The ModBlog - Modern Architecture & Design

The Influence of Japanese Design on Northwest Contemporary Architecture

Sat, 28 Feb 2026 18:25:45 GMT

If you've ever walked through a mid-century home in Portland or Seattle and felt an unusual sense of calm you were likely responding to something with very deep roots. The architecture of the Pacific Northwest, particularly the residential style that emerged after World War II, owes a profound debt to the design traditions of Japan.

Geography and immigration has something to do with it but it's not the sole reason. Think about the similar landscapes the two regions share and it starts to make sense. We share steep, f orested terrain, temperate but rain-heavy climates, and a building culture shaped by an abundance of wood. So when architects in the Pacific Northwest began searching for modern inspiration in the 1930s and 1940s, they found that Japanese builders had already solved many of the same problems.

The conversation between Japanese and Northwest design begins with the land itself. Both regions are defined by mountains, dense forests, and a climate that alternates between long stretches of overcast skies and moments of transcendent natural beauty. In both places, wood is the native building material, and the relationship between a structure and its site has always been treated as something close to sacred.

Traditional Japanese architecture evolved under specific constraints. Earthquake risk demanded light, flexible timber framing. Heavy seasonal rains called for broad, overhanging rooflines. The result was a building tradition defined by post-and-beam construction , deep eaves, sliding screens, and an invitation to bring the outside in.

Shared Ground

The Architects Who Listened

Frank Lloyd Wright was himself deeply shaped by Japanese aesthetics. He first encountered Japanese design at the 1893 Chicago Columbian Exposition, became a collector of ukiyo-e woodblock prints, and visited Japan multiple times between 1905 and 1922. He admired what he called the "organic character" of Japanese art. His ideas about organic architecture filtered directly into Pacific Northwest design.

In Oregon, the pioneers of the regional style carried that thread further. John Yeon , the largely self-taught designer whose celebrated 1937 Watzek House helped establish Northwest Modernism on the national stage, was a passionate collector of Asian art. His buildings were described by historians Gideon Bosker and Lena Lencek as unfolding on the landscape "like the painted panels of a Japanese screen." His contemporary, the Italian-born architect Pietro Belluschi , was equally drawn to Japanese precedents. His 1938 Sutor House is widely recognized for combining Pacific Northwest Regionalism with Japanese minimalism. Belluschi befriended a prominent Japanese landscape architect while lecturing at the University of Oregon, and that relationship deepened the Asian influences visible throughout his work, from curving wooden gates reminiscent of temple architecture to woven wood ceilings of extraordinary craft.

Saul Zaik , the next generation's most prolific residential architect in Portland, carried these ideas forward into the 1950s, '60s, and '70s. His homes, with their floor-to-ceiling windows, exposed beam ceilings, and asymmetrical plans nestled into forested hillsides, spoke a language simultaneously modern American and unmistakably informed by Japanese spatial sensibilities. The same can be said of William Fletcher , Van Evera Bailey , John Storrs, and Paul Hayden Kirk in Seattle.

Even Robert Rummer , the developer who brought modern design to middle-class Portland families, felt the pull. Rummer homes are known for their interior atriums, their integration of indoor and outdoor space, and their nods to Japanese garden design. Some homeowners have replaced suburban lawns with Japanese maples, mugo pines, and stone gardens. That's a Rummer home in the banner above showing a Japanese garden.

The Japanese Principles That Endure

What makes the Japanese influence on Northwest architecture so enduring is that it operates at the level of principle, not decoration. It is not about just installing shoji screens and tatami mats in a house, as much as we like them. Let's review what it really means.

Primacy of natural materials

In both traditions, wood is not concealed behind drywall or paint. It is exposed, celebrated, and allowed to age. Cedar, fir, and hemlock are treated as defining elements of a home's character, not structural necessities to be hidden.

Removing boundaries between inside and outside

Floor-to-ceiling glass, covered walkways, interior courtyards, and carefully framed views all serve the same purpose: making the experience of being in a building feel continuous with the experience of being in nature.

Structural clarity

Japanese architecture insists that you should be able to understand how a building is made by looking at it. Post-and-beam construction, exposed joinery, and visible roof structures all express this value. Northwest architects adopted the same ethic, rejecting concealed framing in favor of an architecture that wears its bones on the outside.

Restraint

This may be the most difficult to achieve, as some homebuilders want to give the client more than they asked for and they do it by adding unnecessary design. But the Japanese concept of ma , the meaningful use of empty space, finds its echo in the spare interiors and uncluttered sight lines of Northwest homes. What you leave out of a design matters as much as what you put in.

A Living Tradition

These principles have had an indelible effect on Portland, and continue to shape the homes being built and restored across the Pacific Northwest. The Portland Japanese Garden , with its Cultural Village designed by architect Kengo Kuma, stands as a living testament to the depth of this cross-Pacific exchange. And who doesn't love seeing the Cherry Blossoms bloom along the Willamette each spring?

Understanding this lineage can add a greater appreciation of the architecture for anyone considering a mid-century or Northwest contemporary home here in Portland. These homes are the product of a decades-long conversation between two cultures that, separated by an ocean, arrived at remarkably similar conclusions about how we can and should live among trees, rain, and mountains.

