In a world where interior design studios often present a polished, fully-formed aesthetic from day one, Pat Austin, the acclaimed Portland-based firm, has taken a refreshingly unconventional path. Rather than rushing to a grand unveiling, founders Candace Cohu and Ally Hasche embarked on a three-year journey, allowing their Portland office to organically evolve. This deliberate, slower pace has cultivated a workspace that transcends the typical static showroom, becoming a living extension of their dynamic design process.
A Foundation Steeped in History
Nestled within Portland’s vibrant Central Eastside, the Pat Austin studio found its home in the venerable Historic Cully Building. Dating back to 1884, this architectural gem, with its striking exposed brick walls and robust heavy timber construction, immediately captivated Cohu and Hasche. The approximately 1,200-square-foot space offered a distinct warmth and character, a stark contrast to the more utilitarian warehouse options they had initially explored.
More Than Just an Office Space
“We were touring a lot of open warehouse-style spaces that were missing the warmth and character of our studio,” Cohu and Hasche recall. “We walked [into our current space], and it felt reminiscent of a Chicago or New York office. We loved the brick, the big windows, and the large oak tree.” These inherent architectural elements laid a rich framework, inviting the studio to grow and adapt over time.
The Philosophy of Fluid Design
The studio’s design philosophy is palpable throughout its layout. A spacious open workspace seamlessly integrates custom maple desks, a central conference table, and a comfortable, residential-style lounge area. A separate materials library offers a dedicated zone for focused, quieter work. Crucially, the designers resisted the urge to fill every nook and cranny instantly, instead allowing the office to mature in tandem with their burgeoning practice.
An Eclectic, Earth-Toned Sanctuary
“We’ve been very thoughtful about pacing out the process,” the duo shares. “Naturally we’re designers, which means we like to test different iterations of things, collect items, and take our time on decisions when we have that luxury.” This thoughtful approach manifests in white walls that serve as a serene backdrop for an ever-changing collection of vintage furniture, bespoke pieces, exquisite rugs, and compelling artwork. Earth-toned furnishings and a rich tapestry of natural materials—including wood, stone, and woven fibers—imbue the space with an inviting warmth, while rotating accessories ensure its aesthetic remains fluid and responsive.
“The space easily came together as a reflection of us, and our appreciation for eclecticism,” they affirm. “It feels fluid and able to evolve while also feeling artful and warm.” This evolution has been a continuous journey, with significant updates in late 2025 – including custom upholstery, elegant drapery, a sculptural pendant light, fresh paint, and an acoustically treated wall in the materials library – marking chapters rather than a final renovation.
From Studio to Lifestyle Brand: The Patty Collection
The residential inclination of the Pat Austin office fosters an environment of comfort and collaboration. “We’ve always wanted the office to feel more residential than commercial,” Cohu and Hasche state. Cozy seating encourages spontaneous conversations, and the kitchen acts as a daily hub for gathering, ensuring the spaces support both concentrated work and collaborative brainstorming without feeling overly structured.
This spirit of innovation extends beyond interior projects. The office also serves as the creative heart for Patty, a distinctive rug collection co-founded by Cohu, Hasche, and studio director Max Pluenneke. Drawing inspiration from travels through the South of France, Patty embodies the studio’s enduring passion for natural materials, earthy palettes, and artisanal craftsmanship. “Pat Austin and Patty work together in a very harmonious and symbiotic way,” the team explains. “Our knowledge of interior design influences how we approach rug design, but it has also opened up new ways of thinking.”
Nearly four years since its inception in the Historic Cully Building, Pat Austin’s office stands as a testament to the power of deliberate, evolving design. Rather than a singular, transformative overhaul, the space has been shaped by careful, considered additions, reflecting the designers’ profound belief that the most compelling interiors emerge over time, through iterative experimentation and thoughtful refinement. It’s a living, breathing portfolio that continually inspires both their team and their clientele.
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