A heartfelt congratulations to my longtime client, Dennis, on the purchase of your new Alameda neighborhood home. This isn’t an easy market for buyers, but you hung in there and found this beautifully restored Mid-Century Modern home, in a perfect and convenient location for someone who is downsizing. I’m looking forward to seeing the personal touches that you will add to this beautiful home and I wish you many happy years here!
Hi Readers!
Raise your hand if you’re a fan of mid-century modern #mcm. 👋
Andrew and Ellie are super great people who happen to also be super stylish and into the clean lines and open spaces mid-century design presents. They were renting in the Pearl and COVID helped them change their perspective on what they wanted and needed, especially since they were running their respective businesses out o
f their home. We’d talked about them taking on a rehab project, but they were waiting to find the right one. Enter this beauty. If you’ve been out to Pickathon or Pendarvis Farms in Happy Valley, chances are you’ve driven by.
We walked in, and they
looked at me and said, “GAB. We have to have this house.” It was go time. We were one of the first groups through and were able to submit the offer first, because we were ready. Their pre-approval was in place, with strong financial terms and buyer conditions that made their offer super strong. We had to wait through a weekend with more than 80 groups
through only to learn the seller was ready to accept their offer from day one — we knocked it out of the park. YES! They’ve got plans in place to turn this into a modern masterpiece, and I can’t wait to see what they do with it. It’s already so. damned. cool. This one was definitely a highlight for me in the month of September. Congratulations, you two!
If you have post and beam dreams, I do too. Let’s compare notes and see what we can make happen for you! #callgab.
Till then, high fives!
One of the best parts of my job is uncovering hidden gems in Portland and the surrounding area. My clients just closed on this cedar mid-century mod beauty with cabin vibes in Oregon City. The impressive home features wood beams, tall natural-wood ceilings and a gorgeous stone fireplace. And to top it off, an unbeatable location amongst magnificent Pacific Northwest greenery. Let me help you discover your own hidden oasis!
Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, most traditional in-person home tours have been canceled or postponed. However, the changing times have allowed for innovative virtual 3D tours of historic mid-century homes and they’re happening all over the country. Here is a list of tours that I personally enjoy!
First and foremost, some noteworthy tours hosted right here in Portland by Restore Oregon, a local preservation organization. They were founded in 1977 as the Historic Preservation League of Oregon. Restore Oregon takes care of places that make Oregon special—churches, historic homes, neighborhoods, and much more. From now until July 26th, they are virtually hosting their 10th annual Mid-Century Modern Design Series, which is their largest educational and fundraising event of the year.
Tickets are $50 and can be bought here through July. The ticket grants access to a 360° Virtual Home Tour of the Pacific Northwest’s three most celebrated mid-century homes. These iconic homes include:
The virtual tour starts off with the revolutionary Sutor House, which is one of the most iconic examples of the developing Northwest Regional Modernism Style. It was designed by renowned architect Pietro Belluschi, the leader of the Modern Movement in architecture. Built-in 1938, it is located in Portland’s Southwest Hills on Skyline Blvd. Key features include curved zebrawood walls, natural materials, abundant light, and fine craftsmanship; all elements that have made Belluschi so renowned. Remarkably, each owner of the home has kept the house as original as possible out of respect and in homage to Belluschi.
The monumental Watzek House is the second house on the virtual tour. It was designed in 1937 by Portland architect John Yeon, one of the early practitioners of the Northwest Regional style of Modernism. Located in the Southwest Portland hills, it has stunning views of Mt. St. Helens, Mt. Hood, and the Tualatin Valley. The house perfectly blends into the surrounding landscape, which was strategically planned by Yeon. The house instantly became an icon of the Modernist movement. Today the Watzek House is managed by the University of Oregon’s John Yeon Center for Architecture and the Landscape.
Next, is the Copenhagen House which was designed by Portland architect, Walter Gordon, in 1953. Located in Lake Oswego, it is another great example of the Northwest Regional style. The house has all the standard mid-century modern characteristics such as an open floor plan, floor-to-ceiling windows, and an extension of outdoor space. A feeling of privacy and seclusion was retained despite having close neighbors, which is created by careful landscaping.
To learn more about this tour, click here.
