Industrial Elegance in the Pearl
Location: Everett West, Pearl District, Portland, OR
Tile: Ann Sacks
When a high school acquaintance reached out for help transforming a raw, stripped-down building in Portland’s Pearl District, I knew this would be no ordinary project. I was excited to hear that my client was ready to take her successful catering company, Artemis Catering, to the next level, by making it into a premier event space.
What began as a simple request for color consultations quickly evolved into a full-scale design endeavor, transforming the space from dirt floors to a refined, Northwest-inspired setting for hosting memorable events.
The Everett West Event Space was crafted as a versatile venue for weddings, corporate events, and private parties—a stylish, thoughtfully designed canvas upon which others could work their own magic. My design team created a cohesive look that honors Portland’s industrial roots while bringing warmth and elegance to every corner.
Key Design Elements and Scope
Salvaged wood planks from Salvage Works were central to the design. We opted for a modern Northwest warmth with dark-stained wood walls as primary feature points. To elevate the space, we embedded gold plates throughout the woodwork to catch light subtly and created a mid-century star pattern with oversized brass knobs and backplates, adding a striking, understated elegance.
Statement Walls with Northwest Character
The heart of the space is defined by an iconic and retro chandelier with a star-like shape, chosen specifically for its dramatic impact in photographs—especially weddings. Behind this, we sourced a custom faux-concrete paint finish on the wall, adding a nod to Portland’s industrial style and creating an eye-catching focal point that’s perfect for photos.
Iconic Lighting and Feature Wall
Each bathroom was designed with its own unique vibe. The mens' bathroom features Ann Sacks mid-century tile, smoky mirrors, a modern and handsome light fixture, and a statement print of Jack Nicholson blowing cigar smoke rings, adding a touch of bold character. The women’s bathroom, in contrast, is light and elegant, with a serene underwater artwork of a woman swimming upwards, symbolizing the feeling of surfacing for air. We used Ann Sacks tile here as well, balancing sophistication with whimsy.
Mid-Century Inspired Bathrooms
We transformed the green room, which was originally an unfinished space, into a comfortable, stylish area for guests to prepare. A long mirrored bar with layered wallpaper adds depth and charm, while mirrored panels on storage doors maximize reflection and create a spacious feel. A small sink and carefully curated lighting complete the setup, making it both functional and photogenic.
The Green Room
We embraced the existing plank barriers, refinishing them with fresh wood and painting the metal frames. These serve as subtle dividers while allowing flexibility for decorations. Bistro lights, a new dark paint for the building exterior, and a refreshed, clean aesthetic create an inviting outdoor space, perfect for intimate ceremonies or gatherings under the stars.
By blending industrial elements like concrete and metal with locally sourced woods, mid-century details, and thoughtful lighting, we infused Everett West with a warm, versatile, and authentically Portland feel. We selected each element to support the space’s mission as a backdrop for creativity, connection, and celebration.
