Welcome to your Palm Springs Oasis in Milwaukie. Be the envy of all your friends.
Mid-Century Modern with stylish updates and original character intact. Remodeled kitchen, remodeled bath, new roof, new paint, new furnace, well maintained inground pool. Huge lower party room/family room with bonus room for guests. Fenced manicured yard with entertaining patio. This house is a dream. Open Houses Saturday+Sunday 1-3pm.
This gorgeous contemporary style 2 bedroom condo with a den, bonus loft spaces is minutes away from Intel HQ. Soaring ceilings combined with oversized windows, gorgeous hardwood floors and a sleek dual sided fireplace. Generously sized spaces. Nicely appointed kitchen with newer stainless appliances, granite counters, informal dining area, eat bar area and island. Dine inside in the formal dining or al fresco on the ample sized outdoor patio.
Second floor: Spacious master bedroom is plentiful with room for large furniture as well as clothing in the oversized walk-in closet. Spa like Master Bathroom too. Dual sinks, soaking tub, walk-in shower and a separate commode room. French doors into the second bedroom. Curl up sweet reading nook area in one of the bonus loft spaces.
Third floor: Enjoy the den area for TV hanging out space or use as possible third bedroom. Utilize another bonus space for an office. Enjoy sunsets on the rooftop patio just off the den space.
Comes with two parking stalls in a secure garage as well as a designated storage space.
Furthermore, on the grounds you will find a fantastic clubhouse with weight room, racquetball court, pool with hot tub, billiards and a theater. There is also a community car wash station, outdoor basketball court and park available to residents.
Maybe you are hungry or thirsty? Restaurants, breweries, New Seasons, coffee shops, salon, bank and so more just outside your door. Nearby restaurants include: Little Big Burger, Orenco Grill, Yuki Sushi, Salam Lebanese, Swagat Indian, Chennai Masala, La Provence, Pizza Schmizza.
Near Intel HQ and just a few block over in distance is Max Blue Line. Great walk score and bike score too!
It is not often that I see a home that makes me consider moving, but this exquisite new construction by Olson Design Build & Benjamin Silver Design did just that.
I represented the buyer of this property and he is one lucky person.
Tasteful European styling is fused with modern sophistication in this airy condo, and two gas fireplaces are perfect for chilly Fall evenings.
Featuring locally sourced, live-edge wood and rift cut white oak cabinetry, this energy efficient home was built to Earth Advantage standards and is one of my favorite homes of 2018.
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Nick and Amy started their search much like other clients: set on a quintessential Portland Bungalow. But, also like other clients, these two soon found the quirky layouts and never-ending upkeep to be unappealing long term.
So they pivoted. And we began looking at more modern townhomes. Beautiful finishes, smaller yards, and open layouts perfect for entertaining, had swayed these two away from Bungalows.
I learn so much from clients I work with (part of the reason I love my job), and Nick and Amy were no different. Both are architects and walking through homes with them was eye opening. They were also the most proactive house hunters I have ever met.
So, what are four lessons you can learn from shopping for a home with a pair of successful architects? Here we go!
Nick & Amy always impressed me with their ability to love a home, but give it a night. This allowed them to take the pressure off and really think about whether or not it was a good fit for them. Too often Buyers are quick to write because of potential competing offers. They get caught up in the excitement of it all without really thinking, “Do I really want to live here?” Loving a house doesn’t necessarily make it perfect for you. If you wake up in the morning and are still smitten, write away! Or go see it again.
I love taking clients on tour, but believe it’s equally important for clients to tour on their own if they want to. These two were incredibly proactive on the weekends, looking at a number or properties without me around. It takes the pressure off and allows people to really get a sense of the home and whether or not they can see themselves in it long term. There’s a level of honesty that Buyers are able to have with their partners when it’s just them in a house. Critical when making such a big decision!
These two were incredible at pulling information on properties they were interested in. Much of this can be attributed to their day to day; they have to do a lot of research at work. But, non-architect Buyers take note. Look up properties you’re interested in on Portland Maps. See if there are any permit issues, or what the home’s zoning is. It also helps to know when the current owner purchased the home (and for what price) when shaping an offer strategy. A quick Google search doesn’t hurt either…information is power.
During inspection Amy came prepared with measuring tape and tablet. She took dimensions of the entire house so that she could create a 3D model prior to move in. Not all Buyers are this tech savvy or handy, but it helps to take at least basic room measurements to make sure that things will fit come moving day. And if you are looking to transform the space but aren’t comfortable laying out the space on your own? Look to an e-design service to help. Sites like Havenly will take your dimensions and create floorplans based on your aesthetic and budget.
