Dream House | An off-the-grid eco home in Portland

Here is an isolated dream house, nestled in the picturesque Rio Grande Valley, in west Portland. For most of the year, because of rainfall, it is only accessible by a bamboo raft ride across the river and a seven-minute walk to the actual house.

It’s a densely forested property with a profound connection to nature, surrounded by flocks of bird life, including parrots and egrets. No words can adequately describe the sight of a private, wondrous waterfall feeding the rock swimming pool at its base. 

Then there is your very own geological marvel of a walk-in spring-fed cave, providing rejuvenating mineral-rich bath therapy. The refreshing river is the place to swim and play without inhibitions, surrounded by beautiful flora. 

Imagine, highly unusual twin-heated bathtubs on the banks of the scenic river, lit underneath by a wood fire, enabling a therapeutic, herbal spa sensory experience.

Partake in an immersive culinary experience by literally dining directly in the river, with the flowing water bathing one's very feet. In addition, you can soak in a separate stone-built restorative hot tub right by the house, also heated by a wood fire. A fire pit provides a ‘campfire effect’ for everyone to cuddle by.

The home’s 2,000 square feet with peach-painted walls in its jungle-like green setting is configured with four tranquil bedrooms and four bathrooms (two with outdoor showers). A country-style kitchen, relaxation areas, and an open-air balcony are included. Fixtures and finishes include wood floors upstairs and concrete downstairs; river stone-clad bathroom shower walls; and vessel sink vanities made of cedar wood.

Construction of the ecological house has just been completed, taking five months. It is 100-per cent solar-powered, and gets its water for domestic use from one of the several springs on the property.

For the couple who live here, this is an adventurous escape from reality. 

Barry Rattray is a dream house designer and builder. Email feedback to barryrattray1@hotmail.com and lifestyle@gleanerjm.com.