Post-and-Beam Construction

Tue, 17 Feb 2026 22:51:36 GMT

The Engineering Innovation That Liberated Modern Architecture

Walk into almost any mid-century modern home in Portland and look up. Chances are you'll see big, horizontal beams stretching across the ceiling supported by vertical posts, creating a rhythmic pattern that defines the space. This isn't just decoration. It's post-and-beam construction , and it's the structural innovation that made mid-century modern architecture possible.

Without post-and-beam construction, we wouldn't have those iconic walls of glass, those open floor plans that flow from living room to kitchen to outdoor deck, or those dramatic cantilevers that make houses appear to float over hillsides. Understanding how this ancient building technique got reimagined for the modern era helps explain why mid-century homes look and feel the way they do. Let's dive in.

Like all good architecture, post-and-beam construction is elegantly simple. The vertical posts (or columns) support horizontal beams, which in turn support the roof. The weight of the structure flows through these primary structural members rather than being distributed through load-bearing walls. This fundamental difference changes everything about how you can design a building.

In traditional stick-frame construction the walls do the heavy lifting. This is the kind of traditional construction used in most houses built before and after the mid-century modern era. Studs running through exterior and certain interior walls support the roof and floors above. This means you can't just go around removing walls or cutting big holes for windows because those walls are holding up the house.

Post-and-beam flips this logic. Since the posts and beams are carrying the structural load, the walls between them become rather optional. They're not actually holding anything up. Instead they're just dividing space inside or keeping weather out. This simple shift opened up revolutionary possibilities for architects.

The Basic Concept

Ancient Technique for a Modern Application

Post-and-beam construction was nothing new when modern architects embraced it in the early 20th century. It's been used for millennia around the world and here by Native Americans. What made it revolutionary in mid-century modern architecture was applying this old technique with new materials and new design intentions.

Local Portland architects like John Yeon , Pietro Belluschi , and Saul Zaik , like their contemporaries around the country, saw post-and-beam as a way to achieve several goals simultaneously. They could create open, flowing spaces. They could bring the outdoors inside through generous glazing . And they could use local materials like Douglas fir in ways that honored both modernist principles and regional building traditions.

Here's what Post-and-Beam Made Possible

Walls of Glass
This is the most obvious benefit. Since walls aren't structural, you can replace them entirely with glass. Want floor-to-ceiling windows across an entire side of your house? No problem - the posts are holding up the roof, so the space between them can be pure transparency. This is how mid-century architects achieved that signature move of dissolving the boundary between indoor and outdoor space.

Open Floor Plans
With posts carrying the load, interior walls become suggestions rather than necessities. The classic mid-century open-plan living area - where kitchen, dining, and living spaces flow together - is only possible because those spaces don't need walls between them for structural support. You might have a post or two defining different zones, but the space can remain visually connected.

Dramatic Cantilevers
Some of the most striking mid-century homes feature sections that appear to hang in space, cantilevered out over hillsides or projecting beyond the foundation. Post-and-beam construction made these dramatic gestures structurally feasible. The beams can extend beyond their supporting posts, creating overhangs that shelter outdoor spaces or simply create dynamic forms.

Flexible Interiors
Since interior walls aren't structural, homeowners can reconfigure spaces relatively easily. Want to combine two bedrooms into one? Remove that wall - it's not holding anything up. This flexibility appealed to mid-century architects who believed homes should adapt to how people actually live.

Materials Do Matter - Especially Here!

In the Pacific Northwest, post-and-beam construction found ideal material in old-growth Douglas fir . These trees could yield massive beams with minimal processing, which was the kind of large-dimension timbers needed to span significant distances. How lucky for us! The grain patterns and warm tones of the wood also aligned perfectly with the Northwest modern aesthetic that valued natural materials.

Architects like Saul Zaik and William Fletcher used these Douglas fir beams both structurally and aesthetically. Left exposed, often with their natural finish or stained in earth tones like Rodda Paint 's Oxford Brown (a Rummer home staple), the beams became prominent visual elements that organized the interior space while providing the structural framework.

The spacing of posts and beams also created a natural rhythm and proportion. A. Quincy Jones, who influenced Robert Rummer 's work, advocated for a six-foot-four-inch grid of posts. This dimension worked well for standard building materials and created pleasing proportions in residential spaces. The regular spacing of vertical posts marching across a facade or through an interior became a signature of Northwest modern design.

Post-and-beam construction isn't perfect for every situation. Those posts, while small compared to full walls, still take up space and define traffic patterns in the house. You can't have completely open living spaces as the posts have to land somewhere. Architects had to carefully consider post placement so they wouldn't awkwardly interrupt living spaces or block important views. You can also forget about storing things in the attic as post-and-beam homes typically have no drop ceilings or attic space.

The system also requires quality materials and skilled construction. Those large beams need to be properly sized to span the distances required, and the connections between posts and beams need to be engineered correctly. In the mid-century era, this wasn't always cheap, which is one reason post-and-beam modern homes could sometimes be more expensive than conventional stick-frame construction. That makes the achievements of designers like Eichler and Rummer even more impressive as they brought this modern construction to the masses in tract homes that middle class families could afford.

