Description

Designed by the Philadelphia firm of Savery & Scheetz for its wealthy industrialist namesake, the Houstonia mansion impresses at every turn. No detail was spared in this 22-room estate - you'll find all of the grace and charm of the time period intact with tasteful and modern updates, making the home both a lovely endeavor in preserved history and well-suited for today's discerning buyer. With an incredible amount of original architectural elements whose quality in craftsmanship and detail is a rarity in today's builds, the home is quintessentially Neoclassical. Ascend the bluestone terrace with Juliet balcony & soaring 2-story portico & discover its grandeur. French doors open onto a magnificent reception hall, whose wide stair & Palladian window half-story landing fills the space below with natural light. Gleaming hardwood floors, handsome wainscoting, detailed millwork, pocket doors, stunning light fixtures & quality materials set the tone for this home. A very large, full-depth living room with gorgeous soapstone hearth fireplace is located to the hall's left. It serves as a lovely gathering room, providing access to both the terrace & sunroom. To the right of the center hall, you'll find the office & an arched passageway to the home's beautiful dining room with a second soapstone hearth fireplace. The generously-sized butler's pantry with beverage refrigerator, a second dishwasher and abundant storage is adjacent, followed by the kitchen with gorgeous cabinetry, stainless steel built-in kitchen aid appliances, huge island, and many gourmet amenities! A mudroom is located just beyond the kitchen & makes a lovely transition to the back stair hall and side porch entry. The stairs provide convenient & informal access to the bedroom wing above; here you'll find 5 bedrooms, a den, 3 full baths, laundry room & stair access to the 3rd story. Continue across the main stair hall to find the sizable owners suite with en suite bath, large dressing room which formerly served as a sleeping porch walk-thru closets. The finished 3rd story includes a bedroom suite ideal for guest or perhaps an au pair, bonus rooms, walk-in cedar lined storage rooms, and a billiard room which now serves as a fabulous family room. A large, detached carriage house with three heated garage bays is located on a separately deeded tax parcel and is included with this property. The carriage home residence serves perfectly as an in-law suite, or a rental. With hardwood floors throughout, it boasts an eat-in kitchen, great room, family room, 2 bedrooms, hall bath and deck. With five acres of gorgeous private grounds, including a former green house, Houstonia is also surrounded by an oasis of township parkland in Wallingford. This location provides convenient access to the Philadelphia Airport, SEPTA train stations, Media Borough, and a myriad of retail and commercial centers.