The Urban Nature Hideaway with New Handcrafted Wood-Burning Sauna

Welcome to our Urban Nature Hideaway: an artful, cozy apartment tucked into a garden sanctuary in the charming Ardenwald neighborhood of Milwaukie, just outside Portland.

This soulful retreat offers the calm of nature with the ease of city access, located only 10 minutes from downtown Portland and close to public transit, bike paths, parks, cafés and local neighborhood hubs.

Guests often describe the space as peaceful, restorative and even more beautiful in person. Freshflowers, natural materials and thoughtful details create an atmosphere that invites you to slow down and settle in.

The apartment is ideal for solo travelers, couples, friends, business travelers and small families. It comfortably accommodates up to 3 guests (4 depending on age and size).

The light-filled basement apartment is clean, spacious and intentionally arranged to feel easy to live in from the moment you arrive. Guests regularly mention the thoughtful organization, clear instructions, cozy ambiance and simple comforts that make the space feel like home.

The fully equipped mid-century kitchen includes:
• full-size refrigerator
• induction 2-burner cooktop
• toaster oven + toaster
• coffee maker + electric kettle
• cookware, oils, spices, teas, creamer and local coffee

Whether you’re preparing a quick breakfast before exploring Portland or enjoying a quiet evening in, the kitchen is stocked with what you need.

The plant-filled bedroom features a queen-size bed with organic cotton and wool materials. The living room includes a comfortable futon for additional sleeping, with books, natural textures, meditation chairs, a yoga mat and a calming sitting area designed for rest and renewal.

Families with children appreciate the handcrafted wooden toys, books, games and creative play materials available throughout the apartment.

Guests also have access to:
• washer + dryer
• natural cleaning products
• eco-conscious materials and bedding
• self check-in with keypad entry
• free street parking directly in front of the home

One of the newest additions to the property is our handcrafted outdoor wood-burning sauna and cold soak tub, tucked into the backyard garden and available as an optional add-on experience during your stay.

This rustic wellness space was created for deep rest and grounding, especially beautiful on rainy afternoons, cool mornings or quiet evenings under the trees.

Sauna + cold soak sessions are available for an additional fee and include:
• wood bundle
• fire starters
• towels + robes
• optional host guidance for first-time use

Guests are welcome to coordinate a session with us during their stay.

Arrival is part of the experience here. A softly lit stone path winds through the garden to your private entrance in the backyard.

The neighborhood itself is quiet, walkable and lined with mature trees. We’re conveniently located between Sellwood, Woodstock and downtown Milwaukie: all just a short drive away and known for their cafés, restaurants, farmers markets, antique shops, bookstores and local character.

A favorite neighborhood café is also just a pleasant 5-minute walk from the apartment.

Our family lives upstairs in the main home and follows a simple rhythm, with respectful evenings and mornings (quiet hours 10pm–6am). As with many basement apartments, you will hear some muffled movement and voices during our comings and goings.

Our urban micro-farm includes chickens, shy quail, cats and two friendly dogs: Cora, our older dog, and Thea, our younger Golden Retriever who is still learning the rhythms of our household. You may hear moments of excitement or movement from her during transitions of the day.

We also care for two honeybee hives that help pollinate the gardens and surrounding landscape. The hives are tucked away from the apartment entrance and main walking paths. Guests curious about the bees or interested in learning more about beekeeping are welcome to ask questions, and as timing allows, we're happy to offer a closer look inside the hives.

In season, we love to share fresh eggs from our backyard flock, along with herbs, fruits and vegetables from the garden when available.

We maintain a smoke-free environment and deeply appreciate guests who treat the land and space with care and respect.

This is more than a place to stay. It’s a lovingly tended refuge created to restore, inspire and offer a soft place to land while visiting Portland.

We look forward to welcoming you.