It was during a trip to Mexico that Michael Pratt and Reta Larson, both artists, were struck by the beauty of handcrafted tile, after which they returned home and learned how to make it from their Southeast Portland basement. That enterprise evolved into Pratt & Larson, a nationally recognized ceramic tile manufacturer known for its curated shapes and glazes.  

Less known is that in 1989, the couple bought this little cabin and guest house in Rhododendron and fixed it up, applying their eye to its many rooms. They sold the property in 2013, but the next owner kept it largely intact, thoughtfully adding a second bathroom and creating a desirable short-term rental. It was recently on the market again, this time for only six days before going pending, but we couldn’t resist asking for a peek inside to relish the eye candy.  

For starters, the distinct exterior isn't a superficial paint job but a treatment to emphasize the cabin’s cordwood construction. Local lore has it that the home was built in 1920 by two Alaskan prospectors, and is the only such constructed cabin in the area. Cordwood construction is a natural building method in which short logs are stacked and the space between them filled with insulation and mortar. Walls can be anywhere from eight to 24 inches thick, and the log ends protrude from the surface just the slightest bit.  

Inside, classic cabin features are accented by artisanal tile, of course, and a medley of vintage and modern furniture, all of which were included in the sale. From the massive river rock fireplace, exposed timber logs, and stick-built staircase railing to the Dutch entry door, it’s like a storybook come to life.

Just off the dining area, find the cozy kitchen with bespoke tile on the counters, the backsplash, lining the sink, and covering the stove’s exhaust hood. The new bathroom comes complete with soaking tub set before the window, more gorgeous tile on the wainscot and floor, and patinaed brass fixtures. There’s a bedroom in the upstairs loft and additional quarters connected by the deck. In the guest cottage, a second bedroom has wood wainscot inset with forest animal carvings and a bathroom wrapped in more Pratt & Larson tile.

While there’s so much charm inside, the setting is equally stunning. It doesn’t get much better than a huge deck and firepit perched right along the Sandy River, surrounded by mature forest and the sound of the rushing water. Rumor has it the new owners will continue to rent this out as a popular Airbnb, now named the Little Dottie, so we can all enjoy the fairy-tale life for a weekend.

Listing Fast Facts 

• Address: 67382 E Roaring River Rd, Rhododendron, OR 97049
• Size: 1,264 square feet/2 bedroom/2 bath 
• List Date: 4/25/2024 
  
• List Price: $620,000 
• Listing Agent: Hope Beraka, Think Real Estate

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. 

Editor’s Note: Portland Monthly’s “Property Watch” column takes a weekly look at an interesting home in Portland’s real estate market (with periodic ventures to the burbs and points beyond, for good measure). Got a home you think would work for this column? Get in touch at [email protected].