So excited for Nick and Amy and can’t wait to see how they transform this cute row-house into their own. I have no doubt it will be beautiful!
Interested in buying or selling in Portland? Reach out to Sophia: 503.936.7499. Or learn more about her background and experience here.
The much anticipated documentary about famed designer Dieter Rams is coming this Fall. The creator/director Gary Hustwit, known for his design documentaries Objectified, Helvetica, Urbanized, will be hosting a Portland premiere followed by a Q&A session on October 10th at Cinema 21.
His work has influenced the way most of today’s consumer products look and function. The computer or phone you’re reading this on looks the way it does because of Dieter Rams. Dieter’s influence also extends to his “Ten Principles of Good Design,” a list of edicts that champions simplicity, honesty, and restraint, and still applies to design theory and practice today.
In 2008, Gary [Hustwit] interviewed Dieter for his documentary Objectified, but was only able to share a small piece of his story in that film. Dieter, who is now 85, is a very private person; however Gary has been granted unprecedented access to create the first feature-length documentary about his life and work. The documentary is simply titled Rams.
Rams will include in-depth conversations with Dieter, and dive deep into his philosophy, his process, and his inspirations. But one of the most interesting parts of Dieter’s story is that he now looks back on his career with some regret. “If I had to do it over again, I would not want to be a designer,” he’s said. “There are too many unnecessary products in this world.” Dieter has long been an advocate for the ideas of environmental consciousness and long-lasting products. He’s dismayed by today’s unsustainable world of over-consumption, where “design” has been reduced to a meaningless marketing buzzword.
Rams is a design documentary, but it’s also a rumination on consumerism, materialism, and sustainability. Dieter’s philosophy is about more than just design, it’s about a way to live. It’s about getting rid of distractions and visual clutter, and just living with what you need.
The film features original music by pioneering musician and producer Brian Eno. Rams is currently in production and will be released later in Fall 2018.
Text and image courtesy Gary Hustwit.
Date: October 10, 2018
Time: 7:00 pm – 9:00 pm
Where: Cinema 21
616 Northwest 21st Avenue
This stunning Sellwood craftsman sits in one of the neighborhood’s most sought after pockets! A charming foyer greets you as you enter the main floor, while a gas fireplace with classic built-ins draws your attention into the light filled great room. The gorgeous kitchen showcases an expansive island and top shelf finishes, including Schoolhouse fixtures and quartz counters, while the open dining room, main floor powder room, laundry and attached garage highlight functional simplicity.
The second floor features a highly sought after 3 bedroom, 2 bath layout. The master bathroom includes a custom double vanity with under mounted sinks and slab counters, while the second full bath features a broad shouldered vanity, subway tile and simple elegance. The third floor is home to a giant media room with vaulted ceilings, third full bathroom and adjacent fourth bedroom. Just blocks to Sellwood shops. Walk Score 90 / Bike Score 79.
Excluded from the RMLS, this swanky 60’s mid-century modern charmer was sold by word of mouth (literally, as the seller’s sister Betsy was at a nearby favorite restaurant she overheard the owners talking about buying a mid-century home and told them about this home and voila, it’s KISMET!!). Yes, we realize that YOU ALL wanted a stab at it and you definitely wanted to tour it! But this situation worked really well for the sellers. Sure, I would have loved to have marketed this marvel to the world, but you don’t mess with kismet!
It is now sold, however, the sellers have given me the okay to post a few pics and a bit about the provenance to feed your mid-century addiction!
Also, please note that if you like any of the art you see hanging in the home, it is by Betsy Jones. Contact her at bjonesmcm@gmail.com.
1245 NE 153rd, Portland OR 97230
5 beds, 3 bath, 3333 Sq ft.
Sold and appraised for $620,000
NEWSPAPER ARTICLES: The sellers and the home were included in the East Portland Architectural Survey and consequently written up in several articles about said survey and the architectural wonders of East Pdx.
https://www.oregonlive.com/por
https://www.oregonlive.com/por
ARCHITECTURAL SURVEY INCLUSION:
The home and the neighborhood are included on the survey though I’m not sure the writers did as deep due diligence as we have. The neighborhood is mostly made up of Hallberg Homes (a tract developer), but this one is custom. Also, down at the end of 153rd, closer to Glisan are four Emmons and Jones (Eichler’s Architects) designed MCM’s, which add weight to the neighborhood’s prestige to mid-century enthusiasts.
https://www.portlandoregon.gov
Alyssa Starelli, Broker
Specializing in Mid-Century and Period-Perfect properties.
