Our Visitors
Rather than ask visitors to describe their experience at Vivienda Iluminada, we prefer to share our visitors’ stories, to inspire greater community connection.*
*Stories are shared with permission; details may be altered for privacy.
I visited Vivienda Iluminada because…
Sam
“This ADU sanctuary offered me a quiet respite from which to spend time in PDX to learn from seasoned professionals about the history of redlining and gentrification as it informs current housing reform and development. I work for a non-profit without a large travel budget – this guest house was the perfect way to save money, ‘shop local’, and more deeply engage in this beautiful community and city.”
O.C.
My landlord was threatening to evict me without just cause and I hadn’t been able to eat properly or sleep for a month. My mentor connected me to VIvi and I am so grateful to have a place to take a moment to collect myself while finalizing moving plans. My time at Vivi allowed me to sleep through the night and have somewhere calm to land after work. The garden is spectacular and I was greeted every morning by Earl the bird. I was delighted to wake up without dread and will forever be thankful that spaces like this exist, that genuinely want to help others without expectation. These are values I hope shine through me as well.
Herbert
We came for my sister’s graduation from PSU and I believe it was a perfect adventure. Thank you for helping us make this happen! Our short stay was amazing! It had everything we needed to make us feel right at home. Very snug. We are grateful for this beautiful place to be opened to us. There was no worry at all during our stay. We even enjoyed Earl the Bird tapping on the window each morning to get each day started.
Features:
Amenities
Vivienda Iluminada features free, reliable WiFi. The studio kitchen has a medium sized refrigerator, dish drainer, electric stove/oven, electric kettle, toaster and coffee press. Ironing board and iron is stored behind the refrigerator.
The bathroom has a shower/tub combo, hair dryer, ample toiletries, hair care and spa bathing supplies.
The living area has a dining table for two, loveseat sleeper with twin mattress, full length mirror, a large ottoman with storage, small ottoman, smart TV, books, puzzles and games, and coat & shoe rack with umbrella.
The sleeping area has a queen size bed with extra bedding and pillows. The spacious closet stores a three-panel wooden room divider than can be used for additional privacy. Also in the closet is a yoga matt, two guest robes, cubbies and hangers, a laundry basket, and a small pack-and-play with bedding.
The outdoor area has a short deck with a bistro table, chairs and chaise lounge. Visitors are welcome to enjoy the backyard, lawn furniture or partake of any fruit, herbs or vegetables growing in the gardens.
Attractions & Services
We are located in the heart of Montavilla, between the two business districts on Stark and Glisan streets. Mt Tabor Park and Montavilla Park are within walking distance.
Laundromat with credit card and coin-operated functionality within three blocks. Pharmacy and grocery are located within a half mile. East Portland Community Center is two miles away and has a swimming pool and exercise facilities; a household pass is available for use by guests.
Located between two bike & scooter docking stations. TriMet bus routes 20, 19 and 15 are within 2-4 blocks and can get you across town in under 30 minutes. Portland International Airport is ten miles away.
FAQs
While we love all kinds of animals and you’ll see many birds, squirrels, and possibly raccoons, opossums and coyote in the vicinity of our neighborhood, pets are not allowed at VIvi to limit allergen exposure for guests.
Vivienda Iluminada is not for rent. It is not a vacation rental, and you won’t find it listed on commercial short term rental sites.
You are likely reading this because the caretakers shared this website with you. Please get in touch with us about your intended visit via the Contact Us page. Upon confirmation of your stay, we will share expectations for access, upkeep and care during a visit.
Want to support
Vivienda Iluminada?
If you’re interested in contributing to our vision for community, we welcome your ideas! Let us know what you have in mind through our Contact Us page.
Contribute to cleaning and maintenance costs for Vivienda Iluminada. Note, Vivienda Iluminada does not operate as a nonprofit organization, so donations are not tax deductible. 🙏🏼
