The ft.² Report

source: BodyVox

Among the many lease transaction closing the second half of this year are two involving arts-based organizations making moves to new locations in the northwest area of Portland.

The first one is the well-known dance company BodyVox, who has settled into their new 11,000 square foot space located at 1201 NW 17th on the corner of NW Northrup.  The building was most recently home to Corberry Press and the TBA Festival.  It was selected for its clear sight line and open interior. The new center features a red brick exterior, tall slender windows and a ground floor presence for the dance company.  It will go through a multi-phase renovation plan, with the first phase completed and the other two scheduled for later.  The first round of renovations included filling in an old print well and refacing the lobby with recycled timers.  Upon total completion, the 102 year old facility will include a 160 seat theater, rehearsal studio, box office, education facility, administrative offices and storage for all of the very cool costumes and sets used in production.  Next time your in the Slabtown area of Northwest Portland, check them out.

source: Costar

The second arts organization to make a move is the Oregon Jewish Museum.  They have moved into a new 6,400 square foot space located at 1953 NW Kearney Street on the corner of NW 19th.  This building formerly housed a film distribution business. 

Previously, the museum spent nine years in an 1,800 square foot space at 310 NW Davis in Old Town.  This new location provides for considerably larger gallery space as well as closer proximity to local Jewish Congregation centers.

Renovations included accommodations for a large gallery, administrative offices, production area and conference rooms, storage and a 36-seat theater with expansion capabilities to hold 50. The theater is the former screening room of the film distribution company. The re-opening to the public is set for December 20th.

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