Located in the heart of Portland’s cultural district, the historic Heathman Hotel has been thoughtfully refreshed, with all 151 guestrooms and public spaces updated to a contemporary aesthetic. Originally opened in 1927, the luxury property’s renovations are led by designer Jackie McGee and the Perkins + Will creative team. McGee, who studied Theatre and Film Design at London’s Central School of Art and Design, has introduced several key changes—most notably a reimagined two-story Tea Court. Now styled as a modern take on classic European salons, the Tea Court hosts literary events and a weekend Russian Tea service created by Headwaters’ executive chef Vitaly Paley.
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The redesign draws inspiration from the hotel’s close relationship with the adjacent Arlene Schnitzer Concert Hall, home to the Oregon Symphony Orchestra. That cultural connection is echoed throughout the property—in a large, curated bookcase, in original artworks, and in thoughtful architectural details. A floor-to-ceiling fireplace faced with handcrafted tiles provides a warm focal point, while select walls are papered in William Morris designs to add texture and historic charm.
Guestrooms showcase carefully chosen books sourced from Portland’s celebrated Powell’s bookstore, inviting guests to relax with local reading material. Natural materials play a major role in the new aesthetic: wood-paneled walls and wood floors create a warm backdrop, while hand-blown glass credenzas and floating wooden shelves in the bathrooms contribute to a layered, tactile feel. Showers are enclosed with clear glass doors to maintain openness and light.
The hotel’s art program highlights works by regional artists, including “Rose City” by Katie Jeanne Reim, “St. John’s Bridge” by Barry D. Kaine, “Sellwood” by Tony Thomas, “Dimension 9” by Hilary Winfield, and “Poppies” by Rachel Ann Austin. Together with the updated furnishings and finishes, these pieces reinforce the Heathman’s identity as a cultural hub. Renovation work is expected to be completed in June of this year.