THE SHAW HOUSE I

Location: Lake Oswego, Oregon
Joelle Nesen, Principal Designer
Emma Davis, Morgan Thomas, Margaret Mathes, Senior Designers
Architecture: Keith Abel
Photography: David Papazian

A classic mid-century residence, designed by noted Oregon architect John Yeon, was rescued from demolition and transformed--on a tight budget and timeline--into the centerpiece of a showhouse fundraiser overlooking Portland, Oregon. Known as The Shaw House, it occupies a prominent hilltop with emerald views, and was featured on the cover of House Beautiful in 1953 as "How You Will Live in the Next America." Not a period restoration but a rejuvenation with a timeless mix of styles that rest side-by-side, showing off their sleek silhouettes in the light of the abundant windows. Unexpected choices keep the mood light and collected, not mod or anachronistic, with each ingredient chosen for its design merit, not its date.

(For exterior views and pool house see The Shaw House II)