Selling At $4.9 Million! Circa 1887 Gilded Age Markle–Pittock House in Portland, Oregon

1816 SW Hawthorne Ter, Portland, OR 97201

Perched high above Portland’s skyline in the city’s coveted West Hills, this extraordinary estate embodies the best of timeless architecture and refined modern living. With panoramic views stretching across downtown Portland, the Willamette River, and the distant majesty of Mt. Hood, this property stands as one of the city’s most distinguished homes for sale. Set on 1.17 acres of manicured gardens within a private, gated compound, this nearly 10,000-square-foot residence offers both historic prestige and the comfort of contemporary luxury—an exceptional opportunity in the Portland real estate market.

Originally constructed in 1887 by JJ McCaffrey and reimagined in 1928 by the renowned architectural firm Jacobberger & Smith, this estate tells a story of elegance, craftsmanship, and evolution. The home’s design draws upon the opulence of the Gilded Age, yet every update has been made with care to ensure it meets the expectations of modern living. From the moment you enter the property, it’s clear that this is no ordinary house—it’s a masterpiece that seamlessly blends history, architecture, and comfort into one breathtaking experience.

The home’s exterior makes a commanding impression with its stately proportions and graceful lines. Inside, a symphony of details awaits: intricate crown moldings, original stained-glass windows, and gleaming wood floors that have been lovingly preserved. Richly carved built-ins, elegant fireplaces, and ornate trim create an atmosphere that feels both grand and inviting. The architecture is a celebration of artistry, where every corner reveals a story, and every surface reflects a level of craftsmanship rarely seen today.

While deeply rooted in history, the estate is equally designed for the way people live now. Lavish formal rooms offer generous space for entertaining, while comfortable everyday living areas flow naturally throughout the home. The scale of each room reflects the grandeur of its era, but the design maintains a sense of warmth and intimacy that makes it feel immediately like home. Whether hosting elegant dinner parties, family gatherings, or quiet evenings by the fire, this property adapts effortlessly to every occasion.

Across its 9,800-plus square feet of interior living space, the main residence includes six bedrooms and more than five full baths, each designed with a balance of luxury and livability. The bedrooms offer privacy and elegance, enhanced by thoughtful details such as built-in storage, architectural nooks, and large windows that frame sweeping views of Portland’s skyline and the natural landscape beyond. The bathrooms have been tastefully updated with modern finishes while maintaining a classic sensibility, ensuring that the home’s period character remains intact.

Beyond the main house, the estate includes two additional residences that extend its versatility and appeal. The two-bedroom, one-bath guest house is perched to take advantage of the property’s best vistas, offering single-level living and the same attention to detail found in the primary home. It’s an ideal retreat for guests, extended family, or even as a private rental for those interested in generating income from their real estate investment.

The carriage house adds yet another dimension to the property’s flexibility. Featuring a full kitchen, one bedroom, and one bath, it serves as a perfect space for staff quarters, a studio, or a private home office. With its own entrance, it offers independence while maintaining proximity to the main estate. These secondary residences create opportunities for multigenerational living, professional use, or luxurious guest accommodations—all within the privacy of the gated grounds.

Outdoor living is every bit as impressive as the interior. The estate’s gardens are a work of art in themselves, a blend of structure and serenity that invites both relaxation and recreation. A full-sized tennis court provides resort-level amenities right at home, while the Italian porcelain patio surrounding the swimming pool adds a touch of Mediterranean glamour. The pool area becomes a natural gathering place in warmer months, offering panoramic views that are simply unmatched. Mature trees and landscaped gardens surround the property, creating an atmosphere of peace and privacy that feels worlds away from the bustle of city life, yet the home is just minutes from downtown Portland.

A cobblestone driveway winds gracefully through the grounds, leading to a gated entrance that enhances both the sense of security and exclusivity. The six-car garage ensures ample space for vehicles and storage, a rare feature for an estate of this age and style. These thoughtful amenities reflect the home’s ability to honor its historic past while embracing the expectations of modern luxury.

Despite its size and grandeur, the home maintains a feeling of warmth and comfort that makes it entirely livable. Each space has been curated for beauty and function alike. From the grand entertaining rooms to the quiet private quarters, from the sunlit breakfast areas to the shaded verandas overlooking the city, the house feels as much like a sanctuary as it does a showpiece. This is a property designed not only to impress but also to inspire a sense of belonging.

Location adds yet another layer of desirability. The West Hills have long been one of Portland’s most prestigious and sought-after neighborhoods, known for its combination of natural beauty, proximity to downtown, and serene, tree-lined streets. Residents enjoy easy access to NW 23rd Avenue’s boutiques and dining, top-rated schools, major hospitals, scenic hiking trails, and convenient freeway connections. Few homes for sale in the region can offer such a balance of privacy and accessibility—where urban energy meets residential tranquility in perfect harmony.

For a realtor presenting this property, the story practically tells itself. This is more than a house—it’s a rare architectural legacy that has been lovingly preserved for future generations. In a city celebrated for its creativity and culture, this estate stands as a testament to Portland’s historical depth and enduring elegance. It’s a home for those who appreciate the artistry of the past but demand the sophistication of the present, a place where heritage and modernity coexist beautifully.

Opportunities like this seldom appear on the market. The estate’s size, pedigree, and location make it one of the most distinctive homes currently listed for sale in Portland. Whether envisioned as a family residence, an entertainer’s dream, or a private retreat, it offers endless possibilities. The combination of historical authenticity, architectural excellence, and luxurious amenities ensures that this home will continue to be admired for generations to come.

To own this estate is to own a piece of Portland’s history—one reimagined for today’s most discerning homeowner. From its grand halls and manicured gardens to its panoramic views and private setting, every detail has been designed to elevate daily living into something truly extraordinary. It’s not just real estate; it’s an experience, a legacy, and a lifestyle—an enduring masterpiece where the best of the past meets the promise of the future.

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