When Bright Designlab was conceived in 2009, we knew that Portland – with its rich culture of creativity and diversity – was ripe and ready to offer the influx of burgeoning creatives a deep well of inspiration. For over a decade, the Bright team has lived and thrived within the heart of this beloved city; it seems everywhere you turn, you can expect to be captured by highly curated galleries, innovative restaurants, myriad lofts, and an array of one-of-a-kind business ventures – some unique only to Portland. Of course, the designer in me deeply appreciates the thoughtfully executed architecture that this town holds – interesting structures, both historic and new, stir our imaginations, and help elevate the designs we create. Here we highlight a few of the architectural buildings that illuminate our minds to the possibility of design.
Photo: Beam Development
SLATE | WORKS PROGRESS ARCHITECTURE
Architectural design has the capability to ignite our sensory experiences and bring strong emotion to the forefront of our minds. Portland’s Slate offers us just that – with its strong lean into cubism, dynamic curb appeal, and a serious juxtaposition of textures. Local architecture firm Works Progress Architecture crafted the Slate residential building along with Beam Development and UDP, which was carefully executed in 2016, a design that reflects the eclectic nature of PDX’s Burnside Bridgehead neighborhood. The buildings' jagged, yet clean, edges result in a structure that is “particular and universal at the same time,” they say. “It’s the embodiment of a progressively adaptive and evolving district; the facades create a framework of activities — episodic views that collage to form a hive of activity." Fortunately for me, that hive is where I find rest, introspection, and renewal over the last 6 years– it’s my own home.
SKYLAB ARCHITECTURE
A band of makers — curious, industrious and experimental – Portland’s Skylab Architecture seeks to explore, curate and innovate. For over two decades have been forging a path in Portland’s design world that gives a platform for new and forward thinking; I’ve always been drawn to their keen ability to bring the unseen imagination of space and futuristic design to life. Speaking to architecture is critical in the design process for us; the way a space looks, feels, sounds, and smells transforms the way we approach our work.
Photo: Base Design + Architecture
BASE DESIGN + ARCHITECTURE
Base Design + Architecture is a brigade of artists that offers pockets of inspiration and wonder. Their minimalist style and understanding of light are gateways to creative thrills for our team of designers. Base’s impressive portfolio speaks to their high level of conceptual and simplistic design. We love the way that we can now spot a signature Base structure, they have a fine skill of impressing their signature mark without ever replicating.
ANACAPA ARCHITECTURE
With stunning, show-stopping portfolio images, Anacapa Architecture creates structures so much more fascinating than what meets the eye. Their design approach focuses on experimentation and the effects that our built world has on the natural environment. Their minimalistic, but intricate homes and offices focus on wellbeing, community, and function – an ethos that every good designer ought to embrace. Much like my own, Anacapa’s roots stretch all the way from Santa Barbara to the Oregon coast. Community lives at the center of all they do, and we’re continually inspired by their work.
INSPIRATION OF OUR OWN
Every space tells a story when woven through the work of architects and interior designers. Our most successful projects are ones born out of a collective mind inspired by thoughtful architecture. Throughout the years we’ve learned that collaborating on beautifully designed spaces frees us to complement each other’s strengths and keep the vision a priority. Tell us your story, we will listen.
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