The Arts and Crafts movement was an International Design trend, that originated in England in the 1880’s. The Arts and Crafts philosophy was derived in large measure from John Raskin’s Social Criticism, which related to the moral and social health of a Nation, to the qualities of it’s Architecture, and to the nature of its Art and Craftsmanship. He advocated for TRUTH to Material, Structure, Form and Function. Arts and Crafts ideals led the way into the initial decades of the Twentieth Century, influencing Architecture, Painting, Sculpture, and the Decorative Arts, including Furniture, Woodworking, Metalwork, Stained Glass and Ceramics. A fashion for all things hand made.

We shouldn’t wonder then, why, when the leaders of Lake Oswego, searching for ways to preserve and maintain a “Village” feel, would insist that new buildings in its Downtown District must adopt the “Lake Oswego Style.” The Arts and Crafts Style is one of the styles recommended. Our unwavering goal as a design team was to design the most beautiful, modern interpretation of an American Arts and Crafts Building. To achieve an exemplary building for this time and place. 

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—Gary Reddick, Architect