Insights and Inspiration from the WDP Studio
Seat Count vs. Revenue: The Layout Decisions That Shape Restaurant Performance
A strong seating plan is not a grid. It is a portfolio. This post breaks down how seat variety, hierarchy, and flow can improve dining room performance over time, helping restaurants balance energy, comfort, and operational ease without defaulting to a cafeteria plan.
Before You Sign a Restaurant Lease: The 12 Questions Smart Operators Ask
“Restaurant-ready” is rarely a promise—it’s a starting point. These 12 questions are designed for experienced restaurateurs, café owners, and bar teams to surface hidden constraints, protect leverage, and avoid the preventable delays that cost months in a Portland build-out.
When Clients Go Smaller, the Work Gets More Complex
More commercial clients are choosing a smaller footprint—often to manage overhead, sometimes because a move is happening anyway. The surprise is that smaller doesn’t automatically make a project simpler. It often makes it less forgiving. In this article, Arielle shares a practical lens for planning boutique commercial interiors—Flow, Feel, and Friction—so the space works hard, communicates clearly, and avoids expensive surprises.
News from the Studio
Our first newsletter of 2026 is here. We’re sharing a warm studio update, a reflection on longevity, a look at our work on the Oaks Park Dance Pavilion, current and upcoming gallery shows, and a design fun fact about why pillows matter more than you think.
Why Commercial Office Lobbies Matter More Than Ever
Commercial office lobby design directly impacts tenant perception and leasing performance. This article breaks down the elements that help shared spaces feel intentional, current, and inviting.
Weedman Design Partners Recognized Among Portland’s Top Interior Designers
We’re honored to be included in a recent Decorilla feature highlighting top interior designers in Portland. The recognition reflects more than two decades of work designing thoughtful, functional commercial and residential spaces across the Pacific Northwest. We’re grateful to be recognized alongside other talented studios shaping the region’s built environment.
News from the Studio
What makes a space feel welcoming? In our December newsletter, we explore hospitality as a way of thinking about design — from the moment of arrival to the details that invite people to stay a little longer.
News from the Studio
This month, we’re talking about why some spaces instantly feel right. From flexible layouts that adapt to how we live and work, to the subtle role lighting plays in emotion and connection — our October newsletter explores design that goes beyond the surface.
It’s a reflection on intuition, art, and the details that make a space truly human.
Sunset Lake Project: From “Just New Furniture” to a Complete Transformation
We first met the Sunset Lake homeowners when they asked for new furniture. After a candid walk-through, we redirected the project to solve orientation, flow, and light. The result is a modern lakefront home that feels larger, calmer, and easier to live in, featured by The Wall Street Journal.
The Future of Office Lobbies: Designing Welcoming, Identity-Rich Entry Spaces
Discover how to transform your office lobby into a welcoming, functional space — even without a receptionist. Design tips, real-world insights, and best practices from a commercial interior designer.
The Most Expensive Office Design Can't Buy What Your Team Really Needs to Excel
Here's the truth that might surprise you: once you've created a workplace that's safe, comfortable, community-oriented, and professionally inspiring, self-actualization comes down to something more fundamental…
RTO: Let’s get out of the sweatpants mindset
When was the last time you felt truly proud of your workspace? Your employees are asking themselves the same question every day.
When we map Maslow's hierarchy to workplace design, we often overlook how deeply our surroundings influence our sense of self-worth. A polished, professional environment doesn't just look good—it fundamentally shapes how employees view themselves and their work.
RTO: Fostering Real Connection in Workplace Design
Why do some offices buzz with energy while others feel like ghost towns? The answer isn't in your amenities—it’s in understanding the third level of Maslow's hierarchy.
RTO Basics: The Simplest Design Solutions to Encourage Employees to Show Up
Before you invest in that fancy espresso bar or game room for your office, let's talk about why your employees might not even show up to use them.
The Great Return - Rethinking Workplace Magnetism
The return-to-office debate continues to dominate C-suite discussions, but perhaps we’re asking the wrong question. Instead of "How do we get people back?", the better question is: "How do we create spaces people are drawn to?"
Finding Your Place in Portland: Redesigning Life in the Heart of the Pacific Northwest
For over 20 years, our design firm, Weedman Design Partners, has helped individuals and families transition to this vibrant city by creating spaces that feel both grounded and inspired. As native Portlanders and a husband-and-wife team, we understand the city's unique culture and how to design homes that reflect the lifestyle it fosters.
The Power of Branded Environments in Commercial Interior Design
At Weedman Design Partners, we view branded environments as more than just the look of a space. They are immersive experiences—designed to communicate your company’s identity. Whether it’s a retail store, office, or restaurant, the spaces we create serve as a reflection of your brand, shaping every interaction and leaving a lasting impression on clients, customers, and employees.
Bringing a Shared Dream to Life: Our Gallery Space in Portland
When Travis and I purchased our design studio building, we discovered something extraordinary—a gallery space waiting to be brought to life.
The Modern Office: Designing Spaces for Connection, Well-being, and Productivity
In a world where hybrid work has become the norm, many business leaders question the future of the traditional office. Do we still need a dedicated workspace, or can we rely entirely on remote setups? The answer lies not just in productivity, but in human connection, well-being, and inspiration.
Why Waking Up in a Home That Reflects Your Personal Aspirations and Goals is Life-Changing
At Weedman Design Partners, we believe that your home is more than just a place to live. It is a reflection of your dreams, aspirations, and the life you wish to lead. Waking up in a home that embodies your personal goals can be a transformative experience, setting the tone for a fulfilling and inspired day. In this blog post, we explore why this is life-changing and how our bespoke design process ensures your home is a true reflection of your aspirations.