THE PEARL
Portlanders have long been known for superior quality in manufacturing and production of goods. This dedication to craftsmanship, along with a strong timber industry, made Portland a nationally recognized furniture production powerhouse in the early 20th century. Many of the Pearl District’s multi-story warehouses and commercial buildings that still exist today were built as a direct result of this furniture boom. However, as the railroad industry declined and the 50’s suburban rush began, the area shifted from a manufacturing hub, to a neglected, post-industrial afterthought.
THE COMEBACK
As we know, the Pearl District made a dramatic recovery and is recognized as a pillar of urban redevelopment worldwide. Those once dilapidated warehouses and commercial buildings now flourish as revitalized retail, restaurant, art, office, and housing projects. Oddly enough, the furniture industry has been curiously absent from the rebirth of the Pearl, until now! We are proud to announce that Design Within Reach will open their new flagship retail location in the newly renovated Stagecraft Building at NW 13th and Kearney this week!
THE FUTURE
The new Design Within Reach location is one of the largest leases in the Pearl within the last 5 years and represents a new opportunity for the Pearl’s retail offerings. “After the recession, a lot of furniture retailers either shuttered their doors or downsized dramatically. Now, with DWR making a big statement with this lease, there is an opportunity to bring in more furniture and soft goods retailers to the district,” says Urban Works Broker Dan Bozich, who helped Design Within Reach end a 2-year search for a new location. Bozich thinks the timing is perfect to bring in new tenants and expand the footprint of the Pearl. “Right now the big focus is within the Brewery Blocks and the great collection of restaurants and nightlife there; however, I think this new DWR flagship store will draw interest from more national retailers looking to make a mark in the Pearl.”
Urban Works Real Estate Brokers Dan Bozich and Kia Hartley were proud to represent Hoyt Building Investors LLC, who created an incredible opportunity for DWR in the historic Stagecraft Building.