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Our Story

Revitalizing our historic downtown

Bell Sister Flats was designed by co-owner and architect, Paul Bentley, who has occupied the ground floor of the Bell Sisters building from 1997-2023. The ground floor is now leased out to The Lazer Studio Fine Home Décor and Gifts. Paul and his wife Terry Bentley are both Roseburg locals and hope to bring downtown back to the vibrant and bustling area that they remember as kids.

Picture of the owners standing in the kitchen of the flat

Our Building & Bell Sister Flats

Located in the heart of downtown Roseburg, the Historic Bell Sister Hat and Dress Shoppe, now known as Bell Sister Flats and Paul L. Bentley, Architect's practice. Built in 1909 by sisters, Minnie and Mineta Bell. This building has been home to a variety of businesses, such as a Sunrise Gift Shop, T-Shirt Shop, and Dental practice on the second floor. Paul L. Bentley, Architect acquired the building in 2000 and has been home to his practice since that time.

The second floor has not been occupied since the 1950’s. It was formerly a dental practice to Dr. Richard Brumfield from approximately 1918 to 1921. Apparently, Dr. Brumfield was quite the character and became the center figure in a Historic Murder Mystery. The story includes the FBI, Canada and a rather larger insurance policy. For more details, the story as per the Douglas County Museum is available in the flats.

Bell Sister Flats was inspired by our travels both within the U.S. and abroad. We recognize that the Umpqua Valley has so much to offer visitors, from the beautiful pristine North Umpqua River for hiking, biking, fishing, swimming, and picnics. This region is best known for the bounty and power of its rivers, where steelhead, other wildlife, and waterfalls abound. The Umqpua Valley is also home to award winning wineries and brew pubs to tour and visit.

We wanted to keep the architectural detailing of the building while updating with modern conveniences. We hope you enjoy the peaceful and serene space we created.