Living Room Realty
alyssa@livingroomre.com
www.aly-star.com
The Architectural Heritage center is hosting a tour in downtown Portland highlighting some of our greatest architects. on August 11th, 2018 from 10am-noon there will be a guided tour in the downtown core.
Information from the Architectural Heritage Center’s website:
The names Pietro Belluschi, Skidmore, Owings and Merrill, Richard Sundeleaf, and Zimmer Gunsul Frasca, are synonymous with Portland’s growth in the years since the end of the Second World War. Their modernist designs dominated new construction in downtown and forever changed the Portland skyline.
This tour examines the work and legacy of these masters of Portland’s modernist architectural heritage. Along the way you’ll see what many call Portland’s first skyscraper, now quite literally towered over by the nearby US Bancorp Tower. You’ll see banks, office towers, public plazas, and hotels, along with Belluschi’s most important Portland building and a few more recent additions to the city’s skyline.
Space is Limited. Pre-Registration is Required.
Admission:
$20.00 General Public
$12.00 AHC Members
About The Architectural Heritage Center
The Architectural Heritage Center’s mission is to “inspire people to conserve the art, craft, and context of historic buildings and places to promote our cultural heritage as a vital element of livable, sustainable, communities.” We seek to preserve the historic character and livability of our built environment, and to promote sustainability through the re-use of period homes and buildings.
Owned and operated by the non-profit Bosco-Milligan Foundation, we empower people in the Portland region to preserve both landmark buildings and the regular “vernacular” vintage homes and storefronts that collectively define our neighborhoods, traditional downtowns,culture, history, and quality of life.
Marisa Swenson – Specializing in Modern Home Sales
971-285-7955
modernhomesportland.com
Just sold – After many months of searching and many offers submitted my very sweet and patient buyers scored a dreamy mid century modern of their very own. They beat out multiple offers (one all cash even) by getting creative with what they had available to offer and it worked! Congrats Kevin and Kiersta, welcome to the MCM owners club. Let us know when we can put you on a tour!
Just sold – this lovely Rummer home built in 1969 has a new owner – I had the pleasure of representing the sellers in bringing this gorgeous home to market and getting it sold quickly with multiple offers well above list price!
Originally built in 1927, this stunning Dutch Colonial sits on an oversized lot on one of Alameda’s most cherished streets. With a central location in what is arguably Northeast’s most sought after community, this home is the perfect juxtaposition of a contemporary floor plan with stunning period finishes and modern updates at every turn. The main floor is home to over 1,000 sqft where an elegant foyer leads you to both a stunning living room and a remodeled open kitchen with clear vertical grain cabinets, Carrara marble counters and newly refinished wood floors.
Once upon a time, many many years ago, when I was yet a young thing — before my joints creaked and my hair grayed (like back in 2014) 
— I met Eric and Karena in front of a mid-century modern house. It wasn’t the RIGHT house, but it was a nice one. It cemented our working relationship and started our friendship. We went to cool shows, we saw cool houses.. it was alright!
A few months later I was able to hook them up with a pocket listing (essentially, a friend told me their home was available to my clients if I ever had someone who’d be interested) of the most astounding mid-century in deep East PDX (that’s my opinion but it’s widely shared). It had vaulted, beamed ceilings, a rad fireplace, a stellar pool, a spiral staircase, and plenty of room for the sanctuary of lazy Bassett hounds (K & E’s preferred breed of dog). But there was a caveat: the sellers had to find a house of ‘comparable coolness’ in a better school district closer in to the city. Quite the feat for anybody, but a bigger feat for people trading in the ‘best house’ ever!
So Karena and Eric patiently waited, and waited, and when the sellers bailed out of the deal for lack of finding something as-good, we commenced shopping. We shopped for several years, always chasing a ghost of “The House that Could Have Been“. As my hair grayed and my knees began to creak (not really, but felt like it) we continued to see a house this month, another house that, maybe a few all at once.. But they all were just NOT RIGHT. Goldilocks WASN’T eating porridge in that dining room!
So we persevered. We kept the dream alive that they would indeed find the dream home — one with a vaulted beamed ceiling, fabulous fireplace, swanky swimming pool, room for hounds to roam, and cool paneling. And in 2017, they did.
