Street of Eames

If you love modern architecture and design as much as I do, you already know about the powerful work of Charles and Ray Eames, the husband-wife team that did so much to promote an ethic of humanistic modernism in the middle of the 20th Century. Known for their groundbreaking work in furniture design, architecture, industrial design and photographic arts, they were at the epicenter of the post-war changes that were taking place in this country.

And now a new Portland home tour, cleverly named Street of Eames, is featuring tours of six mid-century and contemporary modern homes on Saturday, April 14. Four of the the six homes are occupied by their architects and designers, so this is truly a rare opportunity to see some very personal statements by leading local professionals. And the best part is that the event is raising money for Project Returns SOARING program that seeks to maintain an after school program for homeless and low-income children.

BTW, tickets go on sale in mid-February and they sell out quickly, so get your name on their e-mail list on the website to get updates and a reminder when tickets are available. Additionally, there is an event featuring the Eames film legacy on Feb. 22 at Design Within Reach that also benefits the Project Returns program and provides a rare opportunity to see their films, many of which are out of print.

Details: Street of Eames Home Tour. Sat., April 14. For ticket information, send a blank e-mail with "tickets" in the subject line to tickets@streetofeames.org.

Eames Film Festival at Design Within Reach. 6:30-8:30 pm, Thurs., Feb. 22. $5 donation suggested. Design Within Reach, 1200 NW Everett. Phone 503-220-0200.