1850 Colonial Home in Pennsylvania With a Sunlit Breakfast Room, Original Carriage House and Terraced Outdoor Living

Written By

Mathew Abraham

Updated on

Mathew Abraham

Mathew Abraham, editor of Century Homes America, brings his passion for architectural history to explore the stories behind America’s most iconic homes.

Eileen Myers of BHHS Fox & Roach-Rosemont

This distinguished Villanova, home embodies elegance and craftsmanship dating back to 1850, with major construction from 1930/31. Celebrated for its gracious architectural design, the property features original millwork, fireplaces, and a soaring staircase overlooking manicured gardens and terraces. Recent renovations include fully updated bathrooms, a renovated kitchen, and a primary suite with custom cabinetry. The estate offers a circular drive, specimen plantings, a pool, terraces, a vegetable garden, and a historic carriage house. Priced at $2,695,000, it is conveniently located near shopping, dining, and top-rated Lower Merion Schools, making it a rare and timeless treasure. Original plans are available for review.

Front Entrance

Eileen Myers of BHHS Fox & Roach-Rosemont

The front entrance of the house features a classic design with a black door centered beneath a decorative fanlight window and flanked by sidelights. A white portico with pilasters and a triangular pediment frames the door, creating a stately, inviting look. Brick steps and landing complement the traditional aesthetic, leading from a brick walkway surrounded by neatly trimmed boxwood hedges. Large urn planters with mixed greenery and flowers add a touch of color and elegance. Black shutters on the adjoining windows contrast the beige exterior walls, reinforcing a timeless, Colonial-inspired charm.

Exterior Front View

Eileen Myers of BHHS Fox & Roach-Rosemont

Large historic home with a cream-colored facade and black shutters on evenly spaced windows. The front entrance is prominent with a small portico supported by classical columns and topped with a triangular pediment. The roof is steeply pitched with dormer windows adding architectural interest. Mature trees frame the property, including a large, prominent tree near the circular driveway that leads up to the front door. Shrubs and low greenery line the home’s foundation, offering a well-maintained, natural transition between the house and the driveway. A sense of preserved colonial elegance with a touch of rustic charm is evident.

Historic Home Exterior

Eileen Myers of BHHS Fox & Roach-Rosemont

A grand traditional American home with a white, stucco exterior and multiple gables punctuating the slate roof. Black shutters contrast sharply against the bright walls, giving the facade a timeless, classic appeal. Brick chimneys rise prominently from the roof, highlighting the home’s historic character. The driveway curves gently toward the entrance, bordered by manicured shrubs and mature trees that enhance privacy. Leafless trees indicate a late autumn or early spring setting, and the stone steps and low wall near the doorway add subtle architectural interest. Overall, the setting evokes a stately, inviting ambiance.

Patio Seating Area

Eileen Myers of BHHS Fox & Roach-Rosemont

Outdoor patio space with red brick flooring arranged in a herringbone pattern. Two matching metal-framed sofas with bright blue cushions and black-and-white striped pillows face each other, creating a conversational layout. Between them is a stylish, wide rectangular coffee table with a textured woven design in neutral tones. There are also two small decorative ceramic stools in blue and white patterns, flanking the sofas. The backdrop is a classic red brick wall with small architectural recesses and niches, complemented by lush greenery and mature trees providing a natural and serene atmosphere, perfect for relaxing or entertaining.

Backyard Garden Play Area

Eileen Myers of BHHS Fox & Roach-Rosemont

A rectangular grassy lawn bordered by dense tall evergreens on the left provides privacy and a lush green backdrop. On the right side, a raised brick-edged planting bed runs along the perimeter, housing dormant shrubs and late winter growth. A white wooden arbor gate adds a classic garden charm near the evergreens, with croquet mallets propped against it, indicating an inviting recreational space. At the far end, a rustic brick outdoor fireplace or chimney anchors the garden, surrounded by additional shrubbery and trees with early spring blossoms. The atmosphere blends natural tranquility with subtle vintage elegance.

Backyard Patio and Lawn

Eileen Myers of BHHS Fox & Roach-Rosemont

Expansive backyard with a well-maintained grass lawn bordered by neat shrubbery and mature trees, some with light blossoms hinting at spring. The house’s exterior is classic with smooth white walls, black shutters, and a slate-gray pitched roof with dormer windows, showcasing Colonial architecture. A brick-paved patio area is furnished with blue cushioned outdoor seating, creating a cozy spot for relaxation. A built-in brick fireplace is visible at the lawn’s far end, suggesting outdoor entertaining. The smooth transition from the green lawn to the paved patio and carefully trimmed bushes emphasizes a peaceful and inviting outdoor living space.

Outdoor Patio Seating

Eileen Myers of BHHS Fox & Roach-Rosemont

A spacious brick patio adjoins a white stucco exterior with black shuttered windows, reflecting a classic colonial style. The patio is furnished with black metal framed seating that includes a sofa and chairs, all upholstered in bright blue cushions contrasted by black-and-white striped pillows. French doors and multiple windows open onto the patio, inviting natural light and easy indoor-outdoor flow. Surrounding foliage adds greenery and a touch of nature to the elegant setting, while a yellow accent stool adds a pop of additional color. The atmosphere is inviting and serene, blending historic charm with contemporary comfort.

Garden Pathway

Eileen Myers of BHHS Fox & Roach-Rosemont

A charming garden pathway paved with well-worn bricks leads alongside the white exterior of the house, bordered by a neatly mulched flower bed with small green plants. A series of short, brick steps ascend to a higher grassy lawn area, enclosed by dense, tall evergreen trees providing privacy and a lush backdrop. Rounded and trimmed boxwood bushes line the pathway and steps, adding softness to the landscape. In the distance, a white wooden pergola stands on the lawn, hinting at garden leisure or outdoor games. Mature, leafless branches of deciduous trees add an organic, natural element to the serene garden setting.

Backyard Pool Area

Eileen Myers of BHHS Fox & Roach-Rosemont

A serene and inviting backyard space with a curvilinear swimming pool bordered by natural stonework along the edges. The pool deck consists of textured concrete with subtle white dividing lines, enhancing grip and visual appeal. On one side, there is a small diving board, while the opposite side features a tiered stone waterfall that adds a dynamic water feature. The house in the background is a charming two-story structure painted in soft beige, fitted with white-framed glass doors and black shutters. Mature trees with bare branches and lush green shrubs surround the yard, providing privacy and tranquility. A covered porch with white outdoor furniture offers a shaded seating area, and a row of modern lounge chairs sits beside the pool, perfect for relaxation. The overall ambiance combines rustic natural elements with comfortable leisure living in a spacious outdoor area.

Garage Exterior

Eileen Myers of BHHS Fox & Roach-Rosemont

The scene shows a charming historic garage structure with aged slate roofing and classic dormer windows that add character to the roofline. The whitewashed walls exhibit some weathering, contributing to the building’s vintage appeal. Ivy climbs part of the wall near the roof, blending natural greenery with the man-made structure. A single black garage door and smaller arched door provide functional access. Surrounding the garage, mature pine and deciduous trees cast soft shadows on the paved driveway, while low hedges and shrubs border the perimeter, framing this quaint yet practical outbuilding peacefully nestled in a lush garden setting.

Entry Hall with Staircase

Eileen Myers of BHHS Fox & Roach-Rosemont

Wide plank hardwood floors extend across the entry hall, enhancing the warmth of the space. A grand staircase with white balusters and a black handrail curves upward, covered with a beige runner bordered in vibrant red for a striking contrast. The walls are adorned with subtle, botanical-patterned wallpaper in soft cream and white tones, complementing the traditional wainscot paneling that runs along the staircase and lower walls. Above the staircase hangs an elegant glass pendant light. A tall antique grandfather clock stands against one wall, while a slim console table imbued with rich wood tones rests beneath a framed artwork and a decorative wall sconce. Arched doorways and transom windows add a historic architectural charm, welcoming natural light through French doors leading outside.

Entryway Hall

Eileen Myers of BHHS Fox & Roach-Rosemont

Spacious entry hall with soft beige wallpaper patterned in delicate white branches and leaves, contrasted by crisp white wainscoting below. A grand black front door with sidelights and a fanlight above invites natural light in, complementing the warm, honey-toned hardwood floors partially covered by a large, textured beige area rug with geometric motifs. Along one wall, a dark wood console table framed by a vintage ornate mirror is flanked by two yellow ceramic lamps, adding vibrant color. Two wooden chairs with cane backs and pink cushions provide seating, while vivid accents like pink pillows on a loveseat contribute cheerful pops of color. Adjacent open doorway leads to a cozy sitting room featuring bold blue armchairs and contemporary lighting.

Entryway with Fireplace

Eileen Myers of BHHS Fox & Roach-Rosemont

The space serves as a welcoming entryway, marked by a prominent black front door with an elegant semicircular transom window above it, allowing natural light to softly illuminate the room. Walls are adorned in pale wallpaper with delicate floral patterns complementing white wainscoting around the room. A classic white fireplace with intricate molding frames a stone hearth, adding warmth and traditional charm. Nearby sits a vintage-style loveseat featuring a muted geometric fabric, accented by bold pink and red throw pillows introducing a pop of color. Various framed artworks add personality, while a soft-patterned area rug covers the hardwood floor, harmonizing the entire aesthetic into a sophisticated blend of classic and contemporary elements.

Entry Hallway

Eileen Myers of BHHS Fox & Roach-Rosemont

Wide hardwood flooring extends throughout this bright entry hallway, with an elegant patterned area rug anchoring the space. