At the height of the pandemic, Casework’s founder Casey Keasler and Kate’s founder Katelyn Williams were the only two coming into the Casework studio. Kate’s Ice Cream kitchen was across the courtyard and she needed a desk and a quiet place to work. Quickly they developed a socially distanced friendship. When Katelyn started seeking permanent retail space for her growing plant-based, gluten-free ice cream business, Casey tagged along, offering design insights and observations. Once Katelyn selected Kate’s permanent home—a storefront on N. Mississippi Avenue—Casework was called on to design the inviting, pastel-colored oasis. Originally home to Ruby Jewel Ice Cream, the shop already included a full kitchen and ample room for their vision.
Keywords
optimistic
vibrant
plant-based
Initial designs started in the Summer 2021, a time when the world needed an extra dose of optimism and joy, and that’s exactly what Casework brought. Washed in soft, candy-colored hues, guests enter the ice cream shop to a bright ombre counter. Tiled with layers of peachy pinks and sorbet-inspired selections from Fireclay Tile, the curved bar is a contemporary spin on traditional ice cream parlor dipping cabinets. The custom counter was designed by Casework and installed by Katelyn and her mom, who flew from Louisiana to Portland to help with the project.
The shop also includes work from local designers and artists to complement the local ingredients in Kate’s signature concoctions. Along the back wall, a pastel mural by Lynzee Lynx, a local artist, and friend of Kaitlyn’s, brings vibrancy and dimension to the minimalist space. White oak furniture, custom designed by Casework and Jamison Sellers of local furniture brand Bolster Furniture, also offers an inviting place for dining and congregating.
What started as a socially distanced friendship-turned-design partnership resulted in a contemporary watering hole for Portland’s vegan dessert lovers. Kate’s Ice Cream is a community effort for locals to enjoy.
Credits
Thank you to Katelyn Williams, founder of Kate’s Ice Cream for being a pandemic partner and collaborating during such a strange time.
Thank you to the Casework design team; Jordan Allen, Marla Kabashima and Casey Keasler, for the dedication it takes to make a project come to life.
Ben Carr of All Hands Architecture - architect of record
Photos by Audra Rhodes
You can get your own scoops or pints at 3713 N Mississippi Ave, Portland, OR 97227 or Kate’s Ice Cream for delivery outside of Portland.
MORE like this. . .
Check out some of our other projects below
A collaborative, community-driven creative space that was first and foremost inspired by the warmth and comforts of home.
This Italian eatery had good bones - high ceilings, an open kitchen, gorgeous natural light, and most importantly, delicious handmade pasta.
A place to grow old and feel forever young resulted in a power clash-feminine with an edge, some surprises and delights in the details.
looking for something different?
Check out some of our other types of projects here!