The historic Heathman Hotel in Portland, Oregon has announced that it will undergo renovations courtesy of Perkins + Will. First constructed in 1927, the hotel is expected to emerge from its update in June 2018 with a more contemporary aesthetic.
The Heathman’s robust history serves as the inspiration behind the redesign, which will pay homage to the property’s roots as a muse to a generation of guests. The lobby will be transformed into a curated living room appointed with sculptural features and cues for social engagement. A locally crafted 3D map of Portland’s unique city blocks will be installed behind the front desk to convey both a sense of intimacy as well as the city’s passion for craftsmanship. Architectural columns will serve as sculptural focal points standing among hundreds of floating black discs that symbolize the Portland Penny—a reference to the coin flip that decided the city’s precise location.
At the heart of the hotel is the two-story Tea Court, a modern reinterpretation of historic European salons. A warm, sophisticated palette will evoke residential qualities, complete with a bookshelf that accommodates the extensive onsite library. A dramatic floor-to-ceiling fireplace clad in white handcrafted artisan tiles will contrast pervasive wood paneling. Stained in modern gray, the fireplace will offset intricate wallpaper, herringbone wood floors, and leather seating.
Accommodations will draw inspiration from the Portland landscape with natural materials and reclaimed elements that promote comfort. A soft, neutral palette runs throughout the space with whitewashed wood-paneled walls and warm wood flooring. Blue area rugs, caramel-toned lounge chairs, gray bedside tables, and handblown glass credenzas will be featured along with artwork from locally based artists. Bathrooms will be equipped with glass-doored showers and stone vanities fixed upon limestone-tiled walls.
