building be cleaned. Vines 
that once covered the lower floors of the building may have affected some mortar joints 
in the past and should be removed. See Appendix F - Preservation Brief 1 and 2 
b) Selective re-pointing should occur in areas of the building that appear to be failing. 
Problematic areas include the head joints in the rowlock windowsills, and the terracotta 
coping and belt courses, which have difficultly retaining a good bond due to their glazed 
surfaces. 
c) The build-up of algae on the underside of the parapet coping needs to be cleaned to 
prevent further growth and help re-establish the drip edge in order to divert water from 
the wall surface. This will serve to avoid damage to the newly repointed mortar joints. 
d) Chips in the terracotta coping along the parapet that were in-painted with an enamel-like 
paint are peeling. These areas need to be cleaned and in-painted properly. See Appendix 
F - Preservation Brief 7. 
e) Graffiti should be removed by the gentlest means possible. Small test patches should be 
used prior to larger applications. See Appendix F - Preservation Brief 3 8. 
f) Above the main entry on the west elevation, the copper coping that protects the cavity 
wall is in good condition but counter flashing around the coping is diverting water toward 
the building. This area needs to be re-flashed correctly. 
g) The l to 2 inch holes on the north side of the east elevation should be filled with colored 
mortar and the pins removed if possible or left in place and protected from corrosion if 
the fire escape is not to be reinstated. 
HISTORIC STRUCTURES REPORT 
E DUCATION BUILDING 
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PART THREE - COMMERCE HALL (EAST WING) SINGER• 106 
h) It is imperative that the terracotta ornament not have its protective glaze or the clay body 
compromised by efforts to reinforce it within the masonry wall assembly by epoxy 
dowels or other intrusive elements. The stability of the pieces, which are composite 
within the masonry assembly, should be investigated further. Methods of anchoring from 
the back should be examined if this is not sufficient. All the terra cotta units produced for 
this building have webbing in their hollow backside with punched holes, to provide 
anchoring and rigidity. 
i) The window and door lintels need to be periodically monitored for signs of distress, and 
regularly repainted. 
j) The concrete window well retaining walls around the first floor window groups need to 
be monitored for signs of movement and corrosion of the reinforcing steel. The thin 
cracks in the outer surface should be patched. The small drains at the center of the 
window wells need to be kept clear of leaves and debris to prevent ponding and the 
danger of water infiltration. See Appendix F - Preservation Brief 15 and 39. 
1) The high-pressure sodium lamps that flank the entry should be removed. New fixtures 
should be replicated using photographic evidence of the historic lanterns. All other 
lighting fixtures should be consistent in style yet not misrepresent themselves as historic. 
The new fixtures should use the original mounting holes and not further compromise the 
building envelope. 
m) The gable-end parapet wall should be reinstated following the Secretary of Interior's 
Standards for Reconstruction. The cascading corbelled arches should be reconstructed as 
part of this work. The original terra cotta ornament should be installed and anchored in a 
sensitive manner, and replacement tiles should be crafted to match the size and color of 
the originals. The roof pitch should be duplicated, and any additional seismic 
stabilization efforts should be designed in a manner sensitive to the integrity of the 
masonry wall. See Appendix F - Preservation Brief 30. 
EDUCATION BUILDING HISTORIC STRUCTURES REPORT 
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PART THREE - COMMERCE HALL (EAST WING) SINGER• 107 
Roofing - Commerce Hall 
a) The attachment of the new roofing membrane to the bottom lip of the terracotta coping 
should be left intact and any future roof repair should note the potential failure of the 
fastening system. Drilling through the coping to insert lead expansion fasteners has must 
be avoided during future repairs or installation. See Appendix F - Preservation Brief 4. 
b) The sheet copper flashing around the inside of the parapet wall might not be allowing the 
brick parapet to breath properly and may be causing excessive moisture buildup behind it. 
Therefore, it is recommended that the rivets be drilled out in several sections in order to 
make and accurate assessment and evaluation for recommended treatment. 
HISTORIC STRUCTURES REPORT 
E DUCATION BUILDING 
C OMMERCE HALL 
,•.-,!". .! '"''!'''"• .. •·.••••. . •••j 1 .".;,,,,-l\_ 
:~ 
r··::;." . _: , .....,  _.. ..... :~ ·:~··.::..:.~ 
LL:IL■IIII 
PART THREE - COMMERCE HALL (EAST WING) SINGER• 108 
Fenestration: Windows, Doors and Skylights - Commerce Hall 
a) The accessible windows and both sets of entry doors on Commerce Hall were found to be 
in good serviceable condition. The scope of this report however, only provided for a 
preliminary inspection to a handful of the windows in each building. Therefore, it is 
recommended that a complete inspection be given to every opening in the building's 
envelope. Inspections should examine the wooden sashes, the lintels, the glass and 
glazing, the operable mechanisms and the locking mechanisms. A window and door 
schedule should be assembled to document the condition of each of these elements in 
order to establish specific problems and overall patterns of deterioration. Problems to 
identify include water penetration, corrosion, paint failure, rot and broken parts or 
mechanisms. Sensitive, non-intrusive solutions, which meet the Secretary of the Interior's 
Standards for Preservation, should be use in every repair. See Appendix F - Preservation 
Brief 9, 10 and 24. 
EDUCATION BUILDING HISTORIC STRUCTURES REPORT 
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PART THREE - COMMERCE HALL (EAST WING) SINGER• 109 
Structure - Commerce Hall 
a) The application of the shotcrete to the interior of the unreinforced masonry wall around 
the stairwell should be held back the at least one half wythe from the door locations to 
retain the architectural character of the wall plane. Examine an engineered solution. See 
Appendix F - Preservation Brief 41. 
b) A void the removal of the original 2x6 roof structure for the installation of the third floor ' s 
diaphragm. If possible, place the sheathing that forms the diaphragm on the bottom side 
of the third floor ceiling joists or install blocking from below. 
c) Do not install steel rods or epoxy dowels through the exterior unreinforced brick 
masonry walls. Epoxy dowels are acceptable on the inside of the masonry walls, so long 
as they do not break the exterior surface. 
d) The installation of the shear collector elements are recommended as presented in the 
original proposal. 
e) Design the parapet wall-bracing system to be minimally intrusive to the unreinforced 
brick masonry and hide it below the parapet level. 
f) Do not compromise the glaze surface or the body of the terracotta pieces with intrusive 
doweling. Reinforce the terracotta with new mortar. 
E DUCATION BUILDING HISTORIC STRUCTURES REPORT 
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PART THREE - COMMERCE HALL (EAST WING) SINGER• 110 
Interior Finishes - Commerce Hall 
a) Any rehabilitation plans for Commerce Hall should respect the spatial integrity of the few 
spaces that remain uncompromised, including the main entrance on the second floor, the 
stairwell, and the first floors east entry and adjacent hall. The concentration of historic 
fabric in these areas, warrant extra care when construction activities are in progress. See 
Appendix F -Preservation Brief 14 and 18. 
b) It is strongly recommended that the finishes in the stairwell be protected with plywood 
during the construction phase of any rehabilitation project in the building. 
c) It is recommended that the reestablishment of the third floor space that housed Commerce 
Hall ' s library and museum collection over the main entrance be considered. The space 
could take advantage of the decorative arched fenestration above the main entry and the 
sixteen-foot ceilings that still remain. The original plans are available at the through 
Facility Services. 
d) The historic bathroom fixtures should be maintained and incorporated into any 
rehabilitation project planned for Commerce Hall. 
f) All historic hardware, doors, and decorative historic door surrounds with operable 
transoms should be retained and preserved in good working order. See Appendix F ---: 
Preservation Brief 14 and 18. 
EDUCATION BUILDING HISTORIC STRUCTURES REPORT 
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,.,,· .... ,.  ..:-··:_• .. · ..... _.: .. ,. . ·i, -
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APPENDIX A - CRITICAL DESIGN ANALYSIS OF THE CONTEMPORARY ADDITION 
SINGER•A 
APPENDIX A 
CRITICAL DESIGN ANALYSIS OF THE CONTEMPORARY ADDITION 
EDUCATION BUILDING HISTORIC STRUCTURE REPORT 
COMMERCE HALL 
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APPENDIX A - CRITICAL DESIGN ANALYSIS OF THE CONTEMPORARY ADDITION SINGER•Al 
CRITICAL DESIGN ANALYSIS OF THE CONTEMPORARY ADDITION 
Introduction 
The attachment of additions to historic buildings and structures has been the subject of 
continuous debate, and a number of articles and policies have attempted to address the issues 
surrounding the topic. An addition which attaches to two historic buildings that are part of a 
major ensemble will ultimately yield many more repercussions. There are serious 
implications and site-specific issues regarding additions to the ensemble of buildings that 
surround Ellis Lawrence's Memorial Quadrangle on the University of Oregon campus. The 
goal of this examination is to extrapolate useful information which could affect the historic 
structures and the site in the future. The redesign of the connecting addition to the Education 
and Commerce buildings proposes a net gain of 55,000 to 60,000 square feet, resulting in a 
significant change to the footprint, massing, and architectural expression of the current 
, structure. 
There exists a general consensus among the professional planners, architects and other people 
concerned with the stewardship of the Education Building ~nd Commerce Hall, that the 1951 
Commonwealth addition does not compliment the ensemble of buildings or the original 
intentions of the historic campus plans. However thorough the planning and design processes 
were in 1951, this consensus indicates that the questions, concerns, and programmatic 
requirements set for the design did not fully explore the historic context of the site. 
