Learning Opportunities

Randy & Val Hyde- Owner
Renaissance Rug Cleaning, Inc
www.renaissancerugportland.com

Randy & Val Hyde have over 35 years experience working with rugs. Renaissance Rug Cleaning specialises in the cleaning, repair, and restoration of Oriental rug , and area rugs. We run a dedicated 7,000 sq ft rug wash plant in SE Portland, designed for full-immersion hand-washing and hand rug repairs. Every rug is evaluated, dusted, washed, rinsed, and dried using methods tailored to fiber type and construction. Our goal is to preserve the integrity of each piece while delivering a thorough cleaning that meets collector, dealer, and designer expectations.

Kevin Atiyeh- Owner
Atiyeh Bros.
atiyehbros.com

After World War II, Atiyeh Bros. recognized the growing need for a dedicated rug and carpet cleaning operation. In 1949, they purchased undeveloped property on SE Division Street in Portland and built a facility specifically designed for rug cleaning—an innovative move for its time. Prior to that, cleaning had been a long, labor-intensive process done entirely by hand in the basement of their downtown store on SW 10th Avenue. Rugs were beater-vacuumed, scrubbed with soap paste, rinsed, squeegeed, and hung to air dry for days before being finished. The new SE Division facility transformed this process. In 1954, Atiyeh Bros. introduced the Pacific Northwest’s first Moores automatic rug washer, and by 1958, a two-story addition doubled the plant’s size. Constant improvements and forward-thinking investments kept the operation at the forefront of the industry. Edward Atiyeh oversaw the plant, while his brothers Richard and Victor guided carpeting and oriental rug sales. Together, they elevated both the cleaning service and the company’s reputation. That tradition of innovation continues today. The SE Division facility remains in operation, now equipped with modern advancements such as a state-of-the-art centrifuge for faster, more thorough water extraction, a wash tub system for deep cleaning, and a natural gas Hotsy pressure washer that combines efficiency with eco-friendly performance. In addition to cleaning, the facility provides expert rug repair, ensuring that every piece—whether a treasured heirloom or an everyday rug—is returned refreshed, vibrant, and ready to last for generations.