Arlene Schnitzer Concert Hall

Through strategic restoration and modernization efforts, Säzän Group helped revitalize one of Portland's most celebrated performing arts venues for generations to come.

Preserving a Portland icon while preparing it for the future, the Arlene Schnitzer Concert Hall seamlessly blends historic grandeur with modern performance technology. Originally constructed as the Portland Publix Theatre in 1928, the venue has remained a cornerstone of downtown Portland's entertainment district for nearly a century. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1976, the Hall has undergone thoughtful restorations that preserve its Italian Rococo Revival architecture while introducing critical upgrades in technology, accessibility, and life safety systems.

Säzän Group partnered with a multidisciplinary team to restore and modernize key elements of this beloved cultural landmark, providing engineering and design expertise for projects including:

• Orchestra Shell: Replaced the aging orchestra shell and integrated state-of-the-art acoustical, lighting, safety, and performance systems, including the Meyer Sound Constellation system, while preserving the hall's historic character.
• Marquee Renovation: Restored the iconic 1928 PORTLAND marquee, replicating its historic appearance while enhancing durability and weather protection.
• Audience Chamber Lighting Retrofit: Upgraded audience chamber lighting to energy-efficient LED fixtures that maintain the venue's historic aesthetic and integrate with the existing theatrical control system.