The following discussion will briefly examine the design and context of the Commonwealth 
addition. Part of the examination will include a critique of the addition' s impact on the 
integrity of the historic buildings and the character of the site. Based on the results of the 
examination, a set of recommendations will be prepared. The recommendations are intended 
to identify sensitive design issues and potential solutions for the current Gilbert addition 
project. The design recommendations will be based on guidelines extrapolated from the 
National Park Service's Technical Preservation Brief 14, New Exterior Additions to Historic 
Buildings: Preservation Concerns. These guidelines adhere strictly to the Secretary of the 
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APPENDIX A - CRITICAL DESIGN ANALYSIS OF THE CONTEMPORARY ADDITION SINGER• A2 
Interior's Standards for Rehabilitation. The campus-specific planning and design guidelines, 
outlined in the 1991 Long Range Campus Development Plan, will also be employed to 
formulate design recommendations. 
Preservation Brief#14 
The attachment of an addition onto an existing historic structure should only be considered 
after it has been determined that the programmatic or spatial constraints of an existing 
building cannot meet future demands or changes in use. The Gilbert Hall complex currently 
provides over 2,800 classroom seats and dozens of offices. Many of those spaces however, 
are cramped and do not provide state-of-the-art teaching and working space. Preservation 
Brief#14 outlines three key points regarding the protection and preservation of historic 
buildings that cannot accommodate new changes in spatial and technology requirements. The 
key points to consider when building an addition include: 
1) Preservation of historic materials and features 
2) Preservation of historic character 
3) Protection of historic significance 
1) The first point specifically identifies significant historic materials and features which 
are present on both the Education and Commerce buildings, including architectural terra cotta 
and ornamental brick~ork. Many features are significant on these buildings, including 
decorative wooden window sashes, architectural metals, historic concrete stairs and landings, 
and several historic interior partition walls with original doors and operable transoms. 
Preservation Brief#14 outlines the protection and preservation of these features with two 
strategies. The first strategy involves simply minimizing the loss of historic material from 
external walls and internal floor plans. The second strategy is to avoid constructing an 
addition on a primary or other character defining devation. 
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APPENDIX A - CRITICAL DESIGN ANALYSIS OF THE CONTEMPORARY ADDITION SINGER•A3 
Three solutions are offered in Brief#14: 
a) Reduce the overall size of the new addition. 
b) Limit the size and number of openings between the old and new 
buildings. 
c) Attach the new addition to the historic block by means of a link or 
connector. 
2) The second point in Preservation Brief 14, identifies several of the physical aspects of 
historic buildings which are essential to preserving historic character. These character 
defining aspects include the building's shape, materials, features, craftsmanship, window 
arrangements, color, setting, and interior. Once the character defining components are 
identified, the Secretary of Interior's Standards for Rehabilitation specifies that the new 
addition must be compatible with the size, color, material and the character of the building to 
which it is attached. These recommendations also address the proportions and massing of the 
new addition. There are no steadfast rules set forth for square or cubic foot ratios in 
Preservation Brief#l4, but it does recommend that the existing building's proportions, site 
and setting should establish the basic parameters for the design of a new addition. Several 
other recommendations regarding the preservation of historic character are offered including 
the following: 
a) Accurately.assess the relationship between the actual size and the relative 
scale of the buildings under consideration so as not to over power the 
historic structure. 
b) Construct the new addition on a secondary side or rear elevation. 
c) If the addition is to be attached to a primary elevation, set back the 
attachment from the existing structure's wall plane so the outer edges, 
which define the historic form are still present. 
3) Protecting the historic significance of an older structure, or making a visual distinction 
between historic structures and their additions, has been an issue subject to intense debate. 
Design is a subjective topic, where often one person's tastes do not necessarily match those of 
another. Preservation Brief#14 recommends that a new addition be planned in a way that 
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APPENDIX A - CRITICAL DESIGN ANALYSIS OF THE CONTEMPORAR y ADDITION SINGER•A4 
discerns the new work from the older buildings with differentiation in materials, color and 
details. However, care should be taken in the design process, enabling the new addition to 
compliment the historic building, the existing setting, and immediate site. The main concern 
here is with the issue of authenticity. The brief states that it is conceivable for a small 
addition to be replicative without changing the older structure's historic character. Several 
areas for differentiating the older structure from the new are outlined in the text including: 
a. Set backs on wall planes 
b. Different roof lines and cornice heights 
c. Variations in siding exposures 
d. Similar but discernable materials for ornament 
e. Variations in window types. 
The key points listed in Preservation Brief 14 outline many strategies which have been 
adopted by the 1991 LRCDP, and offer solutions which can be tailored to the specific needs 
of most building additions. In order to examine the specific issues revolving around the 
proposed addition to the Gilbert complex, an understanding of the existing Commonwealth 
addition is necessary. 
The Commonwealth Addition in Context 
In 1951, the 46th regular session of the Oregon Legislative Assembly adopted a resolution 
which included the provision of $700,000 from the General Fund for "The purposes of 
planning, altering, repairing, adding to, furnishing or equipping the Business Administration 
building at the University of Oregon." The majority of the appropriation was earmarked for 
the Commonwealth addition. The Portland architecture firm of Wick and Hilgers was retained 
for the design portion of the contract, with Bickford Construction Company as the General 
Contractor. The Commonwealth addition connected to the historic Education and Commerce 
buildings on their northern facade. The northern facade of the Education and Commerce 
buildings prominently faced Ellis Lawrence's grand entry gates until they were obscured by 
the addition. "Dads Gates", were sited on axis with Lawrence's Memorial Quadrangle. The 
Commonwealth addition joined an elegant ensemble of six buildings surrounding the 
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APPENDIX A - CRITICAL DESIGN ANALYSIS OF THE CONTEMPORAR y ADDITION SINGER•A5 
Memorial Quadrangle, which Lawrence designed and built between 1916 and 1937. Today 
the Commonwealth addition sits prominently at the southern edge of the quadrangle perfectly 
aligned with the historic Knight Library. 
For the past forty-nine years, the Commonwealth Addition has helped to define the character 
of the north end of the Memorial Quadrangle and the coherent outdoor spaces in its vicinity. 
The quality of the outdoor spaces created by the Commonwealth have matured into landscape 
features that have impacted the way people use and interact with the original planning 
concepts and the historic buildings. Site-specific campus planning policies for Area 11, as 
outlined by the 1991 LRCDP, have been developed around the salient characteristics of these 
outdoor spaces. The Commonwealth addition has established an understood preconception 
about what type of schematic building plan best meets the programmatic needs of the 
connection between the historic buildings and satisfactorily addresses historic planning efforts 
, at the northern end of the Quadrangle. This is evidenced by the similarities of the new 
schematic design developed by the SRG Partnership architects, and its subsequent approval by 
the Campus Planning Committee. However, there is a general consensus that the 
Commonwealth's modern aesthetic is discordant with the historic structures on the site, and 
chokes the visual continuity of Ellis Lawrence' s axial promenade. 
It is important to note that the Commonwealth addition is approaching the fifty-year mark 
when buildings are c~nsidered historic. The aesthetic of the Commonwealth does reflect a 
common Modernist idiom visible throughout the campus and the City of Eugene. So, is the 
Commonwealth addition worthy of preservation? 
The author mentions this in order to make a point about the expected lifespan of a building. 
This perception is as much a cultural issue as it is an issue of economics. The Commonwealth 
addition is a Modernist expression. The Moderni:;t Movement, supported by the sweeping 
ideals of Urban Renewal, believed in the obsolescence of buildings and styles. Change was 
celebrated. My point is that the University of Oregon cannot plan for obsolescence in its 
buildings, especially those on the Memorial Quadrangle. A building at such a prominent 
location must be built to last. 
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APPENDIX A - CRITICAL DESIGN ANALYSIS OF THE CONTEMPORARY ADDITION SINGER•A6 
Design Assessment and Evaluation 
The design of the Commonwealth addition employs some typical Modernist ideas. The 
building's straightforward rectangular plan and massing is important to its stylistic expression. 
The massing affords clean, unbroken lines on the building's exterior. The addition is 
composed of a three story horizontal rectangular form spanning approximately 170 feet, book-
ended by simple rectangular stair towers. Little relief is incorporated into the exterior 
expression of the building's envelope. The envelope is primarily composed of brick veneer 
and steel sash windows with metal panels. The brick is assembled in a simple running bond 
pattern with no variation. The windows are operable. They sit almost flush with the exterior 
walls of the building, enhancing the broad, continuous surface of the exterior. On the south 
elevation facing the Memorial Quadrangle, the second and third floors are composed entirely 
of windows set into a frame of thin concrete panels. The stair tower walls that face the central 
courtyard on the south elevation are composed of brick on one side, and typical steel sash 
windows with metal panels on the other, creating a very stark, almost industrial aesthetic. 
In contrast to the Education Building and Commerce Hall, the Commonwealth uses minimal 
ornamentation. On the south elevation which faces the Memorial Quadrangle, a set of six 
large cylindrical concrete columns with no bases or capitals provide support for the 
cantilevered floors above. These columns punctuate the ground floor massing, helping to 
identify the location of the otherwise inconspicuous entrances to the building. The entrances 
have low profile, brushed stainless steel thresholds with side lights. They are located off of a 
brick paved breezeway at the center of the first floor. The breezeway is a severe twenty-two 
foot wide rectangular space with white stucco finish. It provides the only entry from Dad's 
Gates to the heart of the campus along Ellis Lawrence's historic axial scheme. Large 
aluminum letters which read 'Commonwealth' were located above the breezeway. The 
signage was removed when the name of the building was changed to Gilbert Hall. Smaller 
metal letters now spell out Business Administration and Social Sciences across the top of the 
breezeway. 
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The massing is repeated on the north elevation, facing Dad's Gates. The central rectangular 
portion of the building, which measures approximately 125 feet, has continuous steel sash 
windows across the breadth of the fat;ade on each floor. The large rectangular forms that 
flank the north elevation have no window fenestration to break the plane of their walls, which 
span approximately 40 feet. The only ornamentation on the north elevation are the large 
historic terracotta roundels depicting the Seal of the State and the University, which flank the 
building at the third floor level. 
The east and west elevations employ a similar architectural vocabulary. The stair tower and 
connecting link or passageway to the Education Building and Commerce Hall are clearly 
visible on these elevations. The connection to the historic structures was limited to the nine-
foot width required for circulation between the buildings. The wall surface where the 
Commonwealth attaches to the center of the northern facades of the historic buildings was 
, richly detailed with finely crafted brickwork including corbelled arches, various bond patterns, 
and handcrafted ornamental terracotta. Brick pilasters with symbolic motifs detailing the 
bases and capitals now flank the connecting passageway A two inch wide expansion joint is 
visible at the seam where the buildings meet, however, the buildings are not structurally 
connected. 
FIGURE 93: STAIR TOWER 
FIGURE 92: SOUTH ELEVATION OF COMMONWEALTH 
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APPENDIX A - CRITICAL DESIGN ANALYSIS OF THE CONTEMPORAR y ADDITION SINGER•A8 
FIGURE 94: NORTH ELEVATION OF COMMONWEALTH FIGURE 95: BREEZEWAY 
Assessment and Evaluation of Outdoor Spaces 
The Commonwealth has helped to define three important outdoor spaces. The open courtyard 
to the south, which is essentially framed by the Gilbert complex, is paved with concrete and 
' surrounded by a variety of trees. The courtyard looks out on to the Memorial Quadrangle. 
The breezeway of the Commonwealth addition converts travel through the space into a 
shortcut rather than a primary path of circulation. Compounding the secondary nature of the 
path is the lack of benches or seating areas in the courtyard. People who use the space 
sometimes sit on the stairs leading to the entry of the historic buildings. 
The open space to the North, towards Dad' s Gates, is essentially grass, bordered by sidewalks 
and the row of Douglas-Firs trees that lead to the entrance of Deady Hall. Classes meet on the 
grass in clear weather and people sit and read in the afternoons. From this open space it is 
difficult to have a clear perspective of the axial geometry beyond the Commonwealth. 
To the east of the Gilbert complex is the third outdoor space, which is oriented along a paved 
concrete sidewalk and an asphalt path running parallel to the edge of Commerce Hall. The 
sidewalk begins at Deady Hall and goes past Fenton to connect to Thirteenth street. The quiet 
backsides of the buildings along the sidewalk provide a quality place to sit and study, and also 
a buffer from the campus traffic. Several benches and a set of steps provide outdoor seating in 
the space. There are a variety of plantings and several large trees along the path and the 
sidewalk. Further to the east of the sidewalk is a secondary, more secluded space with a 
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APPENDIX A - CRITICAL DESIGN ANALYSIS OF THE CONTEMPORARY ADDITION SINGER•A9 
fountain. The primary handicap access to the Commonwealth addition and Commerce Hall is 
located off of this outdoor space. 
FIGURE 96: MEMORIAL QUAD. LOOKING SOUTH FROM THE FIGURE 97: CENTRAL COURTYARD TO THE SOUTH 
COMMONWEALT H ADDITION TO THE SOUTH 
FIGURE 99: GRASSY OPEN SPACE TO THE NORTH 
FIGURE 98: 2ND EMPIRE STYLE DEADY HALL 
FIGURE 101: FENTON HALL TO THE EAST 
FIGURE 100: QUIET BACKSIDE TO THE EAST 
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APPENDIX A - CRITICAL DESIGN ANALYSIS OF THE CONTEMPORARY ADDITION SINGER•AI0 
Design Recommendations 
In applying the guidelines from Preservation Brief #14 and the 1991 LRCDP to the 
Commonwealth addition, a number of positive and negative design issues became apparent. 
The design recommendations in the following table will attempt to provide solutions which 
address these issues. It is expected that these recommendations will have a positive impact on 
the sensitivity of the redesign of the addition to the Education Building and Commerce Hall. 
# Design Issues Recommendations 
I The Commonwealth addition has outgrown Any prominent addition to the Memorial Quadrangle 
its useful service to the University and should be designed with a high degree of permanence. 
become obsolete. Building systems, components, and materials should be 
chosen for their serviceability and longevity. 
2 The Commonwealth addition limited the Limit the new addition 's connection onto the historic 
size of its connection to the historic structures to the area already impacted. Brick pilasters 
structures, reducing the need for removal with ornamental terracotta capitals, which historically 
of valuable historic fabric . defined the fa9ade, now flank the connection and are in 
danger of being compromised. 
3 The connection between the Maintain the structural independence of the buildings 
Commonwealth addition and the historic unless it is required for life and safety reasons. 
buildings remained structurally 
independent limiting the impact to the 
historic buildings. 
4 The Commonwealth addition assisted in Match the new floor levels to those in the historic 
providing ADA 11ccess to the upper floors buildings. The altered corridor spaces are cramped and 
of the historic buildings. However, the the ramps should be removed. Circulation between the 
floor levels are not similar, creating the buildings needs to address the convoluted pathways 
need for ramps and stairs in the historic established by the Commonwealth. 
buildings. 
5 The massing of the Commonwealth If the new addition is four or more stories, it should 
addition, which is limited to three stories, step down or back. Breaking up the plane of the top 
does not over power the scale of the story could alleviate problems with scale and 
historic buildings. proportion. 
6 The breezeway chokes the visual Open the breezeway both vertically and horizontally if 
continuity of the historic axis from Dad's possible. If the new addition encloses the space, 
Gates, through the Memorial Quadrangle provide visual elements on the exterior and interior that 
to Knight Library. enhance the essence of the axial flow through the space, 
and sufficient glazing to provide visual continuity. 
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7 The style and architectural vocabulary of Use architectural detailing and materials that are 
the Commonwealth addition did not complimentary to the eclectic Mediterranean style of 
attempt to address the historic structures. the buildings. Do not mimic the original forms or 
details exactly. These details should include 
horizontally layered brick and buff toned materials, and 
could include low-pitched clay tile roof elements. Other 
materials recommended include, stone, tile, cast stone, 
terracotta, pigmented cast-concrete, wood and cast 
iron. 
8 The connecting passageways which link Maintain the historic building edge by delimiting the 
the Commonwealth addition to the connection. This will help to minimizing the massing 
Education Building and Commerce Hall of the overall complex, but more importantly it will 
were stepped back from the wall plane of preserve the processional character originally planned 
the historic structures. by Lawrence. This will also help to clearly identity the 
historic building edges. 
9 The long, unbroken wall planes of the Break up the wall planes of the new addition to reduce 
Commonwealth addition are out of the potential dominance over the historic structures and 
character with the scale and massing of the the site. The historic buildings have strong, layered 
historic buildings. horizontal emphasis. 
10 The Commonwealth addition uses Design window fenestration more sensitive to the 
continuous, horizontally banded windows historic buildings in terms of size, orientation and 
with steel sashes and metal panels. materials. However, do not mimic the historic 
windows. 
II The Commonwealth addition has no The dominance of the entrances to the Education 
clearly defined main entrance. Building and Commerce Hall should be balanced in a 
hierarchical order with the new addition. Make a 
statement but do not over power the historic entrances, 
rather compliment them. 
12 The siting of the.Commonwealth helps to Design strong building edges in order to render a clear 
create coherent larger outdoor spaces, on message about the continuation of the historic axis 
the north towards Dad's Gates, and the through the building, out into these coherent outdoor 
south towards the Memorial Quadrangle. spaces. The building's footprint should define not 
impose upon the open spaces. 
13 The Commonwealth addition maintains its Schematic plans for the new addition extend further 
footprint within Lawrence's primary east toward Deady and Fenton. The new addition 
historic axis. Therefore, it limits the effect should respect these historic structures, and maintain a 
on surrounding buildings and outdoor reasonable distance. 
spaces. 
14 The terra cotta components for the historic Dejgn scenarios for the new addition should consider 
gable-end parapet on the Education these stylistic elements, which may be reinstated. 
Building and Commerce Hall have been 
located and there is a possibility that these 
parapet walls will be reconstructed. 
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APPENDIX B - CATALOGUE OF RECOVERED TERRA COTT A SINGER• B 
APPENDIXB 
CATALOGUE OF RECOVERED TERRA COTTA 
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APPENDIX B - CATALOGUE OF RECOVERED TERRA COTT A SINGER• Bl 
FIGURE 102: STAIR VAULT 
Hidden access to the stair 
vault of the Education 
Building was found off the 
mechanical room, 112. The 
terra cotta was found in this 
space. A pilaster capital and a 
stack of terra cotta roofing tiles 
are pictured in the foreground. 
