Gorgeous midcentury home surrounded by Japanese gardens asks $1.8M

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Location: Portland, Oregon

Price: $1,795,000

Built in 1956, this midcentury modern residence in Portland, Oregon, is unique in that it is one of only three homes designed by its owner, who, surprisingly enough, is not a trained architect.

It’s also situated on over an acre of private land, right by the Portland Japanese Garden—which recently got a high-profile expansion by Kengo Kuma—and close to downtown, making it the Holy Grail of properties.

But it’s the structure itself, and the way it engages with its site and the surrounding gardens, that sets it apart. Measuring a generous 4,750 square feet over multiple levels, the house comprising four bedrooms, four bathrooms, two living areas, three fireplaces, and many more opportunities—like wraparound porches—for outdoor relaxation and entertaining.

Floor-to-ceiling windows, sliding glass doors, skylights, and sloping ceilings frame verdant views, while materials like stone and wood create further connections to the natural elements. Updated with modern amenities, the home features an elevator, green roof, and geothermal heating and cooling, which combine seamlessly with original features like wood paneling and built-in shelves and other storage.

One of the most memorable details of the house is a gorgeous, wood-carved spiraling staircase, but the beauty doesn’t stop there. Outside, gardens landscaped by Barbara Fealy plus a covered wooden walkway and separated covered porch continue harmonious natural living.

The property even comes with a 3,511-square-foot secondary building containing two separate apartments (each with a bathroom), a second garage, an office and workshop, plus storage and a wine cellar. On the market for the first time, the residence located at 2855 SW Rutland Terrace is offered at $1.795 million.

Courtesy of Windermere Stellar