Built in 1909, The Bruce Apartments is one of Northwest Portland’s early purpose-built apartment houses. In an era when the prestigious Alphabet District was transitioning from grand single-family estates to upscale apartment living, The Bruce emerged to offer spacious homes with the latest conveniences. It was named “The Bruce” from the outset, likely honoring a person or family, and its name has endured for over a century. Architecturally, the building mirrors the neighborhood’s turn-of-the-century style: a robust structure of three stories, clad in traditional siding with a symmetrical façade and a modest portico entry.

Inside, original layouts provided seven expansive 3-bedroom apartments, each designed with separate living and dining rooms, multiple bedrooms, and large kitchens – signaling a commitment to comfortable long-term residency. These generous units attracted families and professionals, contributing to the area’s legacy as a “City within a City,” where residents could live, work, and socialize locally. Over time, The Bruce has been lovingly maintained and periodically upgraded.

It stands today not only as a residential building but also as a piece of Portland’s cultural fabric: mentioned in city directories as early as 1918 and 1934, and still known by its historic name. Its continued use as housing for over 100 years speaks to its solid construction and the timeless appeal of its location.

The Bruce’s story is woven into the narrative of NW 25th Avenue, a street lined with vintage apartments, reflecting how Portland’s affluent westside embraced multi-family living without sacrificing neighborhood character.