Description

This stunning 1905 Tudor Revival was designed by John Owens for Elizabeth Strawbridge of the storied Strawbridge family. Situated on a manicured 3/4-acre lot in the heart of Chestnut Hill, this property includes 5 spacious bedrooms and 3-1/2 baths, spanning approximately 5,250 square feet. The first floor of the home welcomes you into a grand entry foyer showcasing spectacular original leaded glass details, chestnut millwork, and the lower Inglenook sitting area complete with gas fireplace. To the left sits a living room with custom built-ins and lighting. Beyond the living room is the converted all-season sunroom with heated floors. To the left of the front door sits the formal dining room with ample room for entertaining. The expansive eat-in kitchen includes custom cabinetry, an oversized banquette, as well as a desk and pantry area. The stainless steel appliance suite includes a gas range in addition to twin dishwashers, one hidden, for ultimate convenience. Toward the back of the home is a thoughtfully-designed mudroom and laundry area, leading out to the breathtaking backyard and large flagstone patio. The kitchen and mudroom floors are heated for year-round comfort. An updated half bath off the kitchen completes this floor. On the second floor, two bedrooms share an updated Jack-and-Jill bathroom with tub and shower. The third bedroom is currently used as a large office with the fourth bedroom serving as a guest or au pair suite with an ensuite bath with double-vanity in white marble. Off this bedroom is a second floor outdoor covered porch with sweeping views of the manicured backyard. The entire third floor is a sumptuous primary retreat. The bedroom spans half of the floor with an ensuite bath, featuring an oversized soaking tub, a neo-angle glass shower with bench, a double vanity, a water closet, and heated floors. The remainder of the third floor is shared by a large dressing room and a bonus room, currently used as a gym with an infrared sauna. The multi-year renovation and restoration was undertaken with meticulous attention to preserving original details while updating to current standards. The home stands move-in ready for its next steward. Thoughtful upgrades include 53 Pella Architect Series windows, while the original leaded-glass windows were spared. Two working fireplaces are highlighted in the living areas (one converted to gas). All electrical and plumbing have been upgraded or replaced, in addition to an ultra-high-efficiency Lochnivar boiler providing heat and unlimited hot water while maintaining low heating costs, plus new central high velocity forced air. An approximately 1,800 square-foot basement sits below, with custom workbenches, shelving and ample storage for hidden treasures. Stepping outside, you will discover a garden oasis covering the ¾ acre lot, sitting on one of the most coveted streets in Chestnut Hill. The incredible landscape design features mature native plantings, a large flagstone patio, and black-metal fencing (and electric entry gate) surrounding the entire property. Wiring for a PetSafe invisible fence system is also in place for any furry friends. An oversized 2-car detached garage, wired for 15A electric-car charging, sits at the back of the lot, with additional parking space for up to 5 vehicles. Out front is a beautiful pond and fountain. The current owners have taken great pride in this stunning property, restoring it to its original elegance and making thoughtful upgrades with no expense spared. It stands as a truly remarkable example of the historic splendor of Chestnut Hill, with all the modern conveniences and updates one might desire in a home. Just a short walk to all of the amenities along Germantown Avenue and steps to The Philadelphia Cricket Club, Springside Chestnut Hill Academy, and Pastorius Park.