Editor’s Note: Welcome to Portland Monthly’s “Property Watch” column, where we take regular looks at interesting homes on the market in Portland’s super-competitive real estate market (with periodic ventures to the burbs and points beyond, for good measure). This week: A sweet South Tabor bungalow with a yard that lives large. Got a home you think would work for this column? Get in touch at [email protected].

With so many small-scale homes being targets for teardown, here’s a survivor: a 1924 cottage in the South Tabor neighborhood, just north of Powell. Design-minded updates make it ready for move-in, starting with the new exterior paint job and front yard landscaping, which combine a black façade with crushed gravel, steel-framed garden beds, and low-maintenance plantings, conjuring a Joshua Tree feel.

That crisp black-and-white scheme is carried from outside to in, where it’s joined by wood accents and durable wood-toned laminate flooring. The entry opens into the living room, located at the center of the plan and anchored by a black brick fireplace bookended with open shelves. Two wall-mounted storage units, including shelves for the television and display, and a bench by the front door, make the most of the petite floor space. 

The nearby bathroom feels spacious with its walk-in shower, and stays on theme with black hex floor tile, white tile walls, and a wood-wrapped, wall-hung vanity. The bedroom is tucked behind a sliding barn door, and comes complete with built-in wardrobe and a vanity area.

The backyard is accessed through the galley kitchen—there, you'll find white cabinets, black quartz counters, and stainless-steel appliances with a gunmetal finish—and the rear porch is protected by a privacy screen, stained black to match the house.

There are several spots to note in the nice-sized yard, from the covered outdoor kitchen with its own storage and pergola for lounging to a dedicated firepit area along the rear fence. A 189-square-foot outbuilding was finished into a great work-from-home studio; or it can be a second bedroom. It has salvaged wood floors, tall ceilings, a double-glass door to let in light, and a nice big window looking out into the landscaped yard, offering a peaceful view for a little respite during the workday.

Listing Fast Facts:

Address: 6010 SE Haig St, Portland, OR 97206
Size: 1,017 square feet, includes the unfinished basement w/laundry and finished outbuilding; 2 bed/1 bath 
List Date: 12/1/2021 
List Price: $419,900
Listing Agents: Michelle McCabe and Allie Seifert, Windermere Realty Trust

Melissa Dalton is a freelance writer who has focused on Pacific Northwest design and lifestyle since 2008. She is based in Portland, Oregon. Contact Dalton here.