We enjoyed our stay at the Simpsonian. Since we were traveling with a 14 month old, it was especially wonderful to have a crib and high chair! The space also looks just like the photos and does seem fairly bright for a basement apartment. The neighborhood is also nice for people traveling with kids, as it is definitely a family neighborhood and there are two nice parks/playgrounds for kids (Arbor Lodge and Peninsula Park) just a short walk away, as is the Max to downtown. All in all, this is a great home base from which to explore Portland!