I just spent a long weekend in Portland, and stayed in Alex's lovely studio. Her space has a fresh modern design that incorporates some beautiful salvaged materials - the wooden countertop in the kitchen area is from a 100-year old house that was being torn down; the bathroom door is a wonderfully designed metal sliding barn door; the wall behind the bed is shiplap and contrasts nicely with the velvet headboard on the bed. All these details make for an inviting, unique space. The bathroom is updated and the whole space is immaculately clean. The bed has a good, nicely firm mattress and a warm comforter. Big windows form the corner of the space and provide great natural light. There's also a patio and outside space for relaxing when the weather is nice.
When I arrived I found orange juice and water in the refrigerator as well as half and half, coffee creamer, and an herbed cheese. Alex also provided some delicious local coffee, a selection of teas, and crackers to go with the cheese.
The Alberta Street Arts District is a great neighborhood with a variety of restaurants, pubs/bars, shops, and galleries. It's about 15-20 minutes from the downtown area by car, and about 25-35 minutes by bus depending on traffic. There is a bus stop on the corner right across from the studio. I took the bus twice and found it quite easy to use pubic transportation. There's an online trip planner to help you.
I actually did not meet Alex in person, but we emailed back and forth a couple of times during my stay. The location is quiet and peaceful, and very little sound bleeds through from the attached house.
Alex's studio is a real "find," and she is a great host. I highly recommend it for your stay in Portland and would definitely stay there again.