Oaks Park Dance Pavilion

When Oaks Park invited us to guide the Dance Pavilion into its next chapter, we approached the work as stewardship. Built in 1905 and restored in 2025, the Pavilion is a Portland landmark and a beloved event venue where generations of celebrations have unfolded.

The design intention was to reveal what was already there. We removed a dated drop ceiling to reintroduce the original wood ceiling and beams, bringing back the volume, warmth, and craftsmanship that had been hidden for years. We preserved historic features that carry the building’s identity, including the windows and the signature flooring with dancehall markings, so the Pavilion’s story remains visible and felt.

At the same time, the space needed to function better for modern events. We introduced a covered front porch entry to create a welcoming sense of arrival, upgraded the restrooms and commissary kitchen, and improved accessibility with a new front ramp. Updated lighting and infrastructure support the Pavilion’s role as a flexible, hardworking venue for weddings, corporate gatherings, fundraisers, and community celebrations.

What we did: We served as the interior design team and oversaw the renovation in close collaboration with the structural and construction teams, guiding the Dance Pavilion into a new era while protecting what makes it historic. This project reflects our broader work in hospitality and event space interior design across Portland and the surrounding metro area.