One of his designs is a 3,205-square-foot Tudor-style home. Built in 2007, the home features a fake, weather-resistant thatched roof and cobblestone walkways that evoke a true Middle-earth vibe. The place landed on the market about a month ago for $1.25 million.
The developers had a dream to build this "Lord of the Rings" community," said Shanda L. Harris of Keller Williams Realty Central Oregon." This is the first project they've done. In the cul-de-sac, there will be a dragon fountain."
Unfortunately, the economic collapse of 2008 put plans to build this fanciful community on hold. Eight houses were completed at the Ring Bearer's Court, but this is the only one that actually leans toward the Lord of the Rings legend.
We're sorry, fellow Hobbits, but it's too late to snap up this Ring-wearing home.
"One offer has been received," Harris reports." I have a lot of interest. I'm trying to find fans of The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit. I have some people from out of town - [a] 'I want to live in a storybook' kind of thing."
The playful house, with three bedrooms and 2.5 baths, is in its third owner.
"The house is very well built and has energy-efficient features," Harris says, citing the built-in ventilation system and efficient gas HVAC system." My seller said, 'We feel we are the caretakers of something really special.'"
The house has many unique touches - a green hand-painted vine motif on the exterior; hand-carved marble Celtic butterflies in the fireplace, and a Hobbit hole tucked into the landscape.
The entire house is flooded with natural light thanks to the open 25-foot cathedral ceilings.
Other high-end features of this whimsical space include a custom walk-in closet; Japanese cypress soaking tub; and tile in marble or river stone. The kitchen boasts a large island and Viking stove, perfect for entertaining guests or a busy home cook.
While Tudor architecture often feels overwhelming, this house is spacious. It features a main floor suite on the main floor, as well as a den/office. Two bonus rooms and a workout space are located upstairs.
The charming atmosphere really drives the allure of this home.
"It has a woodland wonderland-like feel to it," Harris says." It's a little oasis in the middle of the city."
Bend has long attracted visitors and residents with a penchant for outdoor recreation - mountain biking, hiking, skiing, whitewater rafting and exploring caves.
"It's like the ideal life," Harris says." We have more than 300 days of sunshine. But a 20-minute walk down the street and you can be skiing in the mountains in the winter."