It’d been on the market for a month or two, but the pics weren’t particularly representative — the kitchens (yes, two) needed some love and it was deep into Happy Valley. I’d certainly brushed over it assuming it would be a resounding “NO”. But they decided to hit an open house, and in person, the house WOWED! It had everything on the list: Fabulously high vaulted ceilings with an array of central beams and cross beams in both kitchen/dining and the living room which were separated by a huge roman brick open-bottom two-sided fireplace, with built-in rotisserie grill. The kitchen had a dutch door, original metal cabinetry, an island and a lot of potential! The master suite had it’s own deck, (even the garage had a deck), and there was also a spiral stair case down to the AMAZING pool! The house was full of cool paneling, and offered myriad rooms for offices and dens, guest rooms and hair salons! There was an entire second home in the basement, complete with knotty pine, roman brick fireplace, and jalousie windows, and french doors, all of which opened up to the pool.
BUT, what’s more:
Standing in either the living room, dining room, or kitchen and most of the bedrooms of either story of the home, or from either of the lawns, the hot tub house, or even bobbing in the pool you could see an EXPANSIVE VIEW that from some angles included Mt. St. Helens!!! This was something the deep east dream home did not offer! Goldilocks says this one is “Just Right”.
BUT THERE WAS A CAVEAT.. Of course there was! These sellers wanted to partition the lot to create a flag lot below, prior to close. Sounds easy enough right?? (wait for it).
Karena and Eric waited and worried through eight (8) painful months of fruitless updates and frustrating responses from the city of Happy Valley, hands tied, as the sellers muddled though on everyone’s behalf. The partitioning of this particular lot turned out to be an untenable mess and a very expensive and time-wasting proposition. After much persuasion and fact finding on our part (and perhaps some relief on theirs) the Sellers agreed that it was simply not worth the cost, nor especially the further wait (we were OVER IT) and they should give up and sell the property as a whole for a reasonable price.
So in July of 2018, 4 years and 9 months and many gray hairs later, we CLOSED on that house and swam in that pool, drank champagne and celebrated the painful art of PERSEVERANCE!! [and then we checked out what that creepy hidden sealed (with duct tape no less) passage way in the basement was, pics below].
So CONGRATS to my good friends Karena and Eric. It has truly been an adventure with you! I can’t wait to see what you do with your dream home, and I look forward to watching movies from the pool, playing mini-putt putt on the lawns, and growing even older watching that view with the two you!
Sincerely, Alyssa
Ps. sorry I didn’t get pics of the pool or the view, next visit!
The Architecture Foundation of Oregon’s Dine and Design events are back for the Summer and Fall.
The foundation, whose goal is to support “Oregon’s quality of life and creates awareness of our designed environment through education, engagement and inspiration” host unique fundraising meals throughout the summer. From June through September, guests can have a fantastic meal with drinks, prepared by some of Oregon’s hottest chefs and culinary craftspeople, in the fabulous confines of one architecturally significant place or another and in the presence of an architect involved in the project or one who can speak to it. Occasions range from cozy dinners to large cocktails soirees.
These Dine & Design events raise money to support the programs of AFO, including their unique Architects in Schools program which directly interacts with nearly 5,000 elementary students per year around Oregon. The long-running Architects in Schools program seeks to instill in young Oregonians ideas of the creative power and possibilities of design with the objective of creating lifelong students and critical thinkers who are engaged with their community.
Begun by AFO since 2003, the Architects in Schools program is equal part arts programming, environmental understanding, awareness of cultural links to history, understanding ecological responsibilities, career awareness & communication skills – all through the architecture and design ideas, while simultaneously addressing Common Core & Next Generation Science Standards.
A few upcoming Dine & Design Events:
Fab Food & Drinks in the Forest
August 2 @ 6:30 pm
Brian and Melody Emerick welcome you to their beautiful home situated 750’ above the Willamette River. The first LEED-certified independent dwelling in Portland, it’s nestled in 300 protected acres of Terwilliger Parkway, preserved by the Olmsted Brothers ‘City Beautiful’ vision in the early 20th century. Dinner and cocktails will be prepared by chefs Kyle Webster Linden of Expatriate and Naomi Pomeroy of Beast.
For more info, visit the AFO website here.
Marisa Swenson – Licensed in OR & WA
Breathe in and breathe out into this sensational custom mid-century modern home. A private and peaceful property on a large, beautifully landscaped lot. Let the zen courtyard, complete with unique water feature, welcome you home each day. Inside you’ll find a recently updated kitchen and bathroom with large windows to connect you with the outdoors. Close to New Seasons, Fred Meyer, Uwajimaya, and several restaurants and breweries, this stylish home is a centrally located oasis waiting for you!