If you are interested in free virtual 360 degree home tours, there are a few that are being offered by the Frank Lloyd Wright Foundation. The foundation was established in 1940 by well-known modern architect Frank Lloyd Wright and is committed to the preservation and stewardship of Wright works and collections.
You can check out their Wingspread building, located in Racine, Wisconsin, which was once the home of Herbert Fisk Johnson, Jr. of SC Johnson. They host private events and conferences, and as of 2018, offer space to businesses and organizations for their meetings and retreats. The virtual tour features the Wingspread Great Hall and gives viewers an opportunity to learn and appreciate the iconic design and history of this 14,000-foot building.
To view their virtual tour, click here.
Taliesin West is the first Frank Lloyd Wright property that was made available online for free using the new 3D immersive technology. Located in Scottsdale, AZ, it is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a National Historic Landmark. Blending in with the desert, it was built and maintained by Wright himself and his team. In this virtual tour, you can wander the living room and the hallways that are filled with structural desert masonry or go to the bridge to view the desert landscape.
To check it out, click here.
Whether you are interested in learning about architecture or just looking for inspiration for your own home, don’t miss out on these unique 3D virtual opportunities!
The health and safety of our community is our top priority.
Due to current health policies, we will be offering a hand washing station in this listing and ask that only two people are in the unit at a time. Please write offers subject to interior inspection. Thank you!
NOW TO THE GOOD STUFF…
Much to love in this spacious, light-filled mid-century charmer! Gleaming hardwood floors, gas fireplace, 2 bedrooms, 1 bathroom, den, and bonus space for a home office with a door to the patio. Newer windows, gutters, roof, water heater. Check out the mid-mod bar, ample space and separate entrance in the basement. Huge landscaped backyard filled with trees! Walkable, bike-able, close to transit and the airport – this is the home you’ve been waiting for.
About Us:
Over the course of their professional partnership, Aryne + Dulcinea have helped over 200 clients prosper in their new lives. During this time, they have prided themselves in their top-notch selling abilities, with homes outperforming market standards, consistently exceeding list price while most of their listings sell in under 7 days. Whether you’re looking to buy or sell, Aryne & Dulcinea will work in collaboration to guide you in investing in your future and reaching your real estate goals.
While I haven’t restored a multifamily property before, I have remodeled plenty of single family houses. So, I figure it might be similar, just times two. I am just beginning this one. Right now, these side by side units mirror each other with one bedroom and a bath on the main floor, and another bedroom upstairs. The basement is a blank canvas, unfinished, and on the dingy side.
My plan is to add a bathroom upstairs to create a nice master suite, as well as an additional bedroom, laundry and family room in the basement. The two units will still mirror each other, but I don’t know…maybe we’ll change up the finishes on each side. Updates to come as we move along.
Perched on the bluff that gave Overlook its name, this beautiful mid-century home stands today as an icon, balancing the southern arm of what many would argue is North Portland’s most incredible street.
As you approach this 1956 home you are welcomed by custom metalwork and adjacent hardscape. Entering the home, you are greeted by some of the most incredible surface treatments you will ever see in a residential structure. As you move into the living room the metalwork wraps around the stunning fireplace that serves as a deserving centerpiece. Massive updated windows allow an abundance of light to accentuate the incredible colors of the home and provide an amazing view of the bluff and the cityscape.
The kitchen has been carefully updated to include white quartz counters, mahogany cabinets and a notable appliance package. An expansive outdoor deck reinforces the home’s incredible flow and offers outdoor access from the dining and living rooms. A separate entry from the SE adds to the interior/exterior flow and greets you with a custom hutch accented by a bulletin board and key drop.
The main level is rounded out by 2 bedrooms and 2 full bathrooms. The master suite features a hand painted mural inspired by Van Gogh that extends from the wall into a paneled door covering. The en suite bathroom is luxurious in both its fit, finish, and layout.
Beyond the main level is the lower daylight basement with high ceilings, bright colors, and an abundance of living space with access to a partially covered outdoor area. A large central room makes an excellent gym or play area and the additional bedroom and full bathroom is ideal for guest quarters. A family room with brick fireplace, 4th full bathroom and laundry room round out the lower level.
Thoughtfully designed and planned at every turn, this captivating mid-century home is arguably one of the most important homes in this neighborhood and beyond. With one-of-a-kind details, an incredible color palette, and an unmatched location, it’s no surprise that it has been featured in design publications like Domino magazine. This mid-century Overlook is truly a piece of art.