Post-and-Beam Limitations

Post-and-beam construction remains popular in contemporary architecture, particularly here in the Pacific Northwest where it feels like part of the landscape and regional style. Modern engineers can now achieve similar effects with steel or engineered lumber, but many architects still choose heavy timber post-and-beam for its aesthetic qualities and connection to mid-century modern precedents.

When you visit a mid-century modern home and admire those sweeping views through glass walls, or appreciate how seamlessly interior and exterior spaces connect, you're seeing something that's only made possible by post-and-beam construction. It's the structural logic that made mid-century modern architecture's most beloved qualities possible. Those qualities are still in demand today and are a refreshing alternative to the cheap McMansions that seem to be everywhere these days.

Why It's Still Relevant

Modern or Contemporary? Let's Clear That Up.

Mon, 09 Feb 2026 19:51:06 GMT

Mid-century modern is essentially the American residential interpretation of this Modern movement. Those iconic 1950s and '60s homes with their flat or low-pitched roofs, floor-to-ceiling windows, and open floor plans? That's modern architecture. A Rummer home in Portland's Eastmoreland neighborhood? Modern. A John Yeon house in the West Hills? Modern. An Eichler in California? Definitely modern.

Contemporary Is What's Happening Now

Contemporary architecture, on the other hand, is a moving target. It literally means "of the current time" - whatever that time happens to be. Contemporary design is what architects are creating today, using current materials, technologies, and aesthetic preferences.

In the 1960s, contemporary architecture looked very different from what we call contemporary today. In 2025, contemporary homes might feature sleek minimalist lines, sustainable materials, smart home technology, and innovative eco-friendly engineering. In 2045, contemporary will mean something else entirely.

Contemporary architecture tends to be more experimental and varied than modern architecture. While Modern (with a capital M) had fairly defined principles and characteristics, contemporary design is all over the map. Some contemporary homes lean heavily on the modern aesthetic - you might even call them "modern-inspired contemporary" - while others incorporate traditional elements, natural materials, or bold sculptural forms that mid-century modernists would never have imagined.

The key thing to understand is that modern architecture is historical and contemporary architecture is current . When you say you love modern homes, technically you're expressing appreciation for a design philosophy that was around decades ago. What trips people up is that Modern and contemporary overlapped in the mid-20th century. For example a mid-century modern home built in 1955 was both Modern (part of the movement) and contemporary (the latest style).

Modern or Contemporary: The Key Differences

Time Period

Modern = a specific historical movement from roughly 1920s-1960s
Contemporary = right now, whatever "now" happens to be

Philosophy
Modern = strict design principles, form follows function, rejection of ornamentation
Contemporary = eclectic, experimental, incorporates current influences and technologies

Materials
Modern = steel, glass, concrete, plywood - industrial materials used in innovative ways for the time
Contemporary = whatever's popular and cutting-edge today - sustainable materials, high-performance glass, engineered wood products, recycled materials

Aesthetics
Modern = horizontal lines, open floor plans, integration with nature, post-and-beam construction, minimal ornamentation
Contemporary = varies widely but often includes asymmetrical forms, large windows placed strategically (not necessarily walls of glass), mixed materials, sustainable design features.

Rooflines
Modern = flat or low-pitched roofs, often with significant overhangs
Contemporary = all over the map - flat, shed, gabled, or complex geometric forms

Why This Is So Confusing

Many contemporary architects draw heavily on Modern design principles. They love those clean lines, open spaces, and honest use of materials. So a home built in 2026 might look remarkably similar to a home built in 1956 - but one is contemporary (built now) and one is modern (built during the Modern era).

Unfortunately a lot of real estate brokers and people in the industry use "modern" as a catch-all term for anything that doesn't look traditional. And then there's the phrase "contemporary modern" or "modern contemporary" which really doesn't mean much - it's essentially redundant, like saying "current historical." What they probably mean is "a newly built home with modern-inspired design." I really hope real estate agents are reading this and it helps them describe their modern and contemoprary listings more accurately.

How This Plays Out in Portland

Here in Portland we have the whole spectrum of true Modern homes and beautiful contemporary homes that have been inspired by modern design.

If you're looking at a home in Eastmoreland or Oak Hills built in the 1960s with an atrium, post-and-beam construction, and clerestory windows then you're looking at a Modern home, specifically a mid-century modern home. It's a piece of architectural history from the Modern movement.

But if you're looking at a newly built home in the Alberta Arts District or in Happy Valley with clean lines, lots of glass, and sustainable features - that's a contemporary home. It might be heavily influenced by modern design principles, but it's using current construction methods, current materials, and current energy standards.

Just to take it to the next level, Rummer Development is still building Robert Rummer homes in the Portland area. That means you can actually build a contemporary home that is an exact copy of a mid-century modern home on your own lot. Very cool!

Modern is When; Contemporary is Now

I could go on and with examples about all of this, but hopefully the point is made. Modern architecture is a historical style from a specific era. Think Mad Men and Eames chairs . It's characterized by specific design principles and a particular aesthetic that emerged from that moment in time.

Contemporary architecture is whatever's being designed and built right now. It's often influenced by modern principles (and many other styles too), but it's using today's materials, today's technologies, and today's design thinking.

So the next time someone describes a home as "modern contemporary," you'll know they probably mean "a new home with clean, minimal design inspired by mid-century modern principles" - even if that's not exactly what they're saying.

