Some people come to Portland for the scenery. Others come for the way of life. When New York-based Melvin Mark, Sr. first visited the area in the mid 1940s, it was nothing more than a quick visit to look at property investment opportunities. Liking what he saw, he sent his son, Pete Mark to take care of business. Taking care, he did, loving the area so much he decided to make Portland his home. With that, the Melvin Mark Companies was founded in 1945.

Before long, Melvin Mark, Sr. made the first of many acquisitions — an investment in historic downtown buildings that remained a cornerstone of the company for more than five decades. That same year, he also handed the day-to-day management reins of the new company to his son. For more than 35 years, this second-generation Mark led the company from historic buildings to modern high-rises to complete complexes. Names like Crown Plaza, Columbia Square and Robert Duncan Plaza became synonymous with Melvin Mark — and the Portland skyline.

Portland, Oregon, is hailed as one of the most livable cities in the country. From its pedestrian-friendly half-sized city blocks to its resolute use of parks and green spaces to its nationally renowned transit system, the downtown core and surrounding environs are as dynamic and vibrant as the people who call this area home.