FIGURE 103: PILASTER CAPITAL 
Type: Pilaster capital 
Number: 1 each 
Glazing: Glazed buff clay body 
Size: 27"x15 ½" x 14" 
Condition: Good condition 
Original Location: Extra piece 
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APPENDIX B - CATALOGUE OF RECOVERED TERRA CorrA  SINGER• B2 
FIGURE 104: CROWN PIECE 
Type: Crown piece 
Number: 3 total (1 pictured) 
Glazing: Unglazed red clay body 
Size: 27"x17"x19" at front 
Condition: Good Condition 
Original Location: Commerce 
FIGURE 105: CROWN PIECE 
Type: Crown pieces 
Number: 2 Pictured 
Glazing: Unglazed red clay body 
Size: 27"x17'15" at center 
Condition: Good condition 
Original Location: Commerce 
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APPENDIX 8 - CATALOGUE OF RECOVERED TERRA COTT A SINGER• 83 
FIGURE 106: ROOFING TILES 
Type: Roofing tiles 
Number: Approx. 100 each 
Glazing: Unglazed extruded 
Size: 16"x6 ½"x ½" 
Condition: Good to poor 
Original Location: Commerce 
FIGURE 107: EAVE CAP 
Type: Eave cap 
Number: 2 each 
Glazing: Unglazed red clay body 
Size: 19"xl2"x8 ½" 
Condition: Good condition 
Original Location: Commerce 
FIGURE 108: EAVE CAP 
Type: Eave cap 
Number: 4 each 
Glazing: Unglazed red clay body 
Size: 23"x9"x8 ½" 
Condition: Good condition 
Original Location: Commerce 
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FIGURE 109: QUATREFOIL IN RELIEF 
Type: Quatrefoil in relief 
Number: 1 each 
Glazing: Glazed buff clay body 
Size: 10 ½" square x 4" 
Condition: Good 
Original Location: Extra piece 
FIGURE 110: QUAT REFOIL INSET 
Type: Quatrefoil inset 
Number: 9 each 
Glazing: Glazed buff clay body 
Size: 8" square x 4" 
Condition: Good to fair 
Original Location: Commerce 
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APPENDIX B - CATALOGUE OF RECOVERED TERRA COTT A SINGER• 85 
FIGURE 111: BELT COURSE PIECE 
Type: Belt course piece 
Number: 2 each 
Glazing: Glazed buff clay body 
Size: 18"x 10 ½"x7" 
Condition: Fair (chipped) 
Original Location: Extra piece 
FIGURE 112: BELT COURSE PIECE 
Type: Belt course piece 
Number: 2 each 
Glazing: Glazed buff clay body 
Size: 15"x12"x7'' 
Condition: Fair (chipped) 
Original Location: Commerce 
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FIGURE 113: BALUSTER 
Type: Baluster 
Number: 2 each 
Glazing: Glazed buff clay body 
Size: 27''x6"x6" 
Condition: Good condition 
Original Location: Extra piece 
FIGURE 114: PILASTER SECTION 
Type: Pilaster section 
Number: 2 each 
Glazing: Glazed buff clay body 
Size: 15"xl l"x6" radius 
Condition: Fair (chipped) 
Original Location: Education 
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FIGURE 115: CORNER DETAIL 
Type: Comer detail 
Number: 4 each 
Glazing: Glazed buff clay body 
Size: 5 ½" isosceles 
Condition: Good condition 
Original Location: Commerce 
FIGURE 116: CORNER DETAIL 
Type: Comer detail 
Number: 1 each 
Glazing: Glazed buff clay body 
Size: 10" isosceles curved hypo. 
Condition: Good condition 
Original Location: Extra 
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A BRIEF DISCUSSION ABOUT TERRA COTT A 
Architectural terra cotta was used in the construction of five historic buildings on the 
University of Oregon campus. Ellis Lawrence designed four of these including Chapman 
Hall (1937), Condon Hall (1921), Commerce Hall (1921), and the Education Building (1916). 
He advised Architect William C. Knighton on the design of the fifth, Johnson Hall (1914), 
historically known as the Administration Building. Architectural terra cotta afforded 
Lawrence and Knighton great freedom for artistic expression in the design of these buildings. 
Use of the material on these earliest structures has become critical to the salient architectural 
character of the campus. The extensive use of the material at the academic core of the 
university exemplifies the expanding role of terra cotta in shaping the urban environment in 
other Pacific Northwest cities and elsewhere in the United States. 1 
The architectural terra cotta catalogued in the previous pages was found while investigating 
the settlement of the main entry stair of the Education Building. Most of the terracotta found 
was associated with Commerce Hall, either taken from the gable-end parapet during its 
removal in 1951, or as extra pieces provided by the manufacturer at the date of construction. 
All Commerce Hall pieces are inscribed with the job number 1284. The individual roof tiles 
have no markings. The reconstruction of the gable-end parapets of both the Education 
Building and Commerce Hall was at the center of much debate in the early stages of the 
schematic design for the replacement of the connecting addition. When these pieces were 
found, a greater interest developed and planning for their reconstruction became increasingly 
imminent. Therefore, it has become especially important to understand the material's 
characteristics and briefly document the manufacturer's contribution to the building's original 
construction. 
Two companies began producing architectural terra cotta on the Pacific coast in the late 
1880's. These were N. Clark and Sons of WP-st Alameda, California and Gladding, McBean 
The Mcdonald Theater and the US Post Office are good examples of the use of architectural terra 
cotta on small scale commercial and civic buildings in Eugene. Portland, Tacoma, Seattle and 
several California cities including Sacramento, San Francisco and Los Angeles have many smaller 
buildings and large skyscraper' s which exemplify the application of terra cotta. Consult the 
attached bibliography in this appendix for further investigation. 
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in Lincoln, California. Ellis Lawrence contracted the N. Clark and Sons company to 
manufacture the terracotta components for Commerce Hall. The N. Clark and Sons company 
was founded by Nehemiah Clark in 1882 after he came across a vast clay deposit while 
searching for gold in the Sutter's Fort area outside Sacramento. The 1870 California census 
listed four potters living in Clark's house, producing 'jugs' and other traditionally thrown 
pottery. By 1898 the company had relocated to Alameda, built a new factory and began 
producing architectural terracotta. The N. Clark and Sons company was praised within the · 
terracotta manufacturing industry at the tum-of-the-century, reputed as having "the finest 
architectural terracotta departments on the Pacific Coast, thoroughly modem in every 
respect."2 
Terracotta, from the Latin translation meaning "cooked earth," is a high grade of weathered or 
aged clay which, when mixed with sand or pulverized fired clay (grog), can be molded and fired 
at high temperatures to a hardness and compactness not obtainable with brick."3 The relatively 
recent history of architectural terracotta production in the United States began in the last 
quarter of the 19th century and the popularity of the material lasted until the mid 1930s. 
During the past hundred years in the United States, terra cotta has been used in the manufacture 
of several distinct types of ceramic construction products including brownstone, fireproof 
construction, ceramic veneer and architectural terra cotta. The basic differences between these 
terra cotta products include the grade of clay, the forming techniques such as casting, molding 
and extrusion, the application of glazes and slips and the final firing specifications. The most 
complex type ofterra cotta is termed "architectural terracotta," which is the type used in the 
Education Building and Commerce Hall. 
Tests on terra cotta's physical and mechanical properties have been refined since the late 1800s. 
Beginning in 1897, a civil engineer named F.E. Kidder, made one of the first attempts at 
2 Walter Geer, The Story of Terra Cotta. (New York: Tobias A. Wright, 1920) 
3 D. P. Tiller. "The Preservation of Historic Glazed Architectural Terra cotta," Preservation Brief 7, 
Technical Preservation Services Division, Heritage Conservation and Recreation Service, (Washington, 
DC: US Government Printing Office, 1979). 
EDUCATION BUILDING HISTORIC STRUCTURE REPORT 
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APPENDIX B - CATALOGUE OF RECOVERED TERRA COTTA  SINGER• BIO 
publishing a set oftest results for "properly burned" terracotta including compressive strength, 
density, working strength and abrasion resistance.4 The scientific explanation of how the clay 
manufacturing process directly imparted these qualities was still a gray area. In 1927, the 
National Terra Cotta Society produced a set of specifications, which specifically noted the lack 
of scientific knowledge "to write either quality clauses in terms of crushing strengths, densities 
and elasticity, specifications for tests."5 Not until 1961 did the Architectural Terra Cotta Institute 
publish minimum and maximum values for physical and mechanical properties of ceramic 
veneer identifying only compressive strength, absorption, and saturation coefficients. Because 
of the lack of standards and specifications among manufacturers, conservation efforts on historic 
buildings lack a benchmark for expected physical characteristics and properties. The most 
comprehensive testing done historically was performed in the late 1920's by H.G. Schurecht, 
Senior Research Associate with the National Terra Cotta Society. Schurecht compiled an 
obscure Confidential Special Report "J" for the National Bureau of Standards, specifically based 
on the performance ofN. Clark and Sons terracotta spanning 20 years. 6 The report remarks on 
the durable quality ofN. Clark and Sons terracotta in warm climates, but found it to fail in areas 
where freeze thaw cycles were prevalent. 
The architectural terra cotta for the Education Building and Commerce Hall was traditionally 
manufactured by hand pressing clay into a negative plaster mold. A Slip-cast method was 
employed for the encased balusters at the entry landings. The plaster molds were cast from 
original clay sculpture, designed oversized to account for the shrinkage associated with the firing 
process. The initial drying shrinkage released the clay from the mold, and the exposed face was 
then carved and finished accordingly. Vertical clay straps, called webbing, were added at the 
back for stiffness, bearing strength, and erection purposes. The pieces recovered from the 
4 F. E. Kidder, Building Construction and Superintendance: Part I; Mason 's Work (New York: 
William T. Comstock, 1897). 
5 This observation, and the reference to F. E. Kidder' s experiments were taken from a contemporary 
review of standard specifications for terracotta in: S. M. Tindall, "How to prepare project specific 
terracotta specifications", APT Bulletin, Vol. XXI, No. I, pp 26-36, 1989.; The National Terra Cotta 
Society. Terra Cotta Standard Construction, rev. ed., (New York: National Terra Cotta Society, 
1927). 
