Tucked into the second floor of a 1920s building in Portland’s vibrant arts district, this commercial gallery space for lumber room—a female-owned art gallery—serves as both an immersive, by-appointment-only exhibition space and a private artist residency. The vision, led by design studio Osmose, called for a full vibe reset: elevated finishes, layered materials, and an intentional blurring of boundaries between gallery and home. With a fixed gallery opening date, the project demanded precision, creativity, and collaboration from day one.

The scope included extensive demolition and upgrades to lighting and finishes throughout the space, along with custom paneling and cabinetry that honored the original architecture while pushing it toward a new era. Custom elements designed by Osmose included fabric-wrapped headboards, built-in nightstands, and a multi-use theatre lounge that doubled as a screening room and chill zone. From kitchen to lounge, open corner shelving provided both functionality and curatorial opportunity, reinforcing the hybrid nature of the space.

A standout feature is the custom entry door—a sculptural centerpiece crafted from 3.25” x 3.25” end-grain fir blocks with bespoke hardware and integrated artist panels by LB Buchan. Measuring approximately 12 feet tall by 5 feet wide in total, the door is composed of two upper panels (each 3 feet tall by 2.5 feet wide) and two lower panels (each 9 feet tall by 2.5 feet wide). This technically ambitious assembly was brought to life by the expert craftsmanship of Owen Gabbert’s lead carpenter, Levon Cullen.

Throughout the space, warm natural fir tones unify the millwork and built-ins, while concealed lighting and a dramatic kitchen chandelier add ambient glow and visual rhythm. Temporary built-in art walls were installed for early exhibitions and later removed without a trace, leaving the permanent finishes untouched.

Design decisions evolved in real time, and the process relied on close, ongoing collaboration between the construction and design teams. From high-touch material transitions to sequencing around custom fabrications, this was a build that demanded—and delivered—craftsmanship at every level. The result is a deeply considered, one-of-a-kind space that celebrates art and hospitality in equal measure. It’s a project the team is incredibly proud of—and one that raises the bar for what gallery spaces can be.