DISTINCTIVE AND GRACIOUS 

Built in 1800.

4 stories. Brick.

Architectural style: Victorian

0.04 acre lot. 1,718 sq.ft. lot dim.

Decorative brackets adorn the door and window lintels of this handsome Italianate residence located on the southeast corner of Duke and South Saint Asaph Streets. Incised patterns, detailed scrollwork and exceptional panel reveals add to the elegance of this entry that includes a fixed transom luring glorious light into a welcoming hall. Framing boxwood, skimmia, camellia, perennials and yew as well as handsome wrought iron window protectors contribute further to the imposing façade where window lintels decrease in decorative detail as they near the dentil eave cornice.

Twelve-foot ceilings increase the air of grandeur in this sophisticated residence where ceiling medallions top crystal chandeliers in the hall and formal rooms;  period wood floors and tall windows add to the enveloping warmth; and detailed woodwork throughout reinforces the harmonious atmosphere. Double fireplaces with matching mantels and mirrors above are banked by floor-to-ceiling arched display shelves with cabinets below while tall windows and French doors to the garden encourage the presence of natural light. With its deep expanse and two fireplaces, the main room is visually divided in half, yet emits the special aura of gracious entertaining space. Beyond is the kitchen where Neff cabinets, stainless appliances and granite counters create an efficient kitchen with generous storage. A Dutch door brings more light into the kitchen and adds an additional access to the garden. A powder room with fan light view of historic Saint Asaph Street completes this level.

A substantial newell post anchors the stair where ornate spandrels and raised panels decorate the stairwell while ascending chair rail balances the stair banister. At the first landing, split doors open to a secluded office/dressing room. One wall is lined with closets and a window looks out to the immaculately tended garden. Rising to the second level, the landing opens to the master bedroom, an adjacent library sequestered by pocket doors and a full bath. An off-set mantel adorns the decorative fireplace in the master bedroom where the wood floors and tall ceilings continue to be predominant features. The library has a lined wood-burning fireplace adorned by a period mantel with flanking floor-to-ceiling bookcases.

The third floor is an aerie retreat, beautifully illuminated with windows on three sides, offering spectacular views of the Lafayette House and the Dulaney House as well as varied rooftops of Old Town. Two spacious bedrooms are linked by an adjoining door and share a full bath located beyond a small hall, perfect for a cozy reading spot or desk for correspondence.

The lower level provides excellent dry storage and includes two cedar closets and laundry facilities, as well as the systems of the house. Adding to the gentility of this noble house is the enclosed garden with brick patio, raised perimeter beds and an attractive storage shed for gardening supplies and refuse collection. Awash with blooms, the beds contain tulips, camellia, boxwood, helleri, skimmia and deciduous trees forming a canopy of shade.