California dreaming! Gorgeous mid-century ranch was professionally designed with custom updates. Sitting on a sunny, oversize lot with open floor plan and tons of natural light. New cook’s kitchen, new spa-like bath on main floor and new bathroom in the finished basement with guest quarters, family room with second fireplace and 3rd bedroom. Great outdoor spaces for all season indoor/outdoor living. Giant double garage with one side finished as an art studio. New electrical panel, paint. HES 5.
Two years, one new baby and a lot of homes later, the Ross family has found the ONE! Sometimes you have to kiss a few frogs before you find your prince! My good friends, The Ross’s, needed more space for their family (of 6!) and set out to find the perfecthome a few years back. We ooh’ed over Hartung Farms beauties, Lake Oswego mansions and some 
of Bauer Woods’ best. In the end, the style of this 4,100 sq ft mid-century stunner won their hearts.
This home is so special for many reasons. It was built in 1950 and much of the original character is in tact. The wood paneling, angled ceilings and floor to ceiling windows really make the home shine. With 4 bedrooms and 4.5 bathrooms and much of the home on 1 level, there is room for the whole family. There is a bonus room and bar area with a garage door that opens to the patio and pool – perfect for summer entertaining. Upstairs, a loft area and bright room will serve as a bedroom for their oldest child.
Down a separate hallway, the master suite is spacious and private with views of the pool and landscape. Walk down a bamboo lined pathway behind the pool and find a secret hideaway equipped with a wine fridge, dart board and cable TV… the perfect man-cave or she-shed!
This family has big plans to make this home their own and I know that they will create magic with whatever they decide to do. I can’t wait to see the finished product and take a dip in the pool next summer!!! Thank you for trusting in me Ross’s! I am so excited for your family to make many memories at this gorgeous home. Congratulations!!!
Perched on a hill above greenspace, this home is truly unlike no other. The wall of windows fills the home with natural light and makes you feel like you are living in the trees. The vaulted open beam, wood ceilings and incredible floor to ceiling rock fireplace are focal points of it’s high end mid-century modern architecture.
Designed and built by Willard E. Schwarz in 1964 at which time the home was awarded the distinction of being a Gold Medallion Home, for innovative use of electricity. This two bedroom two bath treehouse backs up to George Himes park, is just 5 minutes from downtown in the Parkhill neighborhood exactly one mile from Hillsdale proper and Wilson High.
The flexible living space affords many possibilities. Perhaps the lower level could be converted to additional living space and used for a family member or as a rental, either long term or Airbnb.
It was raining hard that Saturday, but even under their Pacific Northwest appropriate rain gear, I could see, as the walked up the front steps, Dan and Allison had style. They stepped into the newly revamped mid century ranch I was hosting, careful to shake the drops from their slickers and shoes before crossing into the doorway, and audibly aahhhhed at the beauty of the Alameda home. I greeted them and in just a few minutes, we were connecting like old friends. They had moved to Portland after living some years in Brooklyn, their apartment not far from where I spent my last four years in Red Hook, prior to moving home to our City of Roses.
From their love of food to their eyewear accessories, I knew we were going to have kinship. They were just stopping by the open house, not necessarily home shopping, but curious about the market, content in their current Alberta neighborhood rental. Less than an hour and a half later, I received a call from Dan. They sincerely enjoyed meeting me and would I help them find a house in Portland? It was a match!
I had the delightful joy of helping them over the next few months, taking them to a spectrum of Portland homes, blended in their age and style. Allison wanted something with the charm of Old Portland. Dan needed something very well constructed to ease his nerves about the possible approaching earthquake. We found just what we were hoping for in Beaumont Wilshire, keeping them close in to the amenities of Alberta street which they so love. They’re just the type of people those of us who grew up here, hope for in the folks that move to our beloved city from out of state. They are endlessly kind, attentive to detail, retain a sincere desire to give back and participate in every way possible, care about their impact, and truly adore the chance to involve themselves in their surroundings. Brooklyn is home to many, many magnificent people. I dare to say, I’m delighted Portland has been able to snag these two and give them roots here through the discovery of home ownership and beyond.
Thank you so very much Dan and Allison! May Portland bring you all the discoveries this city has to offer for years to come!
Great vibes at this spacious 1962 Mid-Century Modern ranch impeccably restored, reimagined, and modernized. The home sits back off the street on an oversized lot. Enter into the light and airy open layout kitchen / living / dining with two skylights and two fireplaces. Two bedrooms and master with en suite bath on the main. Finished lower level with separate entrance, large living room with fireplace, generous legal bedroom, full bath, and laundry. Large 2 car garage. New plumbing, electrical, furnace, water heater, and solid wood doors. New bathrooms, refinished oak hardwood floors, and new paint. Fenced backyard with lawn and covered patio.
4 bed | 3 bath | 2,467 sq. ft.
MLS# 19488446 | Taxes: $3,705 | Lot Size: 7,405 sq. ft.
$449,000
For more restored and renovated houses, click here
Rare Home Energy Score of 10! This top to bottom, quality remodeled modern home has an open floor plan, tons of light and indoor, outdoor living in mind. Every space has been thoughtfully updated with beautiful finishes and custom touches. All new mechanics including heated floors main floor and down, paired with mini-splits for a comfortably warm or cool home. New siding, new roof, new porch and deck! Immaculate and move in ready. Stellar Alameda/Sabin location!
Lovely light-filled Scandinavian inspired home! Recent, custom, and comprehensive remodel delivers stylish bathrooms, beautiful cook’s kitchen, newer roof and most of the windows. Enjoy indoor/outdoor living with access to private courtyard and lush back yard from dining room and your master retreat. Gleaming wood floors, fresh paint, fireplace and built-in shelves in living room. Sits up off the street making for great sunset views! HES 4
This lovely Lents ranch has been skillfully restored and features beautiful hardwood floors, a gorgeous tiled bathroom, a charming kitchen and a light filled dining area with brand new vinyl flooring. Add the fresh paint throughout and this place sparkles!
The mini splits for warmth and air conditioning, plus the newer double pane windows and the deep attic insulation earned this charming ranch a Home Energy Score of 8!
The gigantic fenced yard has a brand new 7′ cedar fence along the south side, a delightful covered patio and is ready for your backyard farming, entertaining and/or to add that ADU you’ve been dying to build.
Remodeled mid-century modern style home perched at the end of a private driveway on an over-sized forested lot in Sylvan Highlands. Open concept main floor and vaulted ceilings provide lots of natural light. Large kitchen perfect for entertaining or an experimental chef. So much space in the three luxurious private bedrooms and three full baths, all remodeled. Master is complete with walk-in closet and en-suite featuring dual shower heads. Tranquil front terrace and deck looks over the large private lot, perfect spot to relax at the end of a long day. This one of a kind home is conveniently located just minutes from Downtown Portland and Washington Park with all the fun stuff.
An adorable mid-century ranch sits on a private over-sized lot perfect for summer get togethers. The open floor plan boasts a remodeled kitchen with stainless steel appliances and a new heat pump keeps you cool all summer and cozy in the winter. Mature trees and landscaping give this sweet home ample curb appeal on this quiet street. You’ll find plenty of storage space in the large shed and parking both off street and inside the fully fenced back yard. Close to Rose City Taqueria, food trucks, Pier Park, and downtown St. Johns.
Magical is the best way to describe this gorgeous home and it cast its’ spell on its’ new owners before we could get it onto the market! The minute they saw it they knew that it was their forever home. I had the pleasure of representing the sellers of this special home. It is still fun to look at and see the architectural treasures that are found throughout our incredible city so I wanted to share it with you, enjoy! If you are looking for your magical midcentury, get in touch!
Marisa Swenson – Specializing in Modern Home Sales
971-285-7955
modernhomesportland.com
Designed by William Fletcher in 1965, inspired by Mies van der Rohe’s famed Farnsworth house and the International Style of architecture. This stunning home is a magnificent example of true, high end mid century modern architecture with a Pacific Northwest touch. Custom updates compliment the original architecture with Western Oregon Black Walnut cabinets and fireplace mantel, designer tile throughout, luxe master suite with heated marble slab floors and a walk-in closet. Beautifully appointed updates in the kitchen, dining and family rooms with built-ins and creative spaces throughout. Floor to ceiling windows connect the home to the lush forested surroundings and bathes the interior with natural light. Perched in the hills of the desirable Bridlemile neighborhood and minutes to downtown Portland.
Marisa Swenson – Specializing in Modern Home Sales
971-285-7955
modernhomesportland.com
East Multnomah County has a treasure trove of hip homes and two are on a May tour.
The Gresham area is a treasure trove of the popular and meticulously designed mid-century modern homes and two of them will be included on a Saturday, May 11, regional tour of these in-demand houses.
“There are some hidden gems in great little neighborhoods” in East Multnomah County, says Marisa Swenson, a REALTOR® and specialist in mid-century modern homes. She is the proud owner of one of the Gresham mid-century modern homes on the tour.
Swenson’s home was designed by architect Day Hilborn and constructed by commercial builder Paul E Emerick. The other Gresham residence on the tour is a beauty built in 1976 by local mid-century master Robert Rummer.
Although always in demand, mid-century modern homes have enjoyed a major resurgence in popularity recently, brought on in part by the wild success of the TV series “Mad Men” set in the stylish, Kennedy-era 1960s and more recently “The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel,” set in 1958. The clothing, furniture, and other designs figure so prominently in these shows that they essentially become a recurring character.
Learn more about these stylish abodes in the article by Teresa Carson HERE
Classic 1955 daylight ranch with full apartment downstairs!
A Milwaukie midcentury just loaded with charm! This very well maintained home features beautiful hardwood floors, 2 fireplaces, a new 35 yr roof, parklike yard with mature landscaping, double garage & lots of storage!
The possibilities abound! This house could be fully owner-occupied, part rental, multi-generational, Airbnb or pure investment.
Close to Trolley Trail, boat ramps, & Orange Max line.
15215 SE Arista Drive, Milwaukie, Ore. 97267
Marisa Swenson – Specializing in Modern Home Sales
971-285-7955
modernhomesportland.com
Stellar Richmond Renovation ~ An exquisite, whole house remodel in one of Southeast Portland’s sweetest neighborhoods. 4 spacious bedrooms, 2 gorgeous bathrooms, custom kitchen with rift-sawn oak cabs, concrete counters, breakfast bar and open eating area. Family room with 2nd fireplace, private deck and patio. Mid century moldings and built-ins. Ample storage, detached garage & all whole house systems totally replaced. Incredible light, corner lot, HES score of 10.
For a Slideshow to all the Photos click HERE
From the moment you enter this exceptional mid-century home you will fall in love with the attention to detail and amazing sense of design. Built in 1946 this home has been lovingly updated with amenities that complement the original design. Clean mid-century lines are accentuated and enhanced by luxurious high-end contemporary finishes. The welcoming floor plan is perfect for daily living and entertaining both indoors and out.
The expansive living room greets you with vaulted ceilings, gas fireplace with marble surround, nearly floor to ceiling windows, period built-in bookshelves, cabinets, and a full wall of gorgeous mirrored display shelves.
The outstanding master suite has been fully remodeled and features a gas fireplace, high end lighting, and window coverings, Ralph Lauren carpet and a beautifully designed walk in closet, along with a separate sitting area with custom built ins and a fully renovated master bath. Down the hall is the spacious second bedroom and a cozy den or third bedroom with deluxe built in desk.
The crown jewel of this end of the house is the incredible, completely renovated main bathroom featuring custom bamboo vanity, room divider and cabinet, ceramic tile walls, Marmoleum flooring, high end fixtures, glass enclosed shower, and an amazing Japanese soaking tub.
At the other end of the house is the marvelous, completely remodeled family room with vaulted knotty pine, tongue and groove ceilings, stone accent wall, newer gas fireplace insert, tile hearth, Marmoleum floors and a built-in home audio system with custom stereo cabinet. Beyond the open pass-through lies the lovely tiled kitchen with cork floors, gas appliances and counter space galore, flanked on one side by a charming dining nook and on the other by an elegant formal dining room.
The outdoor areas are just as incredible featuring lush, meticulously groomed landscaping, winding paths to separate patio areas, a small kidney shaped pool with water feature, and access to the artist studio with double doors that opens onto a private patio with fountain.
The exterior of the home was almost entirely redone in 2009, including Hardiplank siding, several custom doorways, many new windows, updated exterior lighting and a new rock and tile entryway.
