Read article : HOME PROFILE: A garden view from an Old Town home - News - Tri-Town Transcript
"Charming" is the essence of this Antique built in 1860 just before the Civil War in the heart of Old Town — imagine if those walls could talk. So is picturesque, as this classic white gem with, yes, black shutters and the sweetest front porch has views of the most impressive gardens in town. The property overlooks the beautifully manicured grounds and gorgeous gardens of the Jeremiah Lee Mansion.
By Barbara Forster / GateHouse Media
ADDRESS: 20 Summer St., Marblehead
BEDROOMS: 3
BATHROOMS: 2 full
LIVING SPACE: 1,629 sq. ft.
PRICE: $660,000
"Charming" is the essence of this Antique built in 1860 just before the Civil War in the heart of Old Town — imagine if those walls could talk. So is picturesque, as this classic white gem with, yes, black shutters and the sweetest front porch has views of the most impressive gardens in town. The property overlooks the beautifully manicured grounds and gorgeous gardens of the Jeremiah Lee Mansion.
Oh, living comfortably in the 21st Century, however, is another integral aspect of this surprisingly spacious home. Modern amenities are everywhere and, are seamlessly incorporated.
Gleaming hardwood flooring begins at the front door and continues throughout the house — a lovely cohesive element that also highlights numerous period details like the decoratively carved newel post and staircase with lavishing turned spindles and detailed railing. Detailed door frames with bulls eye trim and a decorated (working) radiator are other eye-catching features (no pun intended). On a practical note, the entry way easily handles a hall table.
Filled with natural light, the kitchen is large enough to handle seating for up to four. Large windows — these are six-over-six — and a chair rail ratchet up the charm factor. Mini subway tiles on the backsplash are a classic touch.
By the way, a closet with a period four-panel wood door in the hallway has a surprise inside: an exposed brick wall.
A very open and very big living-dining room that runs front-to-back is filled with special features such as the fireplace. This brick-front floor-to-ceiling beauty has a raised hearth plus a decorative niche. Decorated radiators — the two here are even taller than the one in the foyer — are at each end of the room. Four six-over-six windows are additional period-style gems.
One end of the room with a delightful bow window with a wide windowsill that has the Lee gardens as a backdrop is ideal as a dining area. This expandable space handles it all from an intimate repast to a celebratory event for large groups.
The best part of the lush view, of course, is that it is maintenance free — for you. The Lee Mansion’s crew keeps it looking perfect all year round.
Now let’s go up
On the way to the second floor, delightful period features like detailed bump boards throughout the stairwell, prettily turned spindles in the banister and a window in the landing with colorful leaded glass panes keep the charm factor on high. So do beautiful knotty pine floor boards on this level, which has excellent ceiling height.
The large master bedroom that can accommodate a king-size bed has a long lighted closet and direct access to a full bathroom with a fully tiled tub/shower combination. This tub is cast iron and built-in, too. With its six-over-six window, this room is light and bright.
Of the two remaining bedrooms on this level, one is very large. Fitting in a queen or even a king-size bed is easy. The third one works well as a nursery, toddler room or makes a wonderful office.
Exposed brick — this is the chimney — in the hall adds another touch of character. And, let’s not forget that radiators are in each room and that the house has a pull-down attic.
So much more
The fully finished lower level, which is practically the footprint of the house, is exceptional. A long exposed brick wall (this is really the back side of the fireplace and we’ll get there in a moment) is an eye-catching feature in a corridor that leads to two generously sized rooms. One is a very large family room that has a brick-front fireplace with a wood-stove insert plus a bow window that overlooks the Lee Mansion gardens.
A spacious bathroom with a glass-enclosed corner shower and laundry facilities (full-size stackable washer and dryer) is also on this level.
In addition to direct street access, this level leads to the huge yard with a brick pathway and a great-looking gravel/paver patio. Oh, this is large, too.
"Regulation" basement space that is the width of the house (this means there is lots of it) is also included.
Contact Lynne Breed of Harborside Sotheby’s International Realty at 781-608-8066 or 781-631-8800 or by email: lynne.breed@sothebysrealty.com
