Courtesy of Lewis & Clark
Lewis & Clark’s Office of Facilities Services recently released phase two of their plan to renovate the Lower Estate Gardens.
Early last year, Facilities released a survey asking the community for proposals on the renovation of the area. The communication centered around a commitment to promoting sustainability and diversity, in addition to honoring the historic significance of the estate. The call for submissions included an acknowledgement of the tragic accident which occurred in the area in 2022, resulting in the death of a student.
The estate gardens hold particular significance given that they were entered into the National Register of Historic Places in 1979. The nomination praised then-President John R. Howard’s work to preserve the original sophistication and beauty of the property long after the establishment of the college.
In September, the college completed phase one of the redesign plan, which included rebuilding the stone walls to modernize the structures, filling in the outdoor pool, and removing the grape arbor The bath house was also reroofed with materials matching its original design.
Phase two of the renovation will divide the area into four different zones: a garden of Akebono Cherry trees, a central plaza for both school-sanctioned events and informal gatherings, a shaded patio containing outdoor furniture and a cascading water feature, as well as a terrace that “will accommodate outdoor classes, performances, and ceremonies.”
This design was settled on with consideration of both east-west orientation to ensure a clear view of Mount Hood from the Manor house as well as north-south equilibrium to ensure a balance of garden elements across the proposed terrace.
Facilities stressed their commitment to ensuring that the space is both accessible and environmentally-friendly, now and in the future.
The announcement stated that any feedback on the project can be directed to estategarden@lclark.edu before Dec. 20.
“The reimagined Lower Estate Gardens reflect Lewis & Clark College’s commitment to preserving its historic legacy while meeting contemporary community needs. Through thoughtful design and collaboration, this project promises to create a vibrant, multi-functional space that inspires connection, reflection, and growth for generations to come,” the page reads.
Though the exact time frame of the renovation was not specified, the project is expected to be completed by September 2025.
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