Portland, OR- The designer's guide to...

I had the great fortune of being hired to work on a project in Portland, OR by a client who's house I completed in Hermosa Beach about 6 months ago. My client moved up there for work about a year, so I helped him set up his temporary digs at that time. He has moved again, so I had the chance to set up his new, and much improved, space. Located in the Pearl District, his loft like condo is fast becoming the hot new design template for the rest of the new construction. Luckily, the Pearl is also home to an abundance of amazing design shops, so I didn't have to go very far to score some excellent pieces. There also isn't any sales tax in Oregon, so my budget expanded quite a bit! So here's a list of some of my favorite spots in Portland. I highly suggest taking a trip there for everything from the food to the architecture and all the great design in between.

Bedford Brown- This garden/accessories shop is a spot that I could comb through all day and drop a lot of dough without feeling too bad about it :) They have an excellent selection of lamps, vases, and various decorative pieces that have a gorgeous handcrafted feel that works in a modern setting (my client) or a home full of antiques. I even took a bunch of photos of pieces I liked just in case they worked in a future project! Here's a shot of the lamp I purchased in the office of my client.

Cargo (380 NW 13th Ave Portland, OR 97209Phone: (503) 243-7804 )- This huge warehouse is filled with everything Asian. It's a treasure chest of antiqued painted furniture, funky Asian framed prints, endless accessories and a fun section of modern Chinese toys and party favors. If you're looking for a valuable antique, this isn't the place, but you can definitely find some fun pieces to bring a little life to your space. Below is a photo of a gorgeous blue dresser that, unfortunately, couldn't find its way into my client's space.

Hunt and Gather- I love love love this place! I'm a mirror freak (wow that sounds narcissistic), but only because they are usually less pricey than a piece of artwork and make for a very finished room (and it doesn't hurt to be able to check your teeth every once in awhile). This place is chock full of great mirrors, custom furniture, great accessories and art, and a totally relaxed vibe. I'm not sure why I didn't take any photos here, but below is a shot of a typical building in the Pearl.

This portion of The Designer's Guide to...is getting lengthy, and I work for a living, so I will leave you with this last important bit of advice. Go to Everett Street Bistro. Don't question it, why would you question it? Just order the clam chowder and the braised short ribs and call it a night, and if you must, add the flourless chocolate cake, and if you're trying to really enjoy yourself, order a glass of the A to Z Wineworks Chardonnay (local Oregon wine) or perhaps the entire bottle. Of course, I wouldn't suggest the Chardonnay in the fall or winter, but in the last days of summer, it just felt right...