Harrison Condos Overview (Downtown Portland)
Harrison Condominiums, often referred to as Harrison East and Harrison West, form a classic mid-century high-rise complex located in the heart of downtown Portland, Oregon. The main towers sit at 111 SW Harrison Street (East) and 255 SW Harrison Street (West), with a nearby rental building at 222 SW Harrison Street.
Building Highlights
Constructed in 1965–1966 by the architectural firm Skidmore, Owings & Merrill (SOM), these towers use sturdy poured-concrete construction with thick floors and walls that provide excellent soundproofing.
- West Tower: 25–26 stories with roughly 193–195 units
- East Tower: 22–23 stories with about 156 units
Most residences are one-bedroom layouts (approximately 580–740 sq ft) or two-bedroom units (950–980 sq ft). Features typically include floor-to-ceiling windows, private covered balconies, and individual heating/cooling systems. Some ground-level townhouse-style units offer extra space, fireplaces, and in-unit laundry. Many homes still have original or lightly updated kitchens and bathrooms, giving them a retro yet functional feel.
Views and Lifestyle
Higher floors (especially 12 and above) deliver impressive panoramas of Mount Hood, the Willamette River, downtown bridges, and the West Hills skyline, depending on the unit’s orientation. The complex appeals to buyers seeking a central, walkable location near Portland State University (PSU), the waterfront, parks, and public transit (including the streetcar stop just outside).
Shared Amenities
Residents enjoy access to a seasonal outdoor pool, hot tub, and sauna (located at the adjacent South Tower). Other perks include a gated courtyard with greenery, BBQ grills, a community room, bike storage, and on-site laundry facilities. Secured underground parking (typically one space per unit) and extra storage are available, along with 24-hour security presence.
Practical Details
HOA fees tend to run higher than average but cover water, sewer, garbage, internet (in the West Tower), building insurance, maintenance, and shared amenities. Pets are permitted with certain restrictions. While the buildings are older, they offer reliable mid-century charm—though expect standard features like lower ceilings compared to modern high-rises. There is no rental cap beyond a 30-day minimum, making the complex attractive for investors.
Overall
Harrison Condos deliver straightforward, downtown living with great access to everything Portland’s core has to offer. It’s a solid choice for first-time buyers, budget-minded professionals, and rental investors who want character and convenience without ultra-luxury pricing.
Harrison Condos (also known as Harrison East and Harrison West) is a mid-century modern high-rise condominium complex in downtown Portland, Oregon, at 111 SW Harrison St (East Tower) and 255 SW Harrison St (West Tower). A third building at 222 SW Harrison St serves as rental apartments (Harrison Tower).
Key Facts
- Built: 1965 (West) and 1966 (East) by the renowned firm Skidmore, Owings & Merrill (SOM). They feature solid poured-concrete construction with thick walls/floors for good sound insulation.
- Towers:
- Harrison West (255 SW Harrison): 25–26 stories, ~193–195 units.
- Harrison East (111 SW Harrison): 22–23 stories, ~156 units.
- Units: Mostly 1-bedroom (around 579–742 sq ft) and 2-bedroom (around 950–980 sq ft) layouts with floor-to-ceiling windows and covered balconies. A few larger units and ground-level townhomes (some with in-unit laundry and fireplaces) exist. Many units retain original or partially updated kitchens/baths; individual HVAC is a plus.
- Views: Depend heavily on floor and orientation — higher floors (12+) offer Mt. Hood, Willamette River, bridges, West Hills, or downtown skyline views.
Amenities
- Shared outdoor pool, hot tub, and sauna (at the South Tower/rental building; seasonal and across the street).
- BBQ area, gated courtyard with landscaping, party/community room, bike storage, and free on-site laundry facilities (no in-unit W/D in most tower units).
- Secured underground parking (usually 1 deeded space per unit, though not all include it) and storage.
- Overnight security.
Location & Lifestyle
The complex sits in a highly walkable area (score ~98/100) near Portland State University (PSU), the waterfront, parks, streetcar (stops right outside), and downtown amenities. It’s popular for its affordability relative to newer high-rises, no rental cap (30-day minimum), and investor appeal due to proximity to PSU.
HOA & Practical Notes
HOA dues cover most utilities (water, sewer, garbage, internet in West), insurance, maintenance, pool, and laundry. Dues can feel high but bundle a lot. Pets are generally allowed (with restrictions). The buildings are older, so expect some mid-century quirks like lower ceilings.
Overall
Harrison offers solid, no-frills mid-century high-rise living with strong views, shared outdoor space, and an unbeatable central location for budget-conscious buyers, first-time condo owners, or investors. It’s not ultra-luxury but provides good value in Portland’s downtown market. For current listings or tours, check sites like harrisoncondos.com or realtyportland.com.
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