With its eclectic, no-filler edit of new and vintage furniture, home décor and personal effects, Beam & Anchor in Portland, Ore. has become a destination for creative types in search of inspiration and interesting products.
Much of the selection is locally sourced but the merchandise isn’t all made in Portland. “More than anything, we’re looking for great design and a compelling narrative — something that strikes a chord, even if we’re not exactly sure why,” said co-founder Robert Rahm.
The store is housed in a converted 7,000-square-foot warehouse in industrial North Portland, with the store on the first floor and a studio upstairs. Co-founders and spouses Jocelyn and Robert Rahm had a shared vision and opened Beam & Anchor’s doors in April 2012 after spending the better part of a year renovating the 1924 building that it is housed in.
“We’re big fans of old warehouses, which is the predominant building structure in this part of town. We’re across the street from a train yard, and the views of the northwest hills are stunning,” Robert Rahm said.
Prior to opening Beam & Anchor, Jocelyn worked in education consulting and Robert was a therapist working with at-risk youth. This has led them to create a community-centric studio and retail environment that’s both warm and experiential.
“It’s important for us to have a very direct connection to the community, our customers, and the artisans who create the products we sell,” said Jocelyn Rahm. “Beyond being a destination for beautiful things, we want our customers to feel at home in our space.”