Portland's Pearl District - Renovating the District a Few Blocks at a Time

Named by the famous Thomas Augustine, who is synonymous with Augustine Gallery, this district was compared to a most precious find waiting to be unearthed from beneath the rubble of warehouses and abandoned industrial sites. Prior to his vision, the district was simply referred to as the Northwest Triangle. The Pearl District is bordered on the east by NW Broadway Avenue, on the south by West Burnside Street, on the west by the I-405, and on the north by the Williamette River. At this point in time the Pearl district is considered the most up and coming real estate market located right at the northern edge of the coveted downtown area. The attraction of being able to walk to work and frequent one of many eateries has lent a new charm to this district which in turn has many new residents flocking there.

The Pearl District used to be your typical downtown neighborhood - run down, devoid of charm and character, and more an area of flight than a move-in ready district. Yet over time the industrial feel is leaving the area and in its stead it is revealing some highly desirable housing and shopping. Developers have taken to renovating the district a few blocks at a time, following the old historical schemes and preserving the historic look and feel of structures that are still in good repair. Like many areas of downtown, the Pearl District is being rediscovered by those who cherish lofts, row houses, condos, and the arts and crafts community. As a matter of fact, small businesses have been at the forefront of the influx into this newly restored neighborhood, bringing with them jobs, ambience, and also the drive to see the whole area transformed.