Architecture Wednesday: Modernist Portland Chalet

The Grube Residence could perhaps be overlooked at first glance because of its modest presence, but this Germanic Chalet is an important architectural work to be carefully studied. The home was sited and designed to take full advantage of the beautifully forested, sloped setting while nestling lightly into nature’s envelope of firs and rhododendrons. A founding partner of Portland’s Yost Grube Hall Architecture, Grube designed a handful of homes alone and in collaboration with the acclaimed William Fletcher but this home was designed by Grube as a labor of love for his family and sits in between former partner Richard Campbell and Grube’s 1966 twin-like family homes, creating a triad of architectural wonders in a row.

The home opens skyward with each floor cantilevering out beyond its impressive concrete foundation and is framed by the forest around it. Tongue and groove cedar siding and a metal roof add to its distinctive look and protect the home from the elements. Use of native materials brings the outside in and make this creative retreat cozy, warm and inviting. Clear fir is used extensively throughout on custom windows, casework, built-ins, tray ceiling frames, doors and windows and red oak clads the flooring. Walls of glass flood the home with private forest views and natural light all day and dimmable lighting controls the ambience at night. A custom architectural floating oak stairwell connects the 3 levels.

This home is an inspiring peaceful sanctuary for relishing in natures beauty and life’s richest experiences. A generational work of architecture—designed not only as shelter but as a steward of the natural environment, creating balance and harmony both inside and out.

There are three bedrooms and three bathrooms in just over 2400 square feet in Portland for just $1.3M.

Dwell