I generally don’t venture too much further west than HWY 217 for work, but when I do it’s because a Rummer has come on the market. Robert Rummer built around 750 Eichler-inspired modern homes in and around Portland between 1959 and 1975. They generally don’t stay on the market for very long if they are good ones and I wanted to make sure I didn’t miss the boat on seeing this one.
Rummers come in all shapes, sizes and conditions. Some lay-outs are fabulous, some are awkward, and well, everything in between. This one has a great floor plan and a wonderful flow to it, something not always evident in these houses. Even the notoriously small bedrooms don’t feel as cramped as they can do. The four bedrooms are split on either side of the covered atrium and the striking living room with its vaulted ceilings, exposed beams and floor-to-ceiling windows. On one side of the fireplace you’ll find the dining room leading to the kitchen and on the other a sizeable bonus room, used here as an office. From both these rooms, sliding doors lead on to the exposed-aggregate patio. It’s a really well-balanced house, offering both semi-open plan living and tucked away rooms when privacy is needed.
Downsides. Not many. It’s a shame the house is positioned towards the back of the lot as it leaves less for a private yard but what there is works well for entertaining. No I think my only wish would have been for an updated kitchen but it doesn’t let the house down as is and it’s such a great size there is plenty to work with in the future.
A lot of credit has to go to the sellers for their choice of interior design, their furnishings and their sense of fun. They’ve filled the house with color, vibrant and uplifting even on a dreary day like today. It’s a house for adults and kids alike, a giant beautiful playhouse if you will. All in all, an absolute gem and priced at $430,000. Well worth the drive and well worth a visit from you if you are in the market for a lovely example of a Rummer.
Bricks and Mortar 