THE SCRAPE - ISSUE 1

The Urbanite with Raquel Coyote - By Rainezra

Urbanite is a unique lifestyle store that is a one-of-a-kind attraction in the central Portland area founded by Raquel Coyote and built from the ground up. After being open for the last seven years, they have been able to "create spaces for makers and shows—for people who build and restructure and re-purpose and do jewelry and wood/steel working. We have a fine art gallery and Markets—it's a whole lot more than anybody does anywhere else!" 

Raquel has degrees in architecture, structural engineering, and two fine art degrees and found a passion for creating an avenue for artists she had met who had no outlet for selling their unique crafts. "These are amazing artists—people with great talents, people who were repurposing, salvaging and doing an amazing job with things that didn't have a home in any other kind of store."

Urbanite has developed and created a community that has shown off over 500 local businesses throughout in Markets events and the store by providing opportunities and motivation to local businesses and artists to elevate and pursue their individual careers and projects. You can find Urbanite hosting many markets in their parking lot space, and they have been one of the only markets able to pay their vendors every time as well as working with, and connecting so many amazing local businesses.

Urbanite is now inspiring new lifestyle, stores and places, such as New York, LA and San Francisco that are building similar connections in other communities. Overall, Raquel has spent so much time and energy and money into creating a beautiful space and project that goes beyond the location itself. It's truly a one-of- a-kind place that is worth your next visit in Portland, Oregon.