The Historical Architecture of the 1901 Hotel Felix-Portland and Modern Portland Accommodations
The stories behind the buildings, statues and other points of interest that make Manhattan fascinating often begin with the 1901 Hotel Felix-Portland - 132 West 47th Street. On April 29, 1899 the Real Estate Record & Guide reported that Ellen Fallon had sold the two "old buildings" at 132 and 134 West 47th Street. It noted, "The buyer is a builder, who will improve by the erection of a 10-story apartment house."
The Design and Construction of a Manhattan Landmark
The unnamed owner hired architect D. G. Malcolm to design the structure, but the property was lost in foreclosure in February 1900. The new owners, the Mohawk Realty Co., started from scratch. Malcolm's plans were scrapped and architect Ralph S. Townsend submitted designs for a 9-story building that May. Despite the rocky start, the Hotel Portland was completed in 1901.
Townsend's handsome design included a two-story rusticated base with a regal columned portico topped by a stone balustrade. Although the style was overall Renaissance Revival, Townsend borrowed from Beaux Arts in the bulbous supports of the second floor balconettes and their swirling carvings and French railings. The upper stories were faced in brown brick, the stone architraves of the openings decorated with arched pediments at the third floor, elaborate keystones at the fourth, and egg-and-dart details above. A complex, overhanging stone cornice complimented the design.
Notable Residents and History
The Hotel Portland filled with white collar residents like Dr. E. D. Klots, Dr. Claude N. Finley, and engineer John F. Ward. John F. Ward was an eminent civil and mechanical engineer. He had worked on the Morris Canal in New Jersey, the Shubenacadie Canal in Nova Scotia, and the South Gila Canal in Arizona, for instance. Additionally, Dr. Claude N. Finley was associated with the hospital of the French Benevolent Society on West 34th Street.
Contemporary Hospitality: The Bidwell Marriott and Aloft Portland
Moving from history to modern luxury, the Bidwell Marriott Portland is thoughtfully designed and luxuriously appointed — they pride themselves on creating a truly welcoming environment. This four-diamond hotel in the heart of downtown Portland is conveniently located near top restaurants, tax-free shopping and popular attractions. They offer 258 stylishly appointed guest rooms; amenities include 24-hour room service, a business center and a newly remodeled fitness center.
Furthermore, Aloft Portland Airport at Cascade Station is a fresh, modern hotel near the airport. Downtown Portland is easy to reach by public transportation, and the Cascade Station shopping center is just out the front door. After a fulfilling day, you’ll find a welcome reprieve from the hustle and bustle of the city in loft-like rooms featuring complimentary high-speed Wi-Fi, mini-refrigerators, walk-in showers and forward-thinking designs. Whatever the reason for your travels, Aloft Portland Airport at Cascade Station provides the friendly service and modern amenities necessary to make your stay memorable.
Key Event Space Capacities and Details
For those interested in venues and planning, here are the meeting space details and capacities:
- River Ballroom: 1,776 Sq. Ft., 100 Reception Capacity
- Willamette: 576 Sq. Ft., 35 Reception Capacity
- Columbia: 576 Sq. Ft., 40 Reception Capacity
- McKenzie: 625 Sq. Ft., 40 Reception Capacity
- Deschutes: 550 Sq. Ft., 40 Reception Capacity
- Rogue: 525 Sq. Ft., 40 Reception Capacity
- Tactic (Aloft): 640 Sq. Ft., 30 Reception Capacity