Old houses are known for causing trouble—floors dip, walls crack, closets cram and kitchen appliances outlive their purpose. Houses built a hundred years ago were made for another lifestyle and, often, have had owners whose design decisions are unlivable by today’s standards. Despite the problems that come with owning historic homes, the demand for them is strong “because they have a heart and soul,” says Melody Emerick, a Portland architect who frequently works on historic homes. In the following pages, we profile three homeowners who have revamped these homes to better suit their needs while preserving that heart and soul.

Ever wish you could look inside everyone’s bathroom for inspiring ideas for your own remodel? We do, and we did. In this piece, we look into four distinct styles of bathrooms, from a simple powder room to a complete bathroom overhaul, all cleverly designed in their own way. Peek into the creative ideas behind a Craftsman in southeast Portland, a custom beach house in Neskowin, a lodge-style home in Bend and a contemporary abode in Lebanon, Oregon.

When Greg and Lisa Waggoner began plans to remodel their house, they knew they wanted their home to be a harmonious blend between rustic country style and industrial modern chic. Greg had worked for years as a graphic designer at a manufacturing company, and Lisa had an interior design degree from Marylhurst University—relevant backgrounds to make it happen.

In a world overrun by expendable, mass-produced tables and chairs, a piece of handcrafted furniture offers an enduring experience and the opportunity to buy locally and sustainably. Here in Oregon, a cult of ambitious, talented craftsmen offer a range of designs that look like art, act like furniture and stand up admirably to time. We share the varied work of three extraordinary furniture-makers.

As the days lengthen and the temperatures warm, there’s nothing nicer than getting home and kicking back in your outdoor room. Whether you have $500, $5,000 or $30,000, you can create a summertime oasis in your backyard.