Marisa Swenson – Licensed in OR & WA
It’s always a great privilege when keen and educated mid-century enthusiasts find me and ask me to help them find their dream home. Kenn and Cheryl are just 
those people. They’re great researchers and know everything about their collections — from Franciscan tile and pottery, to pin ball machines, turntables, a vinyl collection large enough to implode a home. Kenn even researched the door bell of the new home they bought, before they bought it!! I am a generalist and know a little about a lot, so it’s fabulous to learn from others.
Astute researchers (wink wink), they claim they’d been following my work and blogs for several years and felt we were similar people in our likes and interests, and seemed like we’d be in the same circle of friend (sooo right!) and so made a special trip to meet and see houses. We toured a bunch — from mid-century marvels to arts and crafts hovels– and had great fun giddily pointing out and ogling the remaining vintage features of each home, dropping knowledge on each other like real nerds!
They settled on a really neat, pristine and quite rare 2800 sft one -level 60’s ranch with a gated front courtyard that just oozed mid-century glamour. The kitchen was 95% OG, from the fabulous walnut clean-lined cabinets to the in-wall glass-faced Flair double oven. Kenn says: “Frigidaire Flair Custom Deluxe, but without the burners, rotisserie or the lower storage area. The (cooktop) burners have a GE hood with the controls for each burner affixed to the front of the hood.” The master bath is in aqua-blue with a vintage asterisk or starburst motif (but NOT thee “Starburst”, as in Franciscan-ware motif) tile with original cabinetry and matching sink and toilet, with walk-in closet. The main bath is in a celadon green tile of bubble or grape motif with double sinks, a full wall mirror and a toilet nook. Even the powder room has a bright aqua toilet and matching sink. But what’s more is the full hallway of original brown Franciscan (the advertisement came with the paperwork) tile. From Kenn: “Franciscan Terra Floor Tile, walnut colored with a pebble finish.” The original door bell still exists and as mentioned above, Kenn and Cheryl researched it before he broke it (just kidding Kenn): “Also a mystery is why it rang 16 chimes (I did it three times with 16) before and only rings 8 now.” My answer: because old things have a mind of their own — hence why my scooter only starts one kick when I don’t have someplace to be.
The few updates to the home were to flooring but included sheet marmoleum in the kitchen and laundry rooms which though not a favorite color, was definitely an appropriate pick; A new gutter system that altered the stream-line of the roof (but you wouldn’t know if you hadn’t been told); the infill of a koi pond in the courtyard (ie Raccoon Cafeteria). All together, it was pristine enough to pique their imagination and the one-level age-in-place scenario means I won’t be listing it for some years to come! (Joke).
Surprisingly, after nearly a week on the market, we were the only offer. We were able to get a fair deal for a fabulous home in the heart of Glendoveer, in the neighborhood Tweten Park, half a block from the golf course. Truly a dream for mid-century enthusiasts, and a really fun one for me!
FOR pics of all the awesomeness the Virtual Tour is here: http://www.porticobox.com/920-ne-151st-ave-portland-or-97230-rmls/
So thanks to Kenn and Cheryl for choosing me to be their realtor! I look forward to house-warmings, games nights and pinball parties!
OPEN HOUSES – Wednesday July 11, 5-7pm and Saturday July 14, 12-2pm
Don’t miss this spacious one-level home in the sought after McNary neighborhood in Milwaukie. It features a vaulted living room and formal dining room. The large family room with a gas fireplace adjoins the cook’s kitchen which features a gas cooking island, stainless dishwasher and refrigerator, hardwood floors, and a breakfast nook. The large flower-filled yard has roses, ripe marionberries, raspberries, and blueberries. Explore the large master suite that opens directly to the back garden. The third bedroom features double doors with a transom window, making it perfect for a home office. This move-in ready house has freshly painted walls, new carpet throughout, stylish new light fixtures, and satin nickel hardware. Home features a three car garage, laundry room, storeroom, RV parking, and sprinkler system. And don’t forget about the central AC!
3 bed | 2 bath | 2342 sq. ft.
Taxes: $5599.52 Lot Size: 0.23 Acre
MLS# 18449287
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Interested in making Portland your home?
Call Cheri Harney, at 503-319-4858.
JUST SOLD: BEAUMONT MODERN
Standing tall on a rare, oversized lot and thoughtfully laid out across three floors. The main floor features an open living / dining room with sweeping ceilings, tons of natural light and an office tucked nicely in the NW corner. The kitchen / great room pairs oak hardwoods with rift white oak cabinetry and classic surface treatments. Cedar and Moss lighting, a LaCantina door and built-in bookshelves speak to some of the high end finishes that compliment one of the finest homes created by Butler Redevelopment to date! The upper floor features an incredible master with dueling closets and stunning en suite bathroom. Three additional bedrooms and a laundry round out the second floor which features gorgeous tree top views of the surrounding neighborhood. The lower level features a wet bar and expansive family room, while a large fifth bedroom and fourth bath provide ample space for a large family or visiting guests. Situated half a block from Wilshire Park and on one of Beaumont-Wilshire’s quietest streets. This grand modern home leaves nothing to chance.
JUST SOLD: Modern English
Renovated in 2018, this Beaumont English boasts 4 beds and 3-1/2 baths. The main floor is home to a stunning open, kitchen with rift white oak cabinets, eat-in nook, Wolf range and Cedar & Moss lighting. The living room has a wood burning fireplace, refinished hardwoods and expansive windows. From the living room you find yourself engaged by an open dining room, complete with a classic Nelson Saucer pendant and noteworthy LaCantina door, seamlessly blending interior and exterior living spaces. A large bedroom and full bath round out the main floor. The upper floor has an ideal 3 bed, 2 bath layout, in addition to a loft / office and quaint nook, perfect for long naps, crafting or kids who want to be kids. The master suite features two closets and a double vanity, while the stained concrete floors, half bath and open spaces in the basement provide numerous options for the next owner. One of Butler Redevelopment’s finest homes to date – located within the Alameda catchment and just blocks to shops, featuring beautiful grounds, an oversized garage and an address just off the ridge!
One of the most incredible Rummer’s to ever hit market! Unique large, one-level floor plan wraps around the central atrium with skylights, built-in planters and aggregate flooring brings the out- doors in. Rummers’ signature post and beam construction with vaulted wood tongue and groove ceilings while natural light fills this stunning space with walls of windows, skylights throughout. Newly polished concrete floors with radiant heat and ductless mini split units providing A/C make this home comfortable year round. Bask in the stylishly renovated master suite bathroom with designer Pratt & Larson tiles and custom cabinets by Moriki design. Includes a brand new high end membrane roof and an oversized, fenced lot.
Marisa Swenson – Licensed in OR & WA
This home has been thoughtfully restored by owners who have a discerning eye for exquisite modern design and finishes. The main level features vaulted, tongue and groove wood ceilings with exposed beam detail, Brazilian cherry hardwood floors and floor-to-ceiling windows over-looking the forested landscape. Fully renovated kitchen opens to the dining and living room. The private master suite includes heated tile floor, skylights, and a Duravit sink in the bathroom. New energy efficient windows and solid core interior doors throughout. Gorgeous Mahogany decking wraps around the back of the house tying into the multi level stone patios surrounded by modern landscaping, perfect for entertaining.
Marisa Swenson – Licensed in OR & WA
Sat, June 2, 2018
11:00 AM – 5:00 PM PDT
May (the month of Mason’s) broke down like this:
5 addresses
3 buildings
6 buyers represented
2 sellers represented
3 title companies
3 appraisals
Whew….
Other Mason related items below…Including a link to the (very close to Mason Street) Backyard Bird Shop, and how you too can welcome Mason bees into your back yard. 🙂
http://backyardbirdshop.com/bird-backyard-info/mason-bees/
Dream Home…
The minute this home hit the market, our clients started fantasizing about living in their dream home. They had not considered moving, but quickly were outgrowing their little home as their baby girl approaches 1 years old. They decided to pick up the phone and ask us if they could see the home. As we walked through the open floor plan with sunlight flooding in from every window and greenspace all around they knew they were home… Way to go, we are so excited that you found your dream home to raise your family in!
Karim + Jessica, REALTORS® & Dream Weavers
OPEN HOUSES – Saturday & Sunday, 12 to 2 pm on May 5 & 6
Here’s the mid-century home you’ve been waiting for in Vista Hills. Spectacular gardens surround this beautifully maintained one-level home featuring tasteful move-in ready decor and meticulous updating. Wonderful floor plan includes formal living and dining room in the front with built-in cabinetry, plantation shutters and wood-burning fireplace. A large family room opens to a private, park-like fenced backyard with a spacious patio for entertaining. The kitchen is well-appointed with gas range, double ovens and subzero refrigerator. The master suite offers french door access to the garden and a stunning custom bath. Great storage throughout with double closets in all bedrooms. Recently remodeled laundry room has granite counters and new washer/dryer. AC, irrigation system, garden water feature and security lighting enhance the property.
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Interested in making Portland your home? Call Cheri Harney, at 503-319-4858.
This fully remodeled Tigard home is centrally located with easy access to Hwy 99, I5 and 217. It is situated on a cul-de-sac street with access to walking paths and only steps away from beautiful Woodard park. Filled with natural light, the kitchen features new quartz countertops, new cabinetry and stainless steel appliances. With a coveted open floor plan, the family room boasts high ceilings, a dining area and large slider to a brand new deck overlooking the spacious, freshly landscaped back yard. On the main level you’ll find two serene bedrooms and a fully remodeled bath. Head downstairs to an oversized family room with access to the backyard, a 3rd bedroom and another fully remodeled bathroom. With brand new windows, flooring, tile, paint, baseboards, light fixtures, interior and exterior doors, siding and HVAC, this move in ready home is a must see!
Lots of people want to work from home, even more want to live near their workplace. How about cutting that commute time down to zero?! A detached micro office just outside the back door provides the perfect scenario. Neil can pop out back to the office in the garden and pop back in for lunch with Elisse and the baby. The ideal spot for his software engineering projects.
This growing family found a rare newer home in the South Tabor area, offering a family friendly floor plan. All of the bedrooms, and even the laundry room are upstairs. The main floor is open and features a fab kitchen. The deal even included a piano! Dreamy.
Gorgeous traditional on a beautiful lot, less than a mile from downtown Milwaukie. Island Station Retreat sits blocks from river acces, Elk Rock Island, nature trails & bike paths. This late mid century has been beautifully updated with wood & bamboo flooring, tile and fixtures, modern bathrooms and renovated kitchen. Open floorplan includes gas fireplace, dining room with access to covered custom decking, private yard with berry bushes, raised beds and natives. 3 bedrooms and mixed-use 4th, attached garage and ample storage. Truly move-in ready.
For a Photo Slideshow of Click HERE
As real estate agents, we know our neighborhoods, but once in a while we discover one newly. I found this great mid century ranch in the Madison South neighborhood. This house has this very unique great room with vaulted ceilings. You certainly wouldn’t guess that from looking at the house from the curb. Madison South is a great little neighborhood just up the road from Roseway and in the valley of Rocky Butte.
The neighborhood is quiet, with little traffic, and everyone seems to be walking the dogs or kids around. We started making updates to this house including a new roof, and replacing the old electric cadet heaters with a brand new high efficiency furnace and ducting. As some of the final details are coming together with the interior updates, I can’t help but think about the family that had been here so long, over 70 years I hear. It of course reminds me of my own Granny’s house in Clarkston, Michigan about an hour North of Detroit. She was there for about 50 years before she passed away at the feisty age of 102 in 2010.
While my family and I bought this house to restore it, I never consider it mine. The ones that lived here for 70 years are still the owners, and I’m more of a placeholder getting it ready for the next family. It may seem trite, but I always hope the improvements we make are ones that will make the previous owners happy or proud. I hope they still see their house, when they look at the work we did, and that we’ve done well enough to leave all the character for them to still see their memories through our work.
Keep an eye open for this one. 8603 NE Dyer, Portland, OR. It will be looking for a new family to take cafe of it for the next 70 years. In the meantime, if you want to learn more about Madison South, check out their webpage here
Design Week is upon us here in Portland and there are some interesting events going on around town that you will not want to miss. Here are a few of the events this week that highlight housing within the design world.
What is DWP?
Design Week Portland is a week-long, city-wide series of programs exploring the process, craft, and practice of design across all disciplines. Our mission is to increase appreciation and awareness about design and its far-reaching effects on matters of cultural and social relevance, including community development, education systems, and the economy.
Wednesday 4/18
Saturday 4/21
Marisa Swenson – Specializing in Modern Home Sales
Perfectly perched on a tiny tree lined street in Northeast’s Beaumont-Wilshire
In close proximity to Wilshire Park, some of Portland’s best schools and Beaumont’s main shopping street (Fremont), lies this gorgeous little caterpillar.
Stay tuned within the coming year see its transformation…
Long time no talk! Remember when we were house shopping and you mentioned that the walls in our house (the mahogany ones, though I’m sure the drywall ones are nice too) were not to be touched?! Well we just redid our kitchen (version 2) and totally doubled down on the awesomeness of our walls and the vibe of our house.
You should come see it in person, but here are some pics. I’m sharing because throughout the entire process I had you in my head. The kitchen feels like it’s always been a part of the house instead of something we just did.
LEED Platinum-certified energy efficient home with zen open spaces, concrete floors, premium finishes, and award-winning design attributes. Abundant light, incredible energy efficiency, minimal carbon footprint, rainwater harvesting, solar H20 heater, in-floor radiant heat, reclaimed Douglas Fir wood, skylights w/ fresh air circulation, and drought resistant landscaping. This true piece of art will make you feel like you’re on vacation!
IF YOU WOULD LIKE MORE INFORMATION OR A PRIVATE SHOWING PLEASE CALL JENNIFER JOHNSTON AT 503-784-2204 OR ELDRIDGE HUNTINGTON AT 503-926-2929.
Incredibly unique Northwest Regional Style custom home built in 1963 and designed by notable Oregon Architect William Hagestad. Rare, Japanese blue clay tiled roof compliments the asian inspired design. Surrounded by lush landscaping on a large private lot at the end of the lane. Soaring vaulted tongue and groove wood ceilings, walls of windows, hardwood floors and a grand hearth in the main living room. The lofted master suite sits on the upper most floor of the innovative multi-level design with a second suite and gourmet kitchen. The large lower level is set up for a second living space with a second kitchen.
Marisa Swenson – Licensed in OR & WA
Perched perfectly at the foot of Forest Park and overlooking the Willamette- today my amazing client closed on her very own urban oasis. The home is the perfect balance of turn of the century craftsmanship and modern updates. Its location offers the very best of Portland just outside the front door.
Wilma and Dean heard about Pringle Creek Community while living in the Bay area. They were looking for a place that would answer their quest for a peaceful retreat; a sustainable and uncluttered home with like minded neighbors.
Their daughter was looking at college in Salem, so it made perfect sense. Wilma sent me this article that articulated her desire to downsize to a simple, sustainable home incorporating the outdoors, and her desire to seek meaningful connections with neighbors. https://visitmaine.com/quarterly/simple-life/maine-minimalism-natural-fit
This LEED platinum home does just that. It’s small, light filled and beautiful- the perfect getaway to a place that emphasizes values of family, community and nature.
Just listed!
This bright, airy craftsman contemporary in Portland’s Montavilla neighborhood has it all: quality new construction, walking distance to Mt. Tabor, and tranquil views. The home lives large with four bedrooms upstairs and 2.5 baths. The spacious master bedroom features a gas fireplace, french doors and deck, a roomy walk-in closet, and an ensuite spa to help soak away life’s stressors. Vaulted ceiling in the loft-like flex space is perfect for a family playroom, and the floorplan includes plenty of inspiring areas for telecommuters.
1665 SE 77TH AVE
PORTLAND, OR 97215
Neighborhood: Montavilla/Mt. Tabor
Bedrooms: 4 BDRMS
Bathrooms: 2.5 BA
Square feet: 2,509 SQFT
Offered at: $718,500
Contact Gabrielle for more information: gabrielle@livingroomre.com or (503) 388-2788.
Are you looking for room to grow or considering relocating to Portland? Give me a call and let’s get you inside!
Till next time, high fives,
New in St. Johns this weekend! Open Houses Saturday and Sunday 1-3pm. Don’t be that guy that waits until spring and then gets priced out of the market. The time is now, folks. It doesn’t get any better than this house at this price. Call me to see. 508-340-1456
Beautiful two bedroom unit in South Tabor/Richmond Area. Built in 2016, this condo offers modern amenities in the heart of historic Southeast Portland. High ceilings, designer kitchen, in-unit laundry, ample storage, walk-in closet and a private 84 sf balcony for outdoor entertaining. Walkscore: 85. Bikescore: 94. Enjoy Division Street’s shops and dining, local transit & nearby Mount Tabor park.
For a Photo Slide Show of this Unit’s Photos click HERE
My longtime friend and client just closed on a 1959 bungalow nestled between four parks and the Glendoveer Golfcourse.
Situated on an oversized lot and convenient to public transportation and shopping I can’t wait to share the photos once this home is brought back to its original glory.
With so much sun this week, it feels like spring is kicking off. I could not be more excited for winter to end and to be outside everyday again. That means the spring market is about to start and I wonder what it will do this year. The last 6 years have been insane, I’m hoping that buyers get a break this year and can have an easier time getting a house. We shall see!
