Nate's place was my "home away from home" for a week when I needed a change of scenery. Solo, I worked very comfortably from the breakfast nook by day, explored Portland and its parks in the afternoons, and the Mississippi neighborhood by night. Let's not bury the lede here — Nate's home oozes personality, boasting taste-making interior design with well-placed notes of humor. I. loved. all. of. it. And I walked away with inspiration to retool decor in my own home.
Here's what you can expect:
EXTERIOR: Well-kept and handsome. The walkway greets you with an adorable hand-scratched "I love you" in the cement. The entrance is inviting with a block of plants that affords a touch of privacy.
THE UNIT: When I booked my reservation, I thought I would have the entire home to myself and, on arrival, realized Nate lives in the basement in-law suite. Though never once an issue, I was conscious of my noise level at night and was glad I was there solo. Nate notes it clearly in his description, and I just plain missed it -- that's on me (doh!).
ENTRANCE & LIVING ROOM: The centerpiece of the home. Hooks and a bench by the door to keep your stuff organized and tidy. Art and points-of-interest galore, comfortable seating, and an array of healthy plants. Smart TV available, if needed.
KITCHEN: Bright, sunny, stylish. I scoped out the kitchen supplies on arrival and ordered groceries to be delivered my first morning there. I cooked in for breakfasts and lunches, as the kitchen is well-equipped for stovetop meals (plus toaster and microwave, but no oven).
BED & BATH: The bedroom is decorated minimally with everything you need - a comfortable, sturdy bed, two nightstands, two sconces, and plants to add some life. Likewise, the bathroom down the hall is stylish and well-outfitted with perfect water pressure and storage for your toiletries.
OUTDOOR SPACE: I did not use the outdoor space due to rainy weather and the fairly clipped duration of my stay. The patio is not accessible from the unit; the patio entrance is positioned at the back, adjacent to the sidewalk alongside the house.
COMMUNICATION: Nate has all of your questions answered up front in a document that also includes his neighborhood restaurant and bar suggestions, which my Portland friends confirmed are on-point ("Your host has great taste," they said). He checked in with me before my arrival, was responsive when I needed something during my stay, and capped my stay with a note of thanks and an invitation to return.
And return I will... Nate's home is truly lovely and perfectly positioned as a fun, cozy home base for any Portland adventure. No regrets!