Lumber Room

The Lumber Room is an art exhibition space that is open to the public only rarely. It is essentially a private museum of the most contemporary art.
It is in the Pearl District, but its roots go back to when the neighborhood was anything but Pearly. (The grit created the Pearl? — See
) It was the home of Ed Cauduro, contemporary art collector and private philanthropist. When he passed away it was purchased by one of the few serious contemporary art collectors today in Portland. Downstairs is the Elizabeth Leach Gallery. Up a turning maple staircase is the stunning minimal space with two hidden verandas. It was designed by Randy Higgins and Felt Hat.
While the space is home to many private art functions, it sometimes opens its doors to the public. You can hear of those events through the Lumber Room website or by their Facebook. When it is open, it’s usually staffed by artists or curators, or it’s filled with art world people who can talk knowledgeably about the work.
At the time of this writing, there is a show of regional women artists, curated by the gallery director at Reed College. Worth seeing. Check the website for the very limited hours.
The Lumber Room is a place to see, if the occasional schedule of public events aligns with yours, museum quality contemporary art in an intimate and striking architectural space.