A Portland Craftsman Classic

Simple, strong lines characterize the great old bones of the Old Portland home, also known as a Foursquare due to the fact they have four rooms on both floors with a stairway up the middle.

Dependable and solid, this was often perceived as an American type and style. The living spaces are on the main level and include a bathroom and bedroom with additional bedrooms and a single bath on the upper level. The main floor usually houses the living spaces and one bedroom. Upstairs you will find a bathroom and 3 to 4 bedrooms without a bathroom.

Characteristics

• 2 - 2 1/2 stories

• A simple floor plan is quartered

• Cube shape with 4 rooms per level, 2 deep and 2 wide

• The roof often has one dormer per plane and was done in a pyramidal style

• Full or partial-width front porch with wide stairs

• Offset front entry, though otherwise symmetrical

• Large single light windows in front, otherwise double hung

• 6 or 8 over 1 multi-paned windows

• Hipped roof with wide eaves

• Simple woodwork

• Cedar lap siding

Years Built

1895s - 1930s

Additional Style

Prairie: These are very similar to Old Portland/Foursquare's, but are asymmetrical with a less steep roof line pitch and a covered porch with the front door usually being offset to the right or the left of the front porch. Stucco siding, stronger horizontal lines with banded trim, and square columns.

Craftsman: Has more artisan design features like exposed rafters, built-in cabinets, window seats, and buffets.

Classic Cottage: This is a smaller version that is usually just a single story.

Foursquare houses are easy to find in the inner Eastside of Portland. If you like this style do a deep dive into these neighborhoods.

• Hosford-Abernethy

• Richmond