The clients came to us with their dream of opening a local gathering space on the NW Park Blocks which would integrate art, poetry and delicious food. We collaborated with them to create a warm, handcrafted space, playing with textures and fabrication techniques. The smooth walls are strikingly juxtaposed with the building's concrete pillars. Living copper accents abound in origami-like chairs and perforated pendant lights. The service counter is made from toasted bamboo and a custom design burned into white oak. Pendelton wool pillows lay about and hand-strung wooden geometric beads twinkle in the windows. The tables double as poetry shadow boxes made from cerused oak and steel. The "poetry wall" is designed in the spirit of Wailing Wall meets Shou-sugi-ban where you can tuck in a wish or some artwork.