1739

This late 19th century brick two-flat situated on a rare double-lot was built in 1901 by architect F.W. Thompson for F. Weinder. It was renovated into a single-family home by the current owners, with the project completed in 2012. As you approach the home, however, the façade maintains most of its original attributes.

The porch covering is not the original, but there are hints of the original, such as its carved support on the right-hand side, as well a small rectangular limestone cap immediately above, possibly suggesting an additional second-story porch. A cornice rimming the top of the home has clean horizontal striations with a row of dentils underneath. This classical detail may be an indication that the original porch pillars were wood columns. Limestone banding at each level of the building reinforces the geometric structure. Above the second floor windows is a decorative lintel design. Perched on the left of the roof, the home and front street is watched over by a guardian in the form of a small gargoyle. The base of the building is in limestone, which was often used before 1900. The front door and side light are original. Bay windows on the yard side of the house create a lightness to balance the nearly-touching side wall of the neighboring house.

The interior was in a state of disrepair when the current owners purchased the building, and the rehab process necessitated gutting most of the interior, but there are still some interesting features from the past. Entering the front door, the staircase that would have led to the second-level apartment travels up along the left-hand wall. Hidden underneath the staircase, an original cubbyhole remains. Just past that is the updated bathroom.

The hardwood floors in the living room lead into the combined kitchen and dining room space. At the back of the living room is a see-though fireplace with slate tiles. The eating area has exposed brick reminiscent of the homes age, and it opens up the space by a few inches.

What was once a back-porch staircase is now an enclosed extension of the home leading into the finished basement. The staircase runs alongside the original brick exterior of the house. In the lower level is an active play area and a television/entertainment room.

Upstairs, the original layout of the rooms has been maintained. The landing features a sunny skylight and a bay window. Another angular window wedged into a corner emphasizes how close the building is to its neighbor – the consistency of the gap’s width demonstrates the structural integrity of the construction.

The spacious side yard is like an extra room and is frequently used and enjoyed by this young family. You may stop here today to enjoy some refreshments.