Photograph courtsey of the Design Library, University of Oregon Libraries; available via Creative Commons (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0/deed.en)
Name: Kennell-Ellis Building
Address: 1280 Willamette Street
City: Eugene
Year of Construction: 1947
Architect: Robert Wilmsen
Original Use: Commercial
Status: In Use
National Register of Historic Places: Not Listed
Description:
Built in 1947, the Kennell Ellis Building is one of Eugene’s best examples of a style called Streamline Moderne—a sleek, modern look that became popular in the 1930s. Local architect Robert Wilmsen designed it early in his career, before he went on to become well known for his work in midcentury modern architecture across Oregon.
Streamline Moderne was inspired by the speed and technology of the machine age. It features smooth curves, clean lines, and materials like polished metal and glass. Think of ocean liners from the past—long, graceful, and built for speed. The Kennell Ellis Building has that same kind of vibe. With its sweeping curves and long ribbon windows, it looks almost like a ship cruising through the city—only it’s standing still.
By the time this building was finished, the Streamline Moderne style was already starting to fade. So, in a way, it also hints at the International Style that would soon take over modern commercial buildings. Even so, the Kennell-Ellis Building is a strong example of its time and shows how skilled Wilmsen was with this elegant, forward-looking style.
There’s even a great story from its construction: the building’s bold, curved canopy was so unusual that the contractor got nervous about removing the concrete mold. In the end, Wilmsen himself had to step in and finish the job.
Eugene doesn’t have a lot of standout buildings from any historical period, which makes the Kennell-Ellis Building especially important. It’s a rare and beautiful example of a unique architectural style, and it’s definitely worth preserving.
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