Graphics Bring the City to Storyline

The recently completed Storyline apartments, with its 14 levels, has a gorgeous panoramic view of central Portland. With a dynamic downtown location to inspire the vibe, I was brought onto the project team to design the environmental graphics for the building’s many public spaces. The art direction: to bring in a Portland-specific story that unfolds as one passes from the lobby to the rooftop deck – where one can view each of the landmarks referenced in the graphics. From concept to seeing it come to life in the spaces, I thoroughly enjoyed every step of the creation and collaborations with the interior designers (Kelley Edwards, Courtney Laird) and architectural team (Michael Barrett, Manuel Roth).

The ever-present water element is featured in the leasing office, combining the textures of sparkling rain and the flowing Willamette river in a vibrant and uplifting way. Vinyl graphic.

Inspired by the Riverplace Marina on the waterfront, raised boat and dock elements mix with a die-cut clear vinyl and are installed on a chalk wall over the lobby’s beverage counter. The Marina is filled with restaurants and cafes, so the idea is to introduce a bit of that riverwalk feel while tenants grab a cup of coffee and lounge in the lobby.

The iconic Oaks Park was the muse for this abstract installation in the lobby seating area. The painted and stained wooden pieces are inspired by the shape of Ferris Wheel pods, and mix seamlessly with the planters.

It seemed only natural to bring in some of that alternative commuting feel into the fitness room with laser-cut bike elements atop a wraparound vinyl graphic.

The Oregon Museum of Science and Industry is the permanent home to the famed USS Blueback 581 submarine. An homage to this local point of interest, the vinyl artwork on two walls of the mailroom makes a bold statement from the elevator lobby area. Its palette and patterns tie in with the fabric used on the bench that sits in front of the elevator, so the eye can feel the continuity.

Floor numbers, visible as one walks out of the elevator, mix the shapes of three major Portland bridges: Tilikum Crossing, the Hawthorne and the Fremont. The lines in the design, slightly different for each number, integrate with many of the interior materials (wood canopies, carpeting patterns, signs). Die-cut clear vinyl.

A wraparound vinyl composite graphic, featuring the iconic Arlene Schnitzer Concert Hall sign, adds a touch of theatrical brightness to the rooftop common room and plays well with the visible skyline viewed through the windows.

Composite art inspired by Mount Hood and Adams brings these two major mountains closer than they appear from the rooftop deck. Die-cut metal.

The view overlook is where the story comes together. Each of the landmarks represented at Storyline is highlighted on the rooftop interpretive sign, directing visitors to their place in Portland. Acrylic and metal.