I can't tell you how many times I've looked at real estate listings and seen a house described as "modern contemporary" and not being sure if it's either, or if it can be both. The two terms get thrown around interchangeably so much that even people in the real estate industry get them mixed up. But here's the thing: modern and contemporary are actually two distinct design styles, and understanding the difference can help you in your home search and in your appreciation of the style. So let's clear that up.

Modern Is a Specific Time Period

When we speak broadly about "modern architecture," we're actually talking about the design movement that had its heyday roughly from the 1920s through the late 1960s. Think of it as Modern architecture with a capital M, because it's tied to a particular moment in history.

The Modern movement emerged as a radical departure from the ornate Victorian and traditional styles of the time. Architects like Frank Lloyd Wright, Ludwig Mies van der Rohe, and Le Corbusier championed the idea that form should follow function . BTW I once had a friend who was a fan of Frank Lloyd Wright and he had two parakeets named Form & Function. Well, one day poor Function passed away and the way my friend told me was a note saying "Form no longer has anyone to follow."

Anyway, those revolutionaries changed everything when they stripped away useless decorative elements, embraced new industrial materials like steel and glass, and created buildings that were open with clean lines and exposed construction elements.

Why Portland and Seattle Became Hubs for Modern Residential Architecture

Fri, 14 Nov 2025 21:26:00 GMT

The Pacific Northwest has become one of the most influential regions in the country for modern residential architecture, and two cities in particular stand at the center of that story. Portland and Seattle have embraced contemporary design in a way that feels authentic to the landscape, the climate, and the culture of the region. Their approach is not about trends or flashy statements. Instead, it is rooted in lifestyle, sustainability, and a deep respect for the natural environment. This combination has made both cities magnets for homeowners and architects who are drawn to modern forms of living.

Both cities share a common thread. They celebrate homes that feel open, warm, and connected to the outside world. Architects in the region often use materials that honor the forests and waterways that define the Pacific Northwest, combining natural wood, expansive windows, sculptural rooflines, and flexible interior layouts. The result is a modern style that feels timeless but also deeply tied to the specific character of the region.

One of the major reasons Portland and Seattle became hubs for modern architecture is the culture of experimentation that thrives in both cities. For decades, residents have valued alternative housing types, custom design, and progressive forms of construction. This mindset helped architects push boundaries and refine the Northwest Contemporary aesthetic. The region embraced modernism in the mid twentieth century through the work of designers like Van Evera Bailey , Pietro Belluschi , and John Yeon , who believed that a home should work in harmony with the land. Later, builders like Robert Rummer brought these ideas to a broader audience through communities of affordable modern homes that remain sought after today.

The local climate has also shaped the modern architecture in unique ways. With months of overcast skies and rain, designers prioritized natural light and indoor spaces that feel open and inviting. Floor to ceiling windows, clerestory windows and carefully oriented skylights have become essential tools for soft daylighting. Covered patios, deep overhangs, and protected outdoor rooms extend usable space throughout the year. These practical features form a core part of what makes Pacific Northwest modernism so distinctive.

Sustainability has long been a driving force in both cities. Portland and Seattle were early adopters of green building practices and energy efficient design, and local homeowners have consistently supported ecological approaches. Architects in the region often incorporate renewable materials, advanced insulation techniques, passive ventilation, and durable low maintenance finishes. These principles align naturally with modern architecture, which emphasizes clean lines, honest materials, and functional simplicity.

Another factor is the natural beauty of their surrounding landscapes. The region is defined by towering evergreens, volcanic mountains, and dramatic coastlines, and the architecture often mirrors these bold natural forms. Homes frequently sit on sloping lots or wooded sites, encouraging designs that step with the terrain and create framed views of the surroundings. The landscape does not just serve as a backdrop - it becomes an active partner in the design.

The culture of local craftsmanship has also contributed to the rise of modern homes. Both cities have proud communities of fabricators, woodworkers, metalworkers, and artisans who collaborate closely with architects. This hands on approach elevates even modest homes and helps create clean, modern details without losing the warmth and craft that define the region. Just look at how that collaboration translated into the beautiful new PDX airport !

Today, Portland and Seattle continue to attract architects and buyers who value contemporary design. The cities offer an environment where creativity is supported, sustainable building is expected, and natural beauty surrounds daily life. The modern homes found across the Pacific Northwest are not just reflections of global trends. They express the personality of two cities that have grown around innovation, nature, and a shared belief in better ways of living.

How Eco-Friendly Modern Homes Revolutionize Today’s Market

Sun, 14 Jan 2024 00:00:00 GMT

The environmental impact of modern life is becoming an increasing concern. People want to live more sustainable lives and limit their impact on the environment. For many, eco-friendly modern homes have a significant role in making our lives more sustainable. Real estate markets are seeing increased interest in sustainable living, changing the way homebuyers look for homes. It is also creating a shift in the ways builders, developers, and real estate agents operate.

The Impact Of Eco-Friendly Modern Homes

A New Priority Among Homebuyers

Sustainability is becoming a key priority for homebuyers, and this is especially true among younger generations. While interest in eco-friendly homes is increasing for all age groups, younger people see it as more important. Many of these younger buyers say it is a priority and that they would pay more for sustainable housing.

