PORTLAND, Ore. -- It’s hip to be square.

Construction on KGW’s Studio on the Square across from Pioneer Courthouse is under way.

The permanent, HD studio in Portland’s living room will take over the old Powell’s Books space. KGW General Manager DJ Wilson said the station will broadcast morning and noon news live along with a new 7 p.m. show.

Current designs envision floor-to-ceiling glass that will enable the public to watch the anchors at work.

 LIVE CAM: Track progress

 Slideshow: Studio construction

 Blog: Studio@ 7

The public will also be able to walk along a side wall and look into the studio to watch behind the scenes work.

Wilson also envisions multiple TV monitors inside the front glass, pointing out toward the square, that will broadcast KGW TV, Northwest Cable News, KGW.COM or digital weather updates.

KGW graphic