A Portland Triplex Full of Original Details and Fajita the Beta Fish

Name: Cherie
Location: Portland, Oregon

Myself, my boyfriend Nick, and our three cats Charlie, Sue, and Gigi (yes 3 cats, I know we’re crazy), plus our beta fish Fajita live in our one-bedroom apartment in the Laurelhurst neighborhood. We’ve been here for over four years now and it truly feels like home. Our neighborhood is the best; we’re two blocks away from Laurelhurst park and can walk to all our favorite restaurants and bars. Plus, over the last few years some of our best friends have moved in to the other units and we call ourselves jokingly “the compound.”

The building is a mid-century modern triplex and we have the front unit, getting the best windows that fill our space with light all year round. I try to take advantage of the natural light by having lots of plants, but I’ve figured out pretty much the only thing I can keep alive with my black thumb(s) are spider plants – and I’m okay with it. I love that even though it’s been a rental all these years, the owners have tried to keep most everything original. Our shower is covered in pink 4×4 tiles and the bathroom sink is original also. Beautiful hardwoods are throughout the main floor (we have an unfinished basement and attached garage), all the windows, doors and trims are original too. The kitchen has a maroon 4×4 tile counter top and backsplash, with stained wood cabinets that reach the ceiling and large, round, silver hardware.

I try to keep as close as I can to the style of the home with the decor, I’d call it a “mid-century boho” look. I love mixing colors and textures without being cluttered or overwhelming. Some of my favorite things are: my vintage katha quilts from India, a mid-century credenza purchased from a friend, a psychedelic shag rug that I swooned over at my favorite store for months then ended up under the Christmas tree as a gift from Nick, and artwork throughout that’s primarily done by family or friends. Most of our furniture is vintage; I love feeling like I scored when bringing something home and I also like things that have a story. Furniture doesn’t have to be expensive/perfect/shiny/brand new to be beautiful and functional. I hope I can bring this philosophy with me into my new career – I’m also a full time student, going back to school for Interior Design.

Portland has changed an insane amount in the last few years and to have a home with character, in a great neighborhood, next to people you love, AND at an affordable price is practically unheard of. We seriously feel SO lucky to be in this space!

Thanks, Cherie !

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