A Wise Investment

Homebuyers are starting to view green homes as a good investment. They know other homebuyers have the same priorities and that eco-friendly features hold value. They also know that sustainability will be an attractive selling point if they ever need to sell the home.

Return On Investment

Buyers also prize sustainability because it can pay them back over time. A more efficient home can save the owner money by saving water, electricity, and other resources. The eco-friendly features pay you back with lower utility bills from using less electricity from the grid and conserving water.

Green Incentives

It isn’t just about the lower utility bills or increasing the home’s value. Many governments provide incentives for going green. Federal, state, and local governments offer tax incentives and rebates for various green building projects. These programs incentivize the building of sustainable housing, and they can also make it more affordable for buyers.

Impact On Rental Properties

Sustainability is also having an impact on rental properties. Younger adults make up much of the rental market. If rental property owners want to attract the best tenants, they need to appeal to the desire for green housing.

Find Your Eco-Friendly Modern Home

Sustainability is a trend that is only going to continue to grow. People want to do their part to conserve resources and protect the environment. Increasing utility costs are becoming a more significant concern as well.

Landscaping Ideas For Your Modern Home

Tue, 09 Jan 2024 00:00:00 GMT

Many of us consider our homes to be our castles, but for some, the outdoor space is where we define what we want from our homes. It can be a refuge from the stresses of the modern world, a place to spend time relaxing with friends and loved ones, a recreation space for activities, or any other number of things. If you have a modern designed home, it can be tough to come up with landscaping ideas for your modern home.

Even if you didn’t pay much attention to the yard when you built your home, you could always take the opportunity to consider landscape ideas for your modern home. You don’t even need to be an expert in landscaping to cover many of these ideas.

Creative Hardscape

The standard concrete patio is a thing of the past. Modern home designers look for different options to create hardscape features that stand out, including concrete and bricks in different colors, designs, and shapes. Instead of a straight path like a sidewalk, you might go for a winding path or use bricks or pavers to make the path more visually attractive.

Outdoor Entertainment Spaces

Outdoor entertaining was much simpler in the old days. With some modern homes, designers and homeowners try to create entertainment spaces that rival your indoor options—interesting hardscape features such as foundations or structures. Or you might see outdoor game rooms or a backyard theater with a projector. Nothing is off the table!

Landscaping With Levels

Another popular feature of some modern landscape designs is using multiple levels, which can work to make a smaller yard appear more spacious. Elements to create a multi-level landscape include walls, stairs, slopes, raised garden beds, planters, and various hardscape features. This can be a great addition to the landscaping ideas for your modern home design.

Overgrown Structures

If you are looking for a feature of modern landscape design that will bring more life to your yard, you could consider adding outdoor structures like pergolas, trellises, and arbors. These structures can be perfect for creating different areas of the yard or for focusing attention, but they also benefit from being great for climbing plants.

Many people fail to pay enough attention to landscaping when designing a modern home. They end up with a structure that perfectly meets their goals to the smallest detail, but the outdoor spaces seem uninteresting or as if they were an afterthought.

What Does LEED Certified Mean?

Thu, 30 Mar 2023 00:00:00 GMT

The desire for a more sustainable life is growing. People want to conserve resources, live in healthier homes, and do what they can to protect the environment. This demand leads many to the idea of a LEED-certified project.

LEED Certified Projects

LEED stands for Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design. It is a third-party rating system and certification program run by the US Green Building Council (USGBC). The idea behind LEED is to offer a framework for designing and constructing healthier, more sustainable, and cost-efficient buildings. LEED is currently the most widely accepted standard for green building practices today. Buildings of all types can apply for LEED certification.

The LEED Rating System

A building or project can obtain LEED certification by earning points in different categories. Projects must undergo a verification process to determine how well the building adheres to set standards. Points are then awarded based on how well the building meets the standards.

The LEED green building program offers different levels of certification. A project can reach different levels depending on the number of points they get during the review process. The following are the rating levels available in the LEED rating system:

Certified: 40-49 points
Silver: 50-59 points
Gold: 60-79 points
Platinum: Over 80 points

Any project that scores lower than 40 fails to meet the minimum standards for certification. However, the different levels of certification reflect higher levels of achievement in sustainability, healthiness, efficiency, and environmental protection.

LEED Rating Factors

The LEED rating system covers several factors to determine a project’s score. The scoring can also differ depending on the building project. The following are some of the factors that count toward a project’s LEED score:

Sustainable Sites
Location & Transportation
Water Efficiency
Energy Efficiency
Materials and Resources
Indoor Environmental Quality
Integrative Process

Investing In LEED Certified Homes

LEED-certified homes have a lot to offer. To start, the green building standard of the USGBC ensures that structures are at the height of efficiency and sustainability. When you own a LEED-certified home, you know you are doing your part to protect the environment and conserve resources for future generations.

Along with that, LEED homes save money. The conservation of resources means that you will spend less on utilities. The savings can be considerable if you plan to live in the home for many years.

LEED-certified homes are also a wise investment. Many homebuyers value the certification because it speaks to the quality and value of the home.

