Confidence and a sharp eye for eclectic design lead to a masterful transformation
7929 N Dana Ave. Portland, OR 97203
Photos: Pablo Enriquez
Styling: Kevin & Brandon
Today in the Studio
Built in 1900 and thoughtfully evolved across generations, this expansive North Portland home tells its story in layers. Original Craftsman character meets influences from the British Arts and Crafts movement, Japanese design, the optimism of the 1970s and a fabulously contemporary point of view. Rather than erase what came before, its current owners have carefully added to it, preserving original cabinetry and millwork while introducing rich color, vintage lighting and modern function. High ceilings and generous rooms allow the home to live large, while three porches open to an L-shaped garden with multiple spots to settle in, giving off a Sonoma-like vibe and an easy connection between indoors and out.
Over the past six years, Brandon and Kevin have shaped their property with equal parts preservation, experimentation and their own distinct style. We asked them about the inspirations behind their design choices, the projects they tackled themselves, summer mornings in the garden, winter nights by the fire and what they’ll miss most as their next chapter takes them to Brazil.
Q: What first drew you to property?
A: From the moment we pulled off the Willamette Bluff, driving along Columbia Park and down tree lined Dana Avenue, we were drawn to the area's slower pace and natural tranquility. Entering this oversized 'Old Portland' home, we were pulled in by its ideal flow, historic details, and connection with the outdoors. Past the years of renovations, we were assured by sturdy bones, well-cared for by generations of the same family. And we were drawn to the park just steps from our front door, and to the new energy of this classic Portland neighborhood.
Q: From the beginning, what was your vision for the home? Were there any particular design sources of inspiration?
A: We wanted to pay tribute to the layers brought with every generation that shaped the house: 1900, when the house was built in the Craftsman style, the 1970s, and today. Instead of looking at expected craftsman references, we looked to the original inspiration for architects of the time. The great British Arts and Crafts houses like the Red House and Blackwell. And Japanese design vernacular—ebonized floors, simple woodblock patterns, and rice paper lanterns. We acknowledged the 1970s through our lighting and furniture, the green main floor bathroom fixtures, and the preserved fireplace silhouettes. And for today, we bring in contemporary design references and modern function.
Built in
1900
Q: You thoughtfully chipped away at the house over time. Can you share a little about that process and how your vision evolved as you lived here?
A: Instead of a scorched earth approach, we were mindful about what to keep, preserving old cabinetry and harmonizing mismatched wood floors. In some instances, we added traditional elements that spoke to the past—wood paneling, historic millwork, and a British-inspired color palette. In other instances, we added vintage elements like the living room's space age chandeliers. And in some cases we added things that felt utterly contemporary, like the wooden kitchen island. Together, the house blurs the lines between new and old while feeling casual and cohesive.
Q: You completed the majority of your beautiful updates yourselves, looking back, what project are you most proud of, and what made it so meaningful?
A: For us, the main floor bathroom — the first project — felt most meaningful. It was our proof of concept and Kevin's first expression as an Interior Designer. It taught us what the house needed. When we first moved in, everyone loved this bathroom. Brimming with the optimism of the 1970s, matching green fixtures brought a vibrancy to the house. But after decades of use, the space demanded an update. Instead of gutting the room, we color matched the existing green tub and toilet with zellige tile and a custom enamel pedestal sink — with the added benefit of opening up the space. The Japanese spirit emerged through wrought iron light fixtures and Sandberg woodblock wallpaper. Painted wood wainscoting brought a craftsman sentiment. The traditional basket weave tile pattern embraced a contemporary black finish, complemented with modern black plumbing fixtures, hand-plastered storage, and ceiling-track shower curtain.
Q: Brandon, walk us through your perfect summer day at the house.
A: Every Summer morning we swing open the doors to the garden, letting the breeze flow between the kitchen and living room. We wander along the garden trails, picking fresh herbs for a light breakfast among the hibiscus blooms of the back porch. Then we embrace the spoils of park life, greeting neighbors on long walks, playing Pickleball at the tennis courts, and enjoying community celebrations.
Q: Kevin, what does your ideal winter day at home look like?
A: On cold winter mornings, we wake up the house. We open all the curtains, brew espresso in the pantry, and start a fire in the living room as we ease into the day playing piano. On cold winter nights we do lamp o'clock, we set a fire in the fireplaces, draw all the curtains, turn on all the lamps, crank up the music, and have friends for pool in the game room while sipping Martinez's — the house's signature cocktail. And on quiet nights, we'll stew a large pot of lemony shrimp and beans before heading upstairs to the snug for a cozy movie by our third fireplace.
Q: This home feels made for gathering. How have you used the house and especially the yard and gardens to entertain? Are there any memorable celebrations that stand out?
A: The house easily accommodates large dinners and garden parties. With doors on all sides of the house, friends circulate from the kitchen to the side porch, spilling out to the garden patios, all the way around to the living room porch. With a guest room and ensuite bathroom on the main floor, hosting friends from out of town (or across town) is effortless and non-invasive. With a separate sleeping floor, everyone gets their privacy. In the morning, we can have coffee without disturbing anyone by closing the living room glass doors. We even host small wellness mornings with a light workout in the basement gym and run around the park's loop trail and along the bluff overlooking the city.
Q: You’re moving on to Brazil, what do you think you’ll miss most about the house and neighborhood?
A: We'll miss the rhythm of the house and surrounding neighborhood. The garden's bountiful Spring blooms and Fall's colorful leafy display. We'll miss the sweet perfume of the park's massive linden trees. We'll miss Lombardo's Jersey Style pizza. The Azteca special from Burrito Azteca. The coffee to wine scene at Living Room Cafe. We'll miss quick trips to the Central Eastside and Downtown via the little known Greeley bypass. And sunset drives home along Willamette Blvd, looking across the river to downtown. We'll miss a house that lives large. A place that even embraces the in-between spaces, made tranquil with a soft, muted color palette, reminding you to just breathe.
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