6 The National Bureau of Standards, Confidential Special Report "J ", Compiled by H.G Schurecht 
(Washington, D.C. : August 17, /927J 
EDUCATION BUILDING HISTORIC STRUCTURE REPORT 
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APPENDIX B - CATALOGUE OF RECOVERED TERRA COTTA  SINGER• Bl I 
parapet were left unglazed and treated with a clay slip. The slip is essentially a thin mixture of 
clay and water that is applied to the dried piece before firing. The other pieces were finished 
with a vitrified, impenneable, glazed surface. Often times, as in the case of the Education 
Building and Commerce Hall, glazes were designed to visually imitate different types of stone. 
The glazing on the Education Building and Commerce Hall are a close match in color, nearly 
cream with a stone-like, slightly matt, speckled finish. 
The revolution of steel frame construction changed the face of the urban core of many prominent 
North American cities. Between 1870 and the 1930s, architects and developers using steel frame 
construction came to rely heavily on the use of many different types of terra cotta ceramics for 
structure, fire protection and ornament. In Portland, where Lawrence maintained his private 
practice, block after block of the downtown urban core is filled with terracotta-clad buildings. 
Through the efforts of architects like Lawrence, small towns such as Eugene were exposed to 
terra cotta, and incorporated the material into their commercial and civic architecture. 
Contractors and builders in emerging cities began to embellish their buildings with standardized 
terra cotta components that were becoming readily available through catalogues and building 
supply houses. Terracotta did not become a staple in architectural design strictly for reasons of 
availability however. The plastic nature of the material could adapt to any style of 
ornamentation, no matter how detailed. The relatively light-weight quality of the material 
enabled building~ to express ornate classical detail while rising to heights unattainable with 
stone. Most important though was the inexpensive, repetitive nature of the manufacturing 
process. Terracotta units were produced from an original carving from which a negative plaster 
mold was taken. This meant that individual units could be manufactured repeatedly, saving 
time, materials and most importantly, skilled labor. Ellis Lawrence likely saw the economy of 
using architectural terracotta, but he also saw the beauty of the handmade artisanship employed 
in its manufacture. 
E DUCATION B UILDING HISTORIC STRUCTURE REPORT 
COMMERCE HALL 
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APPENDIX B - CATALOGUE OF RECOVERED TERRA COTT A SINGER• B12 
BIBLIOGRAPHY FOR FURTHER READINGS AND RESEARCH 
TERRA COTTA ARCHITECllJRAL HISTORY 
___.  "Lever-Bridge Church." American Architect and National Terra Cotta Society. Terra Colla Standard 
Building News I (July 29, 1876): 245. Construction, Revised ed. , New York: National Terra 
Cotta Society, 1927. 
Cusack, Thomas. "Architectural Terra cotta," Brickhuilder IV, (June 
1895): 119-120. Nosbusch, H. and Mitchell. 1.V., eds. Clay Based Materials for 
the Ceramics Industry. London: Elsevier Applied 
Ferriday, V. G. Last of the Handmade Buildings. Portland, Oregon: Science, 1988. 
Mark Publishing Company, 1984. 
Newton, R. and Davidson, Sandra Conservation of Glass. 
Fiddler, John. "The Manufacture of Architectural Terra cotta and (Butterworths Series in Conservation and Museology.) 
Faience in the United Kingdom." Association for London: Butterworths and Co. Ltd., 1989. 
Preservation Technology Bulletin (AP7) , XV, No. 2, 
(1983): 37-42. Parmelee, C. W. Ceramic Glazes, 3rd Edition. Boston: Cahners Books, 
1973. 
Geer, Walter. The Story of Terra Cotta. New York: Tobias A. 
Wright, 1920. Tichane, Robert, ed. Clay Bodies. New York: The New York Glaze 
Institute, 1990. 
Glazier, Richard. A Manual of Historic Ornament, 4th Edition. New 
York: Van Norstrand Reinhold Company, 1983. Wilson, Forrest, Building materials evaluation handbook, New York: 
Van Norstrand Reinhold Co., 1984. 
Hamrick, James M. "A Survey of the Use of Architectural Terracotta 
in American Commercial Architecture: 1870-1930." 
Master's thesis, University of Oregon, 1979. DETERIORATION AND CONSERVATION 
Allen, Daniel. "An Evaluation of Mortars for the Plastic Repair of 
Kurutz, Gary F. Architectural Terra col/a of Gladding, McBean. Architectural Terra cotta." Master's thesis, Columbia 
Sausalito, California: Windgate Press, 1989. University, 1993. 
Turner, Jane. The Dictionary of Art, Vol 30. London: Macmillan Pub. __.  "Restoring Terra calla: New Techniques and Materials 
Limited, 1996. Revitali:ze Tum-Of-the-Century Clay-based Building." 
Architecture (November 1994): 127-34. 
Roth, Leland M. A Concise History of American Architecture. New 
York: Harper and Row, I9 79. Ashurst, John and Ashurst, Nicola. "Brick, Terra calla and Earth." In 
Practical Building Conservation: English Heritage Technical 
Stanton, J. E. By Middle Seas. (Printed for Gladding, McBean and Handbook, Vol. 2, New York: Halsted Press, 1982. 
Co ..)  Los Angeles: Los Angeles Pressed Brick Company, 
1927. Berryman N. D. and Tindall, Susan M. Terra col/a: Preservation ofa  
Historic Building Material, Landmarks Preservation Council of 
Stratton. Michael. The Terra cotta Revival. London: Victor Illinois, 1984. · 
Gollancz, I9 93. 
Buys, Susan and Oakley, Victoria The Conservation and Restoration 
Strong, Susan R. History of American Ceramics: An Annotated of Ceramics. Butterwort-Heinemann Series in Conservation 
Bibliography. New Jersey: Scarecrow Press, Inc., 1983. and Museology, Oxford: Butterworth-Heinemann Ltd., 1993. 
. "Terra calla: Past to Present." Architectural Record, Fidler, John. "The Conservation of Architectural Terra cotta and 
-- (Januaryl987):110-117. Faience." Transactions, Vol. 6, London: Association for 
Studies in the Conservation of Historic Buildings, 1982. 
Tunick, Susan. Terra-Cotta Skyline: New York's Architectural 
Ornament. New Jersey: Princeton Architectural Press, Glance, Richard A. "Terra cotta: Rehabilitation of a Courthouse 
1997. Dome." APT Bulletin, Vol. XVII, no. I, (1985): 39-43. 
Grimmer, A. E. and Konrad, K. A. "Preserving Historic Ceramic Tile 
MATERIAL Sc!ENCE OF CERAMIC PRODUCTS Floors." Preservation Briefs 40, Technical Preservation 
Services Division, Heritage Conservation and Recreation 
Conrad, John W. Advanced ceramic manual: Technical Data for the Service, Washington, DC, US Government Printing Office, 
Studio Poller. San Diego: Falcon Co., 1987. October, 1996. 
Kidder, F. E. Building Construction and Superintendance: Part 1; Hamilton, David. The Thames and Hudson Manual of Architectural 
Mason's Work. New York: William T. Comstock, 1897. Ceramics, London: Thames and Hudson Ltd., 1978. 
Langenbeck, Karl. The Chemistry of Pollery. Pennsylvania: Jacob, Judith M. "In-painting Areas of Glaze Loss on Architectural 
Chemical Publishing Co., 1895. Terra Cotta: A Study of Six Proprietary Masonry Paint 
Systems." Master's thesis, Columbia University, 1989. 
Lawrence, W. G. Ceramic Science for the Poller. Philadelphia: 
Chilton Book Company, 1972. 
EDUCATION BUILDING HISTORIC STRUCTURE REPORT 
COMMERCE HALL 
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LLIILIIIOli 
APPENDIX 8 - CATALOGUE OF RECOVERED TERRA COTT A SINGER• 813 
Levine, J. S. and Harris, D. A. "Stabilization and Repair of a Historic Hull, W. A. "New Principles of Tunnel Kiln Design for 
Terracotta Cornice." Preservation Assistance Division, National Architectural Terra Cotta" American Ceramic Society 
Paik Service, Washington, DC, US Government Printing Office, Bulletin XIII, no. 8 (August 1934): 196-200. 
Sept 1991. 
McDowell, S. J. "Terra Cotta Slip Coatings." Journal of the 
Link, Karen M. "Guastavino Tile Construction: History and American Ceramic Society XVI (I 933): 134-140. 
Restoration." Master's thesis, University of Oregon, 1995. 
Nicholson, T. E. "Discoloration ofa Terra Cotta Glaze." Journal of 
Prudon, T. H. "Architectural Terra cotta and Ceramic Veneer in the the American Ceramic Society XV (1932): 386-388. 
United States Prior to WWII: A history of its development and 
an analysis of its deterioration problems and possible repair Schurecht, H. G. and D. H. Fuller. "The Effect of Thermal Shock in 
methodologies." Ph.D. dissertation, Columbia University, 198 I. Causing Crazing of Glazed Ceramic Ware." Journal-of the 
American Ceramic Society XV (1932): 565-571. 
Stockbridge, Jerry G. "Analysis of in-service architectural Terracotta: 
Support for Technical Investigations." APT Bulletin, Vol. XVIJI, Schurecht, H.G. and Pole, R. G. "Effect of Water Expanding 
No. 4, (1986): 41-45. Ceramic Bodies of Different Compositions." Journal of the 
American Ceramic Society XII (I 929): 596~04. 
Tiller, D P, "The Preservation of Historic Glazed Architectural Terra 
cotta." Preservation Briefs 7, Technical Preservation Services Spurrier, H. "Coordination of Various Ingredients in the 
Division, Heritage Conservation and Recreation Service, Manufacture of Terra Cotta" Fuels and Furnace VTll , no. 8 
Washington, DC, US Government Printing Office, 1979. (August 1930): l l l l-1114. 
Tindall, S. M. "How to Prepare Project Specific Terra-Cotta _. "Notes on Terra Cotta Glaze Consistency." Journal of the 
Specifications." APT Bulletin, Vol. XXI, No. I, (1989): 26-36. American Ceramic Society XII (1929): 577-580. 
Tindall, S. M. "Terra Cotta Replacement." APT Bulletin, Vol. XX, No. _. "Pressing, Drying and Glazing Terra Cotta" Fuels and 
I, (1989): 12-14. Furnace IX, no. I (January 1931): 101-103. 
Viera, Ricardo J. "Cold Glazing Terra cotta: The Repair of Damaged _. "Some Important Points on the Manufacture of Terra Cotta" 
Glazed Surfaces." Master's thesis, Columbia University, 1992. Fuels and Furnace VIII, no. 5 (May 1930): 707-708. 
Weaver, M. E. and Matero, Frank G. Conserving Buildings: A Staley, H. F. "Use of Barium Fluoride." Transactions of the 
Manual of Techniques and Materials, New York: John American Ceramic Society XVIII (I 915): 200. 
Wiley and Sons, Inc. , 1997. 
TERRA COTTA MANUFACTURE BRICK MANUFACTURE 
Albergy, D. F. "Grog for Terra Cotta " Journal of the American Gurcke, Karl. Bricks and Brickmaking: A Handbook for Historical 
Ceramic Society V (1926): 16. Archeology, Idaho: The University of Idaho Press, 1987. 
Bennet, A. L. "The Reactivity Test for Determining the Value of International Labor Organization. "Small Scale Brickmaking." 
Barium Carbonate as a Scum Preventative " Journal of the Technology Series, Technical Memorandum #6, Geneva, 
American Ceramic Society XIII, (1930): 461-469. 1984. 
Blackbum, A. R. "Plastic Pr~ssing: A New Tool for the Ceramic United Nations Industrial Development Organization. 
Industry." American Ceramic Society Bulletin XXIX, no.6 "Brickmaking Plant: Industry Profile, Development and 
(June 1950): 230-234. Transfer of Technology Series, New York: United Nations, 
1978. 
Bowman, J. R. "Recent Factory Experience and Experiments in 
Drying Terra Cotta." American Ceramic Society Bulletin IX, Weiss, Harry and Weiss, Grace. Early Brickmaking in New Jersey, 
no. 4 (April 1924): 380-391. New Jersey: New Jersey Agricultural Society, 1966. 
Clare, R. L. "Standardization Tests for Terra Cotta Bodies and 
Glazes." American Ceramic Society Bulletin XIII, no. 12 
(December 1934): 333. 
Gates, M. E. " Using Barium Hydrate in Terra Cotta Bodies." Journal 
oft he American Ceramic Society Ill (1920): 313. 
Goodrich, H.R. "Miscellaneous Terra Cotta Laboratory Notes." 
Journal of the American Ceramic Society XV (1932): 382-
385. 
Hill, E. C. "Some Experimen:S in Terra Cotta Slips. " Journal of the 
American Ceramic Society XI (1928): 260-263 . 
Howat, W. L. and G.A. Williams "Testing Barium Carbonate for Use 
in Terra Cotta Bodies." American Ceramic Society Bulletin V 
(1923): 161. 
HISTORIC STRUCTURE REPORT 
EDUCATION BUILDING 
COMMERCE HALL 

APPENDIX C: HISTORIC PHOTOGRAPHS 
SINGER• C 
Af>PENDIXC 
HISTORIC PHOTOGRAPHS 
EDUCATION BUILDING HISTORIC STRUCTURES R EPORT 
COMM ERCE H ALL 

APPENDIX C: HISTORIC PHOTOGRAPHS SINGER•CI 
FIGURE 117: EDUCATION BUILDING SOUTHEAST ELEVATION - CIRCA. 1935 
Lawrence Collection, Courtesy of Special Collections, 
Knight Library, University of Oregon. 
HISTORIC STRUCTURES REPORT 
EDUCATION BUILDING 
COMMERCE HALL 
-- -
LLDILllllllfE 
APPENDIX C: HISTORIC PHOTOGRAPHS SfNGER•C2 
FIGURE 118: EDUCATION BUILDING NORTH ELEVATION - CIRCA. 1940 
Lawrence Collection, Courtesy of Special Collections, 
Knight Library, University of Oregon. 
HISTORIC STRUCTURES R EPORT 
EDUCATION BUILDING 
COMMERCE HALL 
·-- - ~- - ' 
~ ---- • --,-'~ ' 

APPENDIX C: HISTORIC PHOTOGRAPHS SINGER•C3 
FIGURE 119: EDUCATION BUILDlNG MAIN ENTRY - CIRCA. 1935 
Lawrence Collection, Courtesy of Special Collections, 
Knight Library, University of Oregon. 
HISTORIC STRUCTURES REPORT 
EDUCATION BUILDING 
COMMERCE HALL 
. . ---- - _____. _..._ _ 
1----_l_j ' 

APPENDIX C: HISTORIC PHOTOGRAPHS SINGER • C4 
FIGURF. 120: EDUCATION BUILDING MAIN li:NTRANCF. - CIRCA 1935 
Lawrence ollection, Couriesy of Special ollections, 
Knight Library, University of Oregon. 
Note: Ornamental Lanterns flanking entry. 
HISTORIC STRUCTURES REPORT 
Eou ATION 13UII t)ING 
()MMFRCI · HAI t 
--- --- ~- -
; - ■ ~.LI ~ 
f u__a_ IIIIDJJ e 
APPENDIX C: HISTORIC PHOTOGRAPHS SINGER•C5 
FIGURE 121: COMMERCE HALL NORTHWEST ELEVATION - CIRCA. 1945 
Lawrence Collection, Courtesy of Special Collections, 
Knight Library, University of Oregon. 
HISTORIC STRUCTURES REPORT 
EDUCATION BUILDING 
COMMERCE HALL 

APPENDIX C: HISTORIC PHOTOGRAPHS 
SINGER•C6 
FIGURE 122: COMMERCE HALL SOUTHWEST ELEVATION- CIRCA. 1930 
Lawrence Collection, Courtesy of Special Collections, 
Knight Library, University of Oregon. 
EDUCATION BUILDING HISTORIC STRUCTURES R EPORT 
COMMERCE HALL 

APPENDIX C: HISTORIC PHOTOGRAPHS 
S INGER • C7 
FIGURE 123: COMMERCE BUILDING FROM THE NORTH - CIRCA t 925 
LAWRENCE COLLECTION, COURTESY OF 
SPECIAL COLLECTIONS, KNIGHT LIBRARY, 
UNIVERSITY OF OREGON. 
EDUCATION BUILDING HISTORIC STRUCTURES REPORT 
COMMERCE HALL 

APPENDIX C: HISTORIC PHOTOGRAPHS SINGER•C8 
FIGURE 124: COMMONWEALTH ADDITION SOUTH ELEVATION - CIRCA. 1960 
Lawrence Collection, Courtesy of Special Collections, 
Knight Library, University of Oregon. 
EDUCATION BUILDING HISTORIC STRUCTURES REPORT 
COMMERCE HALL 
-- __ . 1!.. -
__1 __ . _J_J I 
' . -

APPENDIX C: HISTORIC PHOTOGRAPHS SINGER•C9 
FIGURE 125: COMMONWEALTH ADDITION AND STAIR TOWER CONNECTION - CIRCA. 1960 
Lawrence Collection, Courtesy of Special Collections, 
Knight Library, University of Oregon. 
EDUCATION BUILDING HISTORIC STRUCTURES REPORT 
COMMERCE HALL 

APPENDIX D - HISTORIC DRAWING SET D 
APPENDIXD 
HISTORIC DRAWINGS SETS 
Education Building: 
□ East Elevation and West Elevation .. ..... . . . . .................. . ......... D1 
□ South Elevation and North Elevation ......... . ... . . .. ... .. .... .. . .. . . .. . D2 
o Ground Floor Plan ...... .. .. . . .. . ... . ... . ........ . ... ..... .. ......... . .. . ...D 3 
□ First Floor Plan ............ .. . . . . . ...... . .... . ................... .. . .. . ... .. D4 
o Second Floor Plan ... . .. . . ...... . ...... . . .. .. . . . ... .. . .. .. .. ... ... .. . . .. .. . .. D5 
Commerce Hall: 
o East Elevation and West Elevation .. .. . . . .. .. ... .. . . . ......... ... . .. . ... ..D 6 
o South Elevation and North Elevation .. . ... . . ..... . . ........... .. .... . ... D7 
o Transverse Section .... . .. . .. ............... . . . ... ..... ........ ........ .. ... .D 8 
o Foundation Plan ................ . . ........... .. .. .. ... .. ... .. .. .... . . .. . . .. .... D9 
o Ground Floor Plan .. . ... ...... . .. .......... ...... ... . ... .. .. ..... . . ...... . .....D 10 
o First Floor Plan ............... .. . .. ......... .. ... ....... . .. ..... . . . .. . . ...... .D  11 
o Second Floor Plan ..... .... .. ........ . .. . .. . ... . . . . . .... . .. . ... ...... .. .. . .. .. D12 
o First Floor Framing ........ .. . . ..... . .. . .. ....... . . . .. . .. . . .. .. . . ..... .... .. . D13 
o Second Floor Framing ....... ................ .. ... . ... .. . . .. . . . .. . . . . .. . . ... ..D 14 
*Note: The original Ellis Lawrence drawing sets are held at the University of Oregon in the 
office of the campus architect at Facility Services. 
HISTORIC STRUCTURE REPORT 
EDUCATION BUILDING 
COMMERCE HALL 
---- _-----=--u ~ ' 
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EDUCATION BUILDING HISTORIC STRUCTURE REPORT 
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EDUCATION BUIWING HISTORIC STRUCI1JRE REPORT 
COMMERCE HALL 

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EDUCATION BUILDING 
COMMERCE HAU. 
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COMMERCE HAIL 
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COMMERCE HALL 
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COMMERCE HALL 
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EDUCATION BUllDING HISTORIC STRUCfURE REPORT 
COMMERCE HAU.. 

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EDUCATION BUIIDINO HISTORIC STRUcnJRI! REPoRT 
COMMERCE HAJ.L 

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EDUCATION BUILDING HISTORIC STRUCTURE REPORT 
COMMERCE HALL 

APPENDIX E- SECRETARY OF INTERIOR'S STANDARDS 
SINGER• E 
APPENDIXE 
THE SECRETARY OF THE INTERIOR'S STANDARDS FOR THE TREATMENT OF 
HISTORIC PROPERTIES 
EDUCATION BUILDING HISTORIC STRUCTURE R EPORT 
COMMERCE HALL 
a~. f -~ J 
... ·. .......... ',,' 

APPENDIX E- SECRETARY OF INTERIOR'S STANDARDS SINGER• El 
THE SECRETARY OF THE INTERIOR'S STANDARDS FOR THE TREATMENT OF HISTORIC PROPERTIES 
It should be understood that the Standards are a series of concepts about maintaining, 
repairing and replacing historic materials, as well as designing new additions or making 
alterations; as such, they cannot, in and of themselves, be used to make essential decisions 
about which features of a historic property should be saved and which might be changed. But 
once an appropriate treatment is selected, the Standards provide philosophical consistency to 
the work. 
FOUR TREATMENT APPROACHES 
There are Standards for four distinct, but interrelated, approaches to the treatment of historic 
properties--preservation, rehabilitation, restoration, and reconstruction. 
Preservation focuses on the maintenance and repair of existing historic materials and retention 
of a property's form as it has evolved over time. (Protection and Stabilization have now been 
consolidated under this treatment.) 
Rehabilitation acknowledges the need to alter or add to a historic property to meet continuing 
or changing uses while retaining the property's historic character. 
Restoration depicts a property at a particular period of time in its history, while removing 
evidence of other periods. 
Reconstruction re-creates vanished or non-surviving portions of a property for interpretive 
purposes. 
PRESERVA  TJON 
Preservation is defined as the act or process of applying measures necessary to sustain the 
existing form, integrity, and materials of an historic property. Work, including preliminary 
measures to protect and stabilize the property, generally focuses upon the ongoing 
maintenance and repair of historic materials and features rather than extensive replacement 
and new construction. New exterior additions are not within the scope of this treatment; 
however, the limited and sensitive upgrading of mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems 
and other code-required work to make properties functional is appropriate within a 
preservation project. 
STA ND ARDS FOR PRESERVATION 
I .A property will be used as it was historically, or be given_ a new ~se th~t maximizes the 
retention of distinctive materials, features, spaces, and spatial relat10nsh1ps. Where a treatment 
and use have not been identified, a property will be protected and, if necessary, stabilized until 
additional work may be undertaken. 
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2. The historic character of a property will be retained and preserved. The replacement of intact 
or repairable historic materials or alteration of features, spaces, and spatial relationships that 
characterize a property will be avoided. 
3 .Each property will be recognized as a physical record of its time, place, and use. Work 
needed to stabilize, consolidate, and conserve existing historic materials and features will be 
physically and visually compatible, identifiable upon close inspection, and properly 
documented for future research. 
4.Changes to a property that have acquired historic significance in their own right will be 
retained and preserved. 
5.Distinctive materials, features, finishes, and construction techniques or examples of 
craftsmanship that characterize a property will be preserved. 
6.The existing condition of historic features will be evaluated to determine the appropriate 
level of intervention needed. Where the severity of deterioration requires repair or limited 
replacement of a distinctive feature, the new material will match the old in composition, 
design, color, and texture. 
?.Chemical or physical treatments, if appropriate, will be undertaken using the gentlest means 
possible. Treatments that cause damage to historic materials will not be used. 
8.Archeological resources will be protected and preservec! in place. If such resources must be 
disturbed, mitigation measures will be undertaken. 
PRESERVATION AS A TREATMENT 
When the property's distinctive materials, features, and spaces are essentially intact and thus 
convey the historic significance without extensive repair or replacement; when depiction at a 
particular period of time is not appropriate; and when a continuing or new use does not 
require additions or extensive alterations, Preservation may be considered as a treatment. 
REHABILITATION 
Rehabilitation is defined as the act or process of making possible a compatible use for a 
property through repair, alterations, and additions while preserving those portions or features 
which convey its historical, cultural, or architectural values. 
STANDARDS FOR REHABILITATION 
l .A property will be used as it was historically or be given a new use that requires minimal 
change to its distinctive materials, features, spaces, and spatial relationships. 
2.The historic character of a property will be retained and preserved. The removal of 
distinctive materials or alteration of features, spaces, and spatial relationships that characterize 
a property will be avoided. 
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APPENDIX E - SECRETARY OF INTERIOR' S STANDARDS SrNGER• E3 
3 .Each property will be recognized as a physical record of its time, place, and use. Changes 
that create a false sense of historical development, such as adding conjectural features or 
elements from other historic properties, will not be undertaken. 
4.Changes to a property that have acquired historic significance in their own right will be 
retained and preserved. 
5.Distinctive materials, features, finishes, and construction 
techniques or examples of craftsmanship that characterize a 
property will be preserved. 
6.Deteriorated historic features will be repaired rather than replaced. Where the severity of 
deterioration requires replacement of a distinctive feature, the new feature will match 
the old in design, color, texture, and, where possible, materials. Replacement of missing 
features will be substantiated by documentary and physical evidence. 
7.Chemical or physical treatments, if appropriate, will be undertaken using the gentlest means 
possible. Treatments that cause damage to historic materials will not be used. 
8.Archeological resources will be protected and preserved in place. If such resources must be 
disturbed, mitigation measures will be undertaken. 
9.New additions, exterior alterations, or related new construction will not destroy historic 
materials, features, and spatial relationships that characterize the property. The new work will 
be differentiated from the old and will be compatible with the historic materials, features, size, 
scale and proportion, and massing to protect the integrity of the property and its environment. 
IO.New additions and adjacent or related new construction will be undertaken in a such a 
manner that, if removed in the future, the essential form and integrity of the historic property 
and its environment would be unimpaired. 
REHABILITATION AS A TREATMENT 
When repair and replacement of deteriorated features are necessary; when alterations or 
additions to the property are planned for a new or continued use; and when its depiction at a 
particular period of time is not appropriate, Rehabilitation may be considered as a treatment. 
RESTORATION 
Restoration is defined as the act or process of accurately depicting the form, features, and 
character of a property as it appeared at a particular period of time by means of the removal of 
features from other periods in its history and reconstruction of missing features from the 
restoration period. The limited and sensitive upgrading of mechanical, electrical, and 
plumbing systems and other code-required work to make properties functional is appropriate 
within a restoration project. 
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APPENDIX E- SECRETARY OF INTERIOR'S STANDARDS SINGER•E4 
STANDARDS FOR RESTORATION 
1.A property will be used as it was historically or be given a new use which reflects the 
property's restoration period. 
2.Materials and features from the restoration period will be retained and preserved. The 
removal of materials or alteration of features, spaces, and spatial relationships that 
characterize the period will not be undertaken. 
3 .Each property will be recognized as a physical record of its time, place, and use. Work 
needed to stabilize, consolidate and conserve materials and features from the restoration 
period will be physically and visually compatible, identifiable upon close inspection, and 
properly documented for future research. 
4.Materials, features, spaces, and finishes that characterize other historical periods will be 
documented prior to their alteration or removal. 
5.Distinctive materials, features, finishes, and construction techniques or examples of 
craftsmanship that characterize the restoration period will be preserved. 
6.Deteriorated features from the restoration period will be repaired rather than replaced. 
Where the severity of deterioration requires replacement of a distinctive feature, the new 
feature will match the old in design, color, texture, and, where possible, materials. 
7.Replacement of missing features from the restoration period will be substantiated by 
documentary and physical evidence. A false sense of history will not be created by adding 
conjectural features, features from other properties, or by combining features 
that never existed together historically. 
8.chemical or physical treatments, if appropriate, will be undertaken using the gentlest means 
possible. Treatments that cause damage to historic materials will not be used. 
9.Archeological resources affected by a project will be protected and preserved in place. If 
such resources must be disturbed, mitigation measures will be undertaken. 
10.Designs that were never executed historically will not be constructed. 
RESTORATION AS A TREATMENT 
When the property's design, architectural, or historical significance during a particular period 
of time outweighs the potential loss of extant materials, features, spaces, and finishes that 
characterize other historical periods; when there is substantial physical and documentary 
evidence for the work; and when contemporary alterations and additions are not planned, 
Restoration may be considered as a treatment. Prior to undertaking work, a particular period 
of time, i.e., the restoration period, should be selected and justified, and a documentation plan 
for Restoration developed. 
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RECONSTRUCTION 
Reconstruction is defined as the act or process of depicting, by means of new construction, the 
form, features, and detailing of a non-surviving site, landscape, building, structure, or object 
for the purpose ofreplicating its appearance at a specific period of time and in its historic 
location. 
STA ND ARDS FOR RECONSTRUCTION 
! .Reconstruction will be used to depict vanished or non-surviving portions of a property when 
documentary and physical evidence is available to permit accurate reconstruction with -
minimal conjecture, and such reconstruction is essential to the public understanding of the 
property. 
2.Reconstruction of a landscape, building, structure, or object in its historic location will be 
preceded by a thorough archeological investigation to identify and evaluate those features and 
artifacts which are essential to an accurate reconstruction. If such resources must be disturbed, 
mitigation measures will be undertaken. 
3.Reconstruction will include measures to preserve any remaining historic materials, features, 
, and spatial relationships. 
4.Reconstruction will be based on the accurate duplication of historic features and elements 
substantiated by documentary or physical evidence rather than on conjectural designs or the 
availability of different features from other historic properties. A reconstructed property will 
re-create the appearance of the non-surviving historic property in materials, design, color, and 
texture. 
5.A reconstruction will be clearly identified as a contemporary re-creation. 
6.Designs that were never executed historically will not be constructed. 
7.Replacement of missing features from the restoration period will be substantiated by 
documentary and physical evidence. A false sense of history will not be created by adding 
conjectural features, features from other properties, or by combining features 
that never existed together historically. 
RECONSTRUCTION AS A TREATMENT 
When a contemporary depiction is required to understand and interpret a property's historic 
value (including the re-creation of missing components in a historic district or site) ; when no 
other property with the same associative value has survived; and when sufficient historical 
documentation exists to ensure an accurate reproduction, Reconstruction may be considered as 
a treatment. 
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Af>PENDIXF 
CONSERVATION REFERENCES AVAILABLE ON THE INTERNET 
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CONSERVATION REFERENCES AVAILABLE ON THE INTERNET 
Technical Preservation Services, a branch of the National Park Service, has published a series 
of Preservation Briefs to assist owners and developers of historic buildings in identifying and 
resolving common preservation and repair problems. The Preservation Briefs listed in this 
appendix were chosen based on the applicability to this report. There are a total of 41 Briefs 
available. The complete text of each Preservation Briefs is available online. Many of the 
briefs include references to selected readings for more in-depth research. These briefs should 
be consulted during the early planning stages of the preservation work. Technical 
specifications written for rehabilitation work on the historic structures should refer contactors 
and sub-contractors to these briefs. 
Preservation Brief 1 
, The Cleaning and Waterproof Coating of Masonry Buildings 
D Types Of Cleaning 
D Planning A Cleaning Project 
D Potential Problems Of Cleaning 
D Problems Of Water Repellent And Waterproof Coatings 
www2.cr.nps.gov/tps/briefs/brief0 l .htm 
Preservation Brief 2 
Repointing Mortar Joints in Historic Masonry Buildings 
D Identifying the Problem Before Repointing 
D Finding an Appropriate Mortar Match 
D Properties of Mortar 
D Mortar Analysis ' 
D Components of Mortar 
D Mortar Type and Mix 
D Budgeting and Scheduling 
D Contractor Selection 
D Execution of the Work 
D Visually Examining the Mortar and the Masonry Units 
www2.cr.nps.gov/tps/briefs/brief02.htm 
Preservation Brief 4 
Roofing for Historic Buildings 
D Significance of the Roof 
D Historic Roofing Materials in America 
D Locating the Problem 
D Repair or Replace 
D Historical Research 
D Replacing the Historic Roofing Material 
D AltemativeMaterials 
D Temporary Stabilization 
D Precautions 
D Maintenance 
www2.cr.nps.gov/tps/briefs/brief04.htm 
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Preservation Brief 6 
Dangers of Abrasive Cleaning to Historic Buildings 
□ What 1s Abrasive Cleaning? 
□ Why Are Abrasive Cleaning Methods Used? 
□ Problems of Abrasive Cleaning 
□ How Building Materials React to Abrasive Cleaning Methods 
□ When 1s Abrasive Cleaning Permissible 
□ Historic Interiors that Should Not Be Cleaned Abrasively 
□ M1t1gatmg the Effects of Abrasive Cleaning 
www2.cr.nps.gov/tps/briefs/brief06.htm 
Preservation Brief 7 
The Preservation of Historic Glazed Architectural Terra-Cotta 
□ What is Terra-Cotta 
□ Types of Terra-Cotta 
□ Characteristics of Glazed Architectural Terra-Cotta 
□ Common Deterioration Problems 
□ Deterioration Inspection and Analysis 
□ Maintenance, Repair and Replacement 
www2.cr.nps.gov/tps/briefs/brief07 .htm 
Preservation Brief 9 
' The Repair of Historic Wooden Windows 
□ Architectural or Historical Significance 
□ Physical Evaluation 
□ Repair Class I: Routine Maintenance 
□ Repair Class II: Stabilization 
□ Repair Class III: Splices and Parts Replacement 
□ Weatherization 
□ Window Replacement 
www2.cr.nps.gov/tps/briefs/brief09.htm 
Preservation Brief 10 
□ Exterior Paint Problems on Historic Woodwork 
□ Purposes of Exterior Paint 
□ Treating Paint Problems 
□ Justification for Paint Removal 
□ Paint Removal Precautions 
□ Repainting Historic Buildings for Cosmetic Reasons 
□ Conditions/Recommended Treatments 
□ Selecting the Appropriate/Safest Method to Remove Paint 
□ General Paint Type Recommendations 
www2.cr.nps. gov/ tps/briefs/briefl O. htm 
Preservation Brief 14 
New Exterior Additions to Historic Buildings: Preservation Concerns 
□ Preserving Significant Historic Materials and Features 
□ Preserving the Historic Character 
□ Protecting the Historical Significance 
www2.cr.nps.gov/tps/briefs/briefl4.htm#Preserving Significant Historic Materials and Features 
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Preservation Brief 15 
Preservation of Historic Concrete: Problems and General Approaches Historical Overview 
0 Causes of Concrete Deterioration 
0 Major Sign of Concrete Deterioration 
0 Planning for Concrete Preservation 
0 Concrete Repair 
www2 .cr.nps. gov /tps/briefs/briefl 5 .htm 
Preservation Brief 18 
Rehabilitating Interiors in Historic Buildings - Identifying Character-Defining Elements 
0 Identifying and Evaluating the Importance of Interior Elements Prior to Rehabilitation 
0 Recommended Approaches for Rehabilitating Historic Interiors 
0 Meeting Building, Life Safety and Fire Codes. 
0 Sources of Assistance 
0 Protecting Interior Elements During Rehabilitation 
www2.cr.nps.gov/tps/briefs/briefl 8.htm 
Preservation Brief 22 
The Preservation and Repair of Historic Stucco 
0 Historical Background 
0 Repairing Deteriorated Stucco 
0 Mixes for Repair of Historic Stucco 
www2.cr.nps.gov/tps/briefs/brief22.htm 
Preservation Brief 24 
Heating, Ventilating, and Cooling Historic Buildings: Problems and Approaches 
O History of Mechanical Systems 
O Climate Control and Preservation 
O Planning the New System 
O Overview of HY AC Systems 
O Designing the new system 
O Systems Performance and Maintenance 
0 HY AC Do's and Don'ts 
www2.cr.nps.gov/tps/briefs/brief24.htm 
Preservation Brief 30 
The Preservation and Repair of Historic Clay Tile Roofs 
0 Historical Background 
O Revival Styles Renew Interest in Clay Roofing Tiles 
0 EarlyTiles 
0 Clay Tile Substitutes 
O Traditional Tile Shapes and Colors 
O How Tiles are Attached 
0 FlatTiles 
0 Pantiles 
O Ridge or Hip Tiles 
□ Roof Pitch and Weather are Factors in Tile Attachment 
O Preservation and Repair 
www2.cr.nps.gov/tps/briefs/brief30.htm 
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Preservation Brief 38 
Removing Graffiti from Historic Masonry 
□ Identifying the Graffiti and the Masonry 
□ Graffiti Removal Methods and Materials 
□ Testing 
□ Health and Safety Considerations 
□ Environmental Considerations 
□ Barrier Coatings 
□ Preventing and Controlling Graffiti 
□ Development of a Treatment Plan 
□ Criteria to Consider Before Selecting a Barrier Coating 
□ Tips for Successful Graffiti Removal 
www2.cr.nps.gov/tps/briefs/brief38.htm 
Preservation Brief 39 
Holding the Line: Controlling Unwanted Moisture in Historic Buildings 
□ Remedial Actions within an Historic Preservation Context 
□ How and Where to Look for Damaging Moisture 
□ Looking for Signs 
□ Uncovering and Analyzing Moisture Problems 
□ Transport or Movement of Moisture 
□ Surveying and Diagnosing Moisture Damage: Key Questions to Ask 
□ Selecting an Appropriate Level of Treatment 
□ Ongoing Care 
' www2.cr.nps.gov/tps/briefs/brief39.htm 
Preservation Brief 41 
The Seismic Retrofit of Historic Buildings: Keeping Preservation in the Forefront 
□ Balancing Seismic Retrofit and Preservation 
□ Earthquake Damage to Historic Buildings: Assessing Principal Risk Factors 
□ Putting a Team Together 
□ Planning for Seismic Retrofit: How Much and Where? 
□ Assessing the Cost of Seismic Retrofit 
□ Seismic Strengthening Approaches 
□ Post-Earthquake Issues 
□ About the Federal Emergency Management Agency 
www2.cr.nps.gov/tps/briefs/pb41/brief4 l .htm » 
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