1423 Melrose Avenue

Description

Own of piece of Gilded Age history in this impressively maintained and thoughtfully updated Georgian Colonial designed by one of Philadelphia's most prominent architects, Horace Trumbauer. The 4900+ square foot home was commissioned in 1898 by John Stetson, of "Stetson Hat+G- fame and was part of his Elkins Park estate. Original Victorian charm has been tastefully blended with a modern aesthetic and efficiencies. The home is as stately as it is functional. The sprawling 1,200 square foot porch is perfect for entertaining or dining al fresco. It overlooks a large, fenced yard ideal for neighborly outdoor gatherings around a fire pit, and worry-free space for pets and/or kids to play. The lot's topography is higher than surrounding neighbors, giving a great sense of privacy, As you approach the main entrance, you'll step through original double leaded-glass doors into an elegant foyer with 10-foot ceilings, a stunning staircase and original hardwood floors. To the left, a spacious living room with one of two automated pellet stoves for cozy evenings at home. To the right of the foyer, there's a comfortable family room. Two porches have been enclosed and transformed into valuable indoor living space; a bright and luxurious foyer with storage on one end of the home and a sunroom/dining room on the other. No expense has been spared for updating the aesthetics, efficiency and livability of this home. The newly renovated kitchen features Italian marble backsplash, quartz countertops, and an updated butler+GGs pantry provides additional storage and ultra-filtered water. A mudroom, laundry room, half bath and under-the-stairs reading nook complete the main level. Great care and attention has been paid to making the home energy efficient. There has been a 40% improvement in energy audit scores as a result of replacing all windows & doors (predominantly Pella architectural series); renovating enclosed side porches with spray foam throughout including crawl spaces; and blow in insulation throughout the attic to modern standard (R-49). The steam heat system has been augmented by three-zone high-efficiency heat pump system (18-21 SEER) on the main floor which also provides central air on the first floor. An eight-sensor Ecobee thermostat throughout the house anticipates when you will want a heat boost in specific areas of the house based on time (i.e. bedrooms at bedtime) and/or occupancy with motion sensors. Never be without power after a storm: two new electrical panels with generator sub-panel and outside hook-up keep the lights, heat, and WiFi on. Other work include: fully painted exterior including roof line dentition; plumbing updates; and wiring updates As you go upstairs, you'll find spacious bedrooms and 9+GG ceilings on the 2nd & 3rd floors, allowing one to take advantage of the masterful Trumbauer architectural design that allows both beautiful sunrise and sunset light to fill the home. There are three bedrooms and two full bathrooms on the second floor, including an en-suite primary bathroom with European low-entry shower, waterproof flooring, a double vanity with the same custom countertop and Italian backsplash featured in the kitchen (will be finished April 2021). On the third floor, there are three bedrooms, and one full bath which can accommodate living, schooling, and working at home needs. There's also a finished basement which is primarily used for storage. All landscaping beds have been reinstalled with heavy landscape fabric. The home is within walking distance of the Elkins Park and Melrose Park SEPTA stations, Creekside Market & Tap, Korean H-Mart Grocery, several other shops, restaurants and parks. The estimated total square footage of 4924 is based on a 2015 appraisal.