The quick take: just stay here! This lovely little guesthouse rides a beautiful line between raw minimalism and seamless luxury, and between being in the middle of one of Portland’s coolest neighborhoods and a tranquil oasis. It’s a great hideaway for a single person or a happy couple. Joe somehow seems to have thought through it all, so that nothing is obtrusive yet everything you need is just where you expect it to be. The shower alone—like a rushing waterfall in a Zen spa—is worth it. It also somehow smells amazing in the guesthouse, as if fresh wood had been installed days ago! Another joy was sitting behind the screen, ostensibly working, and watching all the people walk by on the weekend. (It’s not a busy street but there are people around walking with dogs or to the nearby shops.) Joe himself was also warm, thoughtful and easy-going in all communication so I guess no surprise that this transferred to the design. One of the best guesthouses I’ve stayed at in Portland, and I’ve stayed at many.