HISTORY

Originally built for Thomas Clifton Luke, a prominent figure in Portland's floral world and community leadership, this house holds a rich history. Tommy Luke, who started work as a delivery boy at 'Max Smith's Flowers' is known for transforming it into 'Flowers by Tommy Luke’. He was a key figure in Portland's development as a Rosarian, Doernbecher Children's Hospital Board Member, and Rotary Club President. Remarkably, we believe the home has only changed hands a few times in a century, with the last renovations dating back to the late 80s. To retain its original charm, we kept and restored the old growth oak and maple wood floors, along with exquisite original crystal and brass door hardware, elegant ceiling coving, intricate window and door trim, classic sash windows, and a remarkable cast iron bathtub.
 

Built in 1923, Portland was a booming, growing city. Its build closely followed the founding of the nearby Hoyt Arboretum by a mere year, emerged five years after the iconic Rose Garden, and preceded the unveiling of the Burnside, Sellwood, and Ross Island bridges. Luke would have chosen this prime location within the highly coveted and fashionable Arlington Heights neighborhood, as it was known for its grand & stately homes. The home was the 42nd house built in Arlington heights and plans are credited to a Mr "Burver" but claim to be in the 'English' style of Wade Hampton Pipes a locally well know architect in Portland.

 

While zoning was non- existent at the time there were restrictions on what could be built in the area such as 
- No house costing less that $3,500 
- No premises to be used as a stable, foundry, warehouse, public laundry, factory, trade or business.
- No intoxicating liqors to be created or consumed on the premises