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mma Austin House – 49 Briarwood Road, Lake Oswego
Price: $1,798,000
In 1910, Portland socialite Emma Austin commissioned architect Joseph Jacobberger to build a vacation retreat on what was then called Sucker Lake. The Craftsman‑style stone house, now a landmark, helped spark the area’s transition from an industrial hub to a sought‑after residential enclave.
Preservation specialist John McCulloch rescued the property from demolition in the early 2000s. He reinforced the foundation, protected original windows, fixtures, and hardware, and installed seismic and energy‑efficient upgrades. The result is a meticulously restored home that retains its historic character while meeting modern standards.
The 3,074‑sq‑ft, two‑story residence sits on a 1.04‑acre lot featuring a small creek, restored gardens, and a secret garden accessed via stone paths and hand‑laid river rock. A lodge‑style porch with classic Craftsman trapezoidal pillars frames the front. Inside, original arched French doors flank a dramatic stone‑and‑brick fireplace, opening onto an outdoor living area.
The kitchen boasts marble countertops, a large island, and a professional Zline range with a pot filler. The primary suite on the upper level includes a fireplace, spa‑style bathroom with heated floors, soaking tub, and marble finishes. Two additional bedrooms occupy the second floor, and a full‑height basement houses a wine cellar.
The property offers potential for a self‑contained accessory dwelling unit (ADU) above the garage, making it attractive to families, garden lovers, and design‑savvy buyers. The large lot, creek, and proximity to Tryon Creek State Natural Area provide ample outdoor recreation.
McCulloch’s 2020 restoration earned recognition from the Lake Oswego Preservation Society. The project also added a new garage and stone retaining walls that match the original masonry. A gazebo and handcrafted stone fountain enhance the fairytale ambiance.
Architect William J. Hawkins III praised the home in “Classic Houses of Portland, Oregon, 1850‑1950,” calling it “timeless” and “one of the finest bungalow‑style houses.” He highlighted the massive stone columns and Japanese‑inspired beams extending to wide eaves.
The Emma Austin House remains a prime example of Lake Oswego’s evolution from pig‑iron production in the 1860s to one of Oregon’s most beautiful and expensive communities. It is now available for purchase, offering a blend of historic charm, modern amenities, and natural beauty.
