5432 NE 32nd Ave, Portland

Oblique is a pair of award-winning, cedar-clad homes by Adret Architecture in Portland’s belovedly vibrant Alberta Arts district. Distinct by design. Private by nature. An urban retreat defined by abundant light, remarkable energy performance, and a seamless connection to the outdoors. Two upper decks, lined with wood and discreetly veiled from the street, catch the day’s first and last light while neighboring homes remain cloaked in shadows; a tempting invite for a tranquil morning coffee or evening aperitivo. The chef’s kitchen is the heart of the home around which all other spaces orbit—the faceted island the centerpiece. Dinner and conversation spill out onto the back patio through an expansive wall of effortless sliding triple-pane glass and set amongst lushly-planted gardens. The vaulted third floor—a singular, flexible great room with infinite possibilities—is primed for entertaining as much as movie night. The central suspended stair ties all the spaces together in one continuous volume. Floor-to-ceiling pocket doors ensure no space or light is wasted and that each of the three bedrooms feels generous beyond its footprint. The baths are a counterpoint, offering a calming, introspective, spa-like environment. Thanks to productive rooftop-solar panels and an exceptionally engineered envelope, the homes have been projected to use 90+% less net energy than a typical newly constructed home! Just beyond the porch steps, the neighborhood offers destination dining, countless cafes, epicurean groceries, galleries, venues, and even the Kennedy School’s soaking pool (free to neighbors) all within a remarkable 2-5 block radius. Three beautiful verdant city parks are not much further. And for frequent flyers, PDX is less than 15 mins away. The project won highest honors for design and sustainability at this year’s Oregon AIA Awards, was recognized by AIASF, and has been featured in Dwell, the Oregonian, Portland Monthly, and showcased at two Portland home tours. [Home Energy Score = 10. HES Report at https://rpt.greenbuildingregistry.com/hes/OR10246489]