Portland, Oregon | 09.30.2026
Venue
Irving Street Studio is a unique, modern event space in Portland’s vibrant Northwest District, offering an inviting setting for RAiNA Conference 2026. Located at 907 NW Irving Street, the studio provides a creative and comfortable environment for learning, networking, and connecting with fellow industry professionals.
Address: Irving Street Studio
907 NW Irving St, Portland OR 97209
Historic Building Tour: The Ecotrust Building
The setting for RAiNA 2026 is part of the story. Irving Street Studio, our conference venue, is located inside Portland’s historic Ecotrust Building—a pioneering adaptive reuse project that demonstrates how existing buildings can be transformed to meet modern needs without losing their character or history. As we explore the future of rainscreens, retrofit, and resilience at RAiNA 2026, we’ll be doing so inside a building that has been demonstrating those principles for decades.
Step Inside One of Portland’s Most Significant Adaptive Reuse Success Stories
Attendees are invited to explore the historic Jean Vollum Natural Capital Center, home to Ecotrust and one of the nation’s most celebrated examples of sustainable historic preservation. The building was transformed from the original late-1800s McCraken Warehouse into a landmark project that helped redefine what was possible in green building and adaptive reuse.
For architects, engineers, designers, and construction professionals, this tour offers a rare opportunity to experience a project that successfully balances historic character, environmental performance, and modern functionality.
Why This Building Matters
- One of Portland’s few remaining pre-1900 commercial buildings.
- Nearly 98% of construction debris was reused, recycled, or reclaimed during renovation, setting a City of Portland record at the time.
- Features extensive adaptive reuse elements, including reclaimed structural timber, salvaged architectural components, and preserved historic warehouse features.
- Incorporates sustainable systems such as daylighting through a central skylight, green roof technology, bioswales, renewable energy, and solar power generation.
What You’ll See
During the tour, attendees will have the chance to explore:
- Historic artifacts uncovered and preserved during restoration, including freight elevator components and warehouse features.
- Reclaimed timber construction used throughout the building’s upper-floor expansion and interiors.
- The innovative daylighting strategy that brings natural light to approximately 75% of interior spaces.
- Views of Portland’s Pearl District illustrate the dramatic transformation of the neighborhood over the past century.
For Building Professionals
This is more than a building tour. It’s a case study in how thoughtful design, engineering, and preservation can extend the life of a historic structure while meeting modern performance goals. Whether your interests are structural systems, adaptive reuse, sustainability, historic preservation, urban design, or occupant experience, you’ll discover ideas and lessons that continue to influence projects across the country.
Don’t miss this opportunity to experience a pioneering project that proves old buildings can lead the way toward a more sustainable future
Proximity to Airports
Portland International Airport: 8 miles (29-31 minutes’ drive, depending on traffic)
Hotels Nearby
Please note that the following hotels are listed for your convenience and are located near the RAiNA 2026 Conference venue. RAiNA has not previously visited or endorsed any of these hotels. If you choose to stay at one of these establishments, it is entirely at your discretion and responsibility to conduct your own research and review to ensure it meets your needs and expectations.
Residence Inn by Marriott Portland Downtown/Pearl District
1150 NW 9th Ave | Approximately 5 minute walk
Canopy by Hilton Portland Pearl District
425 NW 9th Ave | Approximately 3 minute walk
Cambria Hotel Portland – Pearl District
165 NW Park Ave | Approximately 10 minute walk
Hampton Inn & Suites Portland-Pearl District
354 NW 9th Ave | Approximately 5 minute walk
The Hoxton, Portland
15 NW 4th Ave | Approximately 15 minute walk