NEWS ARCHIVE
Oregonian, December 19, 2002
MARSHALL-WELLS LOFTS BIG PART OF PEARL DISTRICT RENAISSANCE
by
Phil Favorite
Folks who've commuted through Northwest Portland the past few years have witnessed the transformation of the Pearl District. What was once a collection of run-down warehouses has been converted into the city's most talked-about neighborhoods.
"It seemed to go up overnight, but it's been 20 years in the planning," said Chris Caffee, who is leading sales efforts at the newly renovated Marshall-Wells Lofts.
With retail space on the street level, the eight-floor building features 164 living spaces in a wide range of sizes and prices. The living units encircle an open-air atrium at the center of the building. The living spaces come in four main styles: two-bedroom units with outside balconies; two-level townhouse units; smaller, one-level courtyard units priced as low as $183,810; and higher-end two-level penthouse units, which range up to $786,600.
"It's a nice mix," said Caffee. "We've had several first-time buyers and several who have bought the most expensive units."
According to Caffee, the task for the developer was to keep a level of quality consistent throughout the building while maintaining some of the historic flair that makes Marshall-Wells lofts unique.
All of the furnished units feature custom kitchens, and buyers are able to choose materials for their kitchens and baths.
Expansive wood windows capture the old-time feel of the units and offer views to all points of the compass.
Located near the downtown streetcar line, the project offers easy access to the amenities of the Pearl District, Northwest Portland and downtown.
"We have a handful of buyers who won't even have a car," Caffee said.