Go Northwest this Summer for Portland's Treasures

Cielo, Hive, and Moule boast vibrant and livable colors in Portland

In the mood for a little North by Northwest? Consider heading to Portland, Oregon where there’s no shortage of eye-popping color and high aesthetics. The City of Roses is coming up colorfully through its bustling metropolis of diverse neighborhoods. Renewal has been hot in Portland for so long that it’s practically synonymous with the city's name.

Rocket building 

The Pearl District is often likened to New York’s SoHo and is spotted with quaint cafés, converted LEED-certified housing, and spectacular examples of fashion and design. Pictured above is the Rocket buildingwhich stands out for it's sliding art panels and for being LEED Platinum certified.  When it comes to the shopping, there are a few not to miss: Cielo (18th and 19th century furnishings), Hive (ultra-contemporary design similar to Moss in New York), and Moulé (fashion & housewares).

The noteworthy NW23rd area is essentially a 10-block run of funky clothing-design shops—Galore, Idom—and some of the best bubble tea (Fat Straw). Mississippi is perhaps the latest strip to see revitalization, and it comes in the form of Meadow, a lovely salt shop (yes, salt), Flutter (gorgeous papers, knickknacks & vintage items), and Black Wagon (adorable toddler togs). Go to Sunlan to score a rare light bulb, or the Rebuilding Center for a vintage bathtub. Elsewhere, Canoe and Portland Modern are two worthwhile stops for contemporary and mid-century modern design, respectively. And sprinkled throughout are craftsman bungalows, foursquare cottages, and ground-up buildings with vibrantly painted exteriors, all seeming to say “Welcome to Portland!”