Window Treatment Experts In Portland

Mon, 02 Jan 2023 00:00:00 GMT

Finding the right window treatments is often the most challenging part of designing a room. You want them to be functional, but you also want them to fit your style. Working with a window treatment expert can be one way to ensure you get the right coverings for your windows. Check out the following window treatment experts in Portland for blinds, curtains, shades, and more.

4 Window Treatment Experts In Portland

Bolliger Window Fashions

2834 NE Broadway Street – (503) 281-1236

Whether it is for a home or business, you can’t go wrong with Bolliger Window Fashions . They are a local, family-owned business. Their range includes shades and blinds of all sorts. They also have custom drapes and curtains. You can also count on them for onsite consultations and expert installation services. Beyond window treatments, they also offer upholstery services for furniture. They also repair old blinds and shades.

Skyline Window Coverings

2281 NW Glisan Street, Suite 100 – (503) 717-6746

Skyline Window Coverings is one of Portland’s top names for window treatments. They offer a unique array of products that can cover all your needs. You can get various designs of blinds, shades, shutters, and curtains. They also have a designer that can help you achieve your vision of the perfect window designs. Let them know what you need, and they can help you find the right products for your home.

Stoneside Blinds & Shades

2175 NW Raleigh Street, Suite 110 – (360) 719-4116

With Stoneside Blinds & Shades , you get a local company offering custom window treatments in Portland. They have a broad selection of blinds, shades, and curtains to meet the needs of almost any customer. Their team is also ready to work closely with you to help you find the right solution. They offer free in-home design consultations to help customers choose window treatments. You can also take advantage of their virtual consultation services if you can’t make an in-person appointment.

Valley Shades

8040 SE Cora Street – 503-489-8321

This shop has a wide range of products, and its services are flexible to meet the customer’s needs. Valley Shades is an excellent choice for custom shades and more. Beyond window shades, they offer products like blinds, curtains, and shutters. You can work with their team to find the right solution or measure the windows and order online. They also offer installation services if you need help hanging the window treatments.

Contact these window treatment experts in Portland for a quote.

Palm Springs Mid-Century Modern Tour Operators

Wed, 19 Oct 2022 00:00:00 GMT

You won’t find many places that have as much of a connection to modern design as Palm Springs . There is much to see, from iconic celebrity homes to classic commercial buildings. If you're a fan of mid-century design then hop a flight from PDX to Palm Springs and book a tour with a modern homes tour operator to see some of the most iconic designs in America.

These tour operators not only know their way around the city, but they are also knowledgeable about the architecture. Read this post to learn about Palm Springs’s modern tour services.

The Modern Tour

1000 S Palm Canyon Drive – 760-904-0904

The Modern Tour is one of the oldest modern architecture tours in Palm Springs. They have various tour packages that cover some of the most significant homes and neighborhoods in Palm Springs. The tours take about two hours, but the packages do vary. You get to see various famous homes, and the guide is a genuine expert in modern design. The tours are by reservation only, so you will need to book ahead of time.

Palm Springs Mod Squad

1800 E Palm Canyon Drive – 760-469-9265

It is hard to beat the tour options available from the Palm Springs Mod Squad . The Essential Tour is a great place to start. It covers the architects’ work that helped shape modern architecture in Palm Springs. The Interior Tour and Martini & MCM Tour are also incredible. They also offer custom tours for those with a particular interest in specific works.

PS Architecture Tours

323-578-6025

PS Architecture Tours offers an in-depth look at Palm Springs’s modernism. The main tour involves a ride in a mini-coach with the tour guide, Trevor O’Donnell. You will see many of the most notable structures in the city. Guests will also learn a lot about the history of the designs. They also offer a bike tour if you are looking for something a little more active.

Modern Tours Palm Springs

Modern Tours Palm Springs is a good option for people who want to tour at their own pace. Rather than being a tour operator, they sell guided self-tours. They have a variety of packages you can purchase for driving and walking tours. The tours have audio guides to provide information and Google Maps integrations to show you around. They have a variety of complete tours and a range of smaller pocket tours.

Portland Custom Cabinet Makers

Wed, 21 Sep 2022 00:00:00 GMT

As much as the practical function of cabinets is important, you also want them to fit the modern style of your kitchen. While stock cabinets are more affordable, custom cabinets offer way better craftsmanship and more versatility to fit in your space. If you're thinking of investing in custom cabinets check out these local Portland cabinet makers.

Four Portland Custom Cabinet Makers

Pacific Northwest Cabinetry

7190 SE King Road – (503) 652-1268

Pacific Northwest Cabinetry is a family-owned business that has been serving Portland for close to 30 years. They have a full custom cabinet shop and can design and build all sorts of cabinets. Apart from this, they style a wide assortment of materials. Other services include complete bathroom, and kitchen remodeling. While they are a little pricy, the quality of their work does make up for the cost.

Wolf & Son Cabinetmakers

4311 NE Prescott Street – (503) 421-7964

For one of the top names in high-end cabinetry, check out Wolf & Son Cabinetmakers . This company has been in business since 1998, and they have an excellent reputation. They do all their measurements, fabrication, and installation. The owner, Eric Wolf, is a skilled craftsman with strong attention to detail. They can help you design the cabinets, pick the right materials, and ensure everything fits your space.

Cutting Edge Custom Cabinets

8205 N Mississippi Avenue – (503) 342-7965

Cutting Edge Custom Cabinets is one of the top names for custom cabinets in the Pacific Northwest. This custom cabinet company has been in business for close to 30 years. They are an excellent choice for high-quality cabinets at affordable prices. Their team will work with you to design the perfect cabinets for your space. They can then build the cabinets and install them for you. You can choose from so many cabinet styles, constructions, and materials.

George Ramos Woodworking

2346 NE 46th Avenue – (503) 423-7906

George Ramos Woodworking is the company to call if you want skilled workmanship and a personal touch. Beyond custom cabinets, this company excels at working with different styles and periods. From mid-century modern to Victorian, they know how to meet the style and find the right materials. They also do complete kitchen remodels, bookcases, and period details for restoring vintage homes.

Top 7 Goals Of LEED Certified Projects

Wed, 13 Jul 2022 00:00:00 GMT

You may already be familiar with LEED certification. It is the most widely used standard for green building projects. The idea is to promote building projects that are better for the environment while also being better for us. The goals of LEED-certified projects can help us build better homes while conserving resources and protecting the environment.

The Goals Of LEED Certified Projects

Energy Efficiency

LEED projects strive to improve energy efficiency. The aim is to limit the structure’s contribution to global climate change while conserving resources. A study from 2010 indicates a 34% reduction in CO2 emissions from LEED buildings. However, advances in green technology have likely led to increasing efficiency since then.

Water Conservation

LEED projects also aim to conserve water resources. So, with many areas of the world facing water shortages, this will become an increasing focus for many projects. The designs of these buildings reduce water usage and implement features for water reuse.

Materials And Resources

The LEED program intends to promote the use of sustainable and eco-friendly materials. Along with choosing sustainable, eco-friendly materials, LEED also works to reduce waste. There is also a push in favor of using local materials over those that require transport over long distances.

Location And Transportation

Builders and designers should consider the project’s location and local transportation options. Part of the goal is to cut greenhouse gas emissions by reducing the need for driving a personal vehicle. Projects can achieve this by making public transport more accessible or designing areas with foot traffic.

Indoor Environment

Structures should increase comfort while contributing to human health. With this in mind, designers can enhance indoor environments with ventilation systems, natural light, material selection, and more.

Sustainable Sites

Builders should protect and respect the natural environment of the project. That means planning the project to reduce its impact on the ecosystem. The design should work with the local ecosystem instead of altering it. Project leaders should also take measures to avoid pollution at the site.

Integrative Process

The integrative process occurs early in the design phase of the project. The idea is to complete an assessment to identify opportunities for different systems or disciplines to work together. With the integrative process, designers can find more comprehensive solutions for implementing sustainable building practices.

Types Of Roofs For Mid-Century Modern Homes

Wed, 29 Jun 2022 00:00:00 GMT

Mid-century modern homes have an unmistakable style. The roofs are among the most striking features of mid-century modern homes. The roofing for mid-century modern homes can add an artistic touch to the design or make the home stand out. There are a few different styles of roofing common to mid-century home architecture. This post will look at the types of roofs on these homes.

Flat Roofs

The flat roof is one of the most recognizable elements of modern architecture. The straight line of a flat roof fits perfectly with the straight lines popular with these designs. That is why it is a popular type of roof for modern homes. It is a simple style of roof that works well with low-profile homes.

Shallow Pitch

Designs also commonly use roofs with a shallow pitch. They often meet at a ridge, with each side descending on a shallow slope. It is common to see the two sides coming off at different angles to give the home a distinctive look, a popular choice for ranch homes with a mid-century modern design.

Gabled

You will find gabled roofs in most styles of home architecture. The simple yet functional design makes sense to see in mid-century modern homes. Some designers may even incorporate the A-frame with other modern roof designs. One advantage of the gabled roof is that it offers additional space for an attic or loft.

Butterfly

The butterfly roof design can give a structure a striking appearance. This roof subverts conventional design ideas by inverting the slopes to angle them inward. It can provide a house with an artistic look with two opposing peaks.

Some designers may use the peaks to add windows high on the structure, which can be ideal for increasing the use of natural light in the home.

Single Slope

A single slope roof is another popular feature of many mid-century modern homes. It is a single plane like a flat roof but has a noticeable slope to one side. The house will have one wall taller than the other that meets the roof at its peak. The roof then slopes down to the shorter side of the structure.

Whatever type of mid-century modern roof appeals to you we can help you find it in our mid-century listings.The body content of your post goes here. To edit this text, click on it and delete this default text and start typing your own or paste your own from a different source.

Where To Buy Modern Furniture In Portland

Fri, 20 May 2022 00:00:00 GMT

You have your modern home - now you need some furniture to complement it. Fortunately for you Portland is FULL of modern, mid-century and just plain funky cool furniture stores. And you can even choose between new, vintage and used. Check out some of our favorite places to shop for modern furniture below, and tell us about any in the comments we missed.

Legacy Modern

2105 SE 7th Ave, Portland – (503) 270-6492

Legacy Modern is an excellent place to start your search for modern furniture. It is a family-owned, local business with an interesting modern furniture selection. Customers will not have any trouble finding help when searching for furniture. They have a great collection and work hard to help people find the right pieces.

Room & Board

380 NW 13th Ave, Portland – (503) 200-6900

The Portland branch of Room & Board is located in the Pearl District and is a destination for modern home furnishing and décor. Beyond the service at Room & Board, they also take great pride in offering a range of sustainable furniture pieces. If you want to fill out the entire interior of your modern home, you can find everything you need at Room & Board.

Hip Furniture

1829 NW 25th Ave, Portland – (503) 225-5017

Hip Furniture is one of the best places to check out if you want high-end modern furniture and décor pieces. The service is excellent, and they are more than willing to offer advice to help customers achieve the perfect design. The only issue is that they are not always open for walk-in customers. You might have to book an appointment to get time in their showroom.

EWF Modern

1122 NW Glisan St, Portland – (503) 295-7336

EWF Modern is one of the top places to buy modern furniture in the city. They offer a range of high-quality pieces with an organic modern style, which means pieces with a more natural feel and an aim toward sustainability. EWF Modern also has great customer service with staff willing to help you find the right pieces for your home.

Furniture Plus

10246 NE Halsey St, Portland – (503) 256-9220

Furniture Plus offers pieces in various design styles, but they have a wide selection of attractive modern furniture. They can cover every room in the home, and they are one of the top places to consider if you are looking for modern furniture at a more affordable price. Furniture Plus is a locally owned business that focuses on providing a selection of American-made furniture.

Five Modern Home Architects In Portland

Thu, 12 May 2022 00:00:00 GMT

Beyond its diverse culture and spirit of innovation, Portland has a reputation as a healthy, forward-thinking city. People from all over the country move to Portland to join this exciting community. With so many people moving to Portland, we will need more homes. Modern design is a big part of building a home that fits Portland’s culture. Portlanders want homes with unique modern designs; they want sustainable homes that work well with the environment. The demand for modern home architects has never been higher.

With a culture that values modernity and sustainability, you can find some of Portland’s best modern home architects.

Here’s a list of five modern home architects in Portland. If you know of any others we should add please let us know in the comments.

William / Kaven

Partners Daniel Kaven and Trevor William Lewis founded their modern design studio in 2004. Their firm is known for innovative architecture and being at the leading edge of energy-efficient design. The pair’s work has won several awards for its designs and featured in top architectural publications across the country.

Skylab Architecture

Skylab Architecture is known for designing projects that work well for the human experience while also being environmentally friendly. They have a history with residential projects, but they also design commercial and public spaces. While Skylab Architecture has several notable projects in its portfolio, the Hoke House is probably their best-known design in Portland.

Waechter Architecture

Waechter Architecture is a leading design firm, and they have been a part of some of the most exciting building projects in the Pacific Northwest. With Waechter Architecture, you can expect high-concept designs that are visually compelling. One of their most iconic works is the Tower House in Willamette Heights.

DAO Architecture

DAO Architecture has a reputation for building highly functional, attractive, and innovative homes. They work with some of the latest concepts in architecture, interior design, and landscape design to create distinctive homes that work seamlessly from the interior to the exterior. While they have built several homes worthy of attention, the Irvington Residence offers a perfect example of the design style of DAO architecture.

Outside Architecture

You can also find smaller firms like Outside Architecture making their mark on architecture in Portland. Many of their homes offer a clean, minimalist look, and they do exceptional work when it comes to integrating structures with the natural environment. If you are looking for sustainability out of homes that leverage the beauty of outdoor spaces, this is one of the top firms in Portland.

What Defines Mid-Century Modern Architecture?

Tue, 15 Mar 2022 00:00:00 GMT

Many people believe mid-century modern architecture refers to the design styles popular at the current time. The truth is that modern architecture has been around for a long time. It first rose to prominence in the 1930s and remained popular until the 1970s. Most would consider its heyday to have been during the mid-20th century. This era is known as mid-century modern architecture.

What makes these mid-century modern homes so attractive? They have a unique look and feel while still in the modernist design style. The approach to design and building was very of the time, but they also have a minimalist design with a timeless appeal.

What is it about mid-century modern architecture that makes the homes compelling to people from all eras? We will look at some of the features that define mid-century modernist architecture.

Features Of Mid-Century Modern Architecture

Simplicity

Simplicity is a feature common throughout the entire age of modern architecture. The designs strive for maximum function with little embellishment or ornamentation, and you’ll find a lot of geometric shapes and simple color palettes. Compared to the elaborate designs styles that were popular during the previous century, the simplicity of modern design is notable.

Clean Lines

The clean lines of mid-century modern are another defining feature. The rooms are often simple geometric shapes, and you see a lot of straight lines and right angles. Flat roofs are another popular feature of this design style and are another way modern design leans into minimalism and functionality.

Connection With Nature

The home’s connection with nature and the landscape is another feature of mid-century modern architecture. The designers would often use natural color palettes and large windows to create a cleaner flow between the interior and exterior of the home. Many designers would also work to integrate the structure with the landscape for a property that looks more harmonious with nature.

Open Floor Plan

Open indoor spaces are another popular trait in modern architecture. The idea was to create a home with indoor spaces that flow well and work together. You might also find open spaces with split levels to divide the space. For example, you might have open space from a lounge area to a dining room with one or two stairs between the two areas.