In the 1960s and 70s, Rummer homes were built as an attainable version of high-design architecture. At the time, they sold for around $26,000. Today, many of those same homes command prices well over $1 million.
That kind of appreciation isn’t just about the Portland market. It reflects something more fundamental: these homes were designed differently—and in many ways, better—than what came after.
At a time when much of today’s housing prioritizes size, volume, and resale trends, Rummer homes offer a reminder that thoughtful design, not square footage, is what ultimately drives long-term value.
In this podcast interview, we chatted with Aubrey McCormick of Rummer Development, who is carrying on Robert Rummer's legacy.
[Podcast] Robert Rummer's Legacy of Portland Mid-Century Homes
The Design Philosophy That Still Holds Up
Robert Rummer's homes were inspired by California Eichler designs but adapted for the Pacific Northwest. What makes them stand out isn’t just their aesthetic—it’s how they shape everyday living.
From the moment you enter one of these homes, the experience feels different. Instead of stepping into a closed-off interior, you’re often greeted by an atrium—an outdoor space at the heart of the home. It immediately blurs the line between inside and outside, creating a sense of openness that’s rare in traditional construction.
That connection to the outdoors carries throughout the home. Large windows, thoughtful sightlines, and natural light make even modest square footage feel expansive. It’s a design approach that’s especially powerful in Portland, where access to daylight and nature plays such an important role in how a home feels year-round.
Why Smaller Homes Can Feel Better
One of the most surprising things for homeowners encountering a Rummer for the first time is how large the home feels—despite being relatively modest in size.
Most Rummer homes fall under 3,000 square feet, yet they often feel more livable than homes twice that size. That’s not an accident.
Instead of flattening everything into one open space, these homes balance connection and separation. Living areas, kitchens, and private spaces are thoughtfully arranged so that people can gather or retreat as needed. The result is a home that supports real life.
This becomes especially important when homeowners begin to rethink what they actually need from their space. Many assume they need more square footage, when what they really need is a better layout.
Homes Designed for Real Life
Another reason these homes continue to resonate today is how well they support long-term living.
Single-level layouts make them naturally suited for aging in place. At the same time, their flexible floor plans allow for multi-generational living in ways that feel intentional rather than crowded.
Read more: Aging in Place Remodeling: Strategic Upgrades for Your Home
In one case, three generations lived comfortably under one roof in a roughly 3,000 square foot Rummer—without expanding the home.
That kind of efficiency challenges a common assumption in remodeling: that adding more space is the only solution. Often, rethinking how space is used can be far more effective.
What Happens When Mid-Century Homes Are Renovated
While the underlying design has stood the test of time, many original Rummer homes now require updates. Decades-old materials, outdated systems, and evolving lifestyle needs all play a role.
The challenge—and opportunity—lies in how those updates are handled.
The most successful renovations don’t try to reinvent the home. Instead, they respect the original design while adapting it for modern living. That might mean slightly larger bedrooms, improved insulation, updated kitchens, or more durable materials—but always with an eye toward preserving what made the home special in the first place.
It’s a balance that applies to any classic home: modernize what’s necessary, but don’t lose the intent behind the architecture.
A Shift Toward Intentional Living
Perhaps the most important lesson from Rummer homes isn’t about style—it’s about priorities.
Modern homes often equate comfort with size: bigger bedrooms, larger kitchens, more square footage overall. But Rummer’s approach suggests something different. Bedrooms were intentionally smaller because they weren’t meant to be the primary living space. Instead, the home centered around shared areas—places for connection, light, and daily life.
That philosophy feels increasingly relevant today, especially as homeowners begin to question whether more space actually leads to better living.
In many cases, it doesn’t.
What does make a difference is how a home is designed: how it brings in light, how it connects to its surroundings, and how it supports the way people actually live.
Why Classic Home Design Matters Today
For Portland homeowners considering a remodel—especially of an older or architecturally distinct home—there’s a clear takeaway:
You don’t necessarily need a bigger home. You need a better one.
Rummer homes continue to increase in value not only because they’re rare, but also because they get the fundamentals right. They prioritize experience over excess, design over size, and long-term livability over short-term trends.
Those same principles can—and should—guide any thoughtful remodeling project.
Remodeling Classic Homes | FAQs
How do you modernize an older home without losing its character?
The key is to identify what makes the home unique—its layout, materials, or architectural features—and preserve those elements while updating systems and finishes. Focus on improving performance (insulation, windows, mechanical systems) without changing the core design language.
Read more: Mid-Century Modern Home Remodel Guide
Is it better to renovate or rebuild an older home?
It depends on the condition of the home and its architectural value. Homes with strong design foundations are often worth renovating, even if the updates are extensive. Rebuilding may make sense if structural issues are severe or the layout cannot be adapted to modern needs.
Read more: What to Know About Remodeling Old Homes in Portland
Why do older homes often feel better than new construction?
Many older homes were designed with more intention around light, proportion, and livability. Features like natural light, defined spaces, and connection to the outdoors can make them feel more comfortable—even if they are smaller than newer homes.
What should you prioritize first in a home renovation?
Start with structural and performance upgrades: foundation, roofing, insulation, and mechanical systems. Once those are addressed, you can focus on layout improvements and aesthetic upgrades like kitchens, bathrooms, and finishes.
Can you make a smaller home feel bigger without adding square footage?
Yes. Improving sightlines, increasing natural light, refining the layout, and reducing visual clutter can dramatically change how a home feels. In many cases, these changes are more impactful than adding square footage.
Is multi-generational living possible without expanding a home?
In many cases, yes. Thoughtful layout changes—such as creating separate zones, adding flexible spaces, or improving circulation—can allow multiple generations to live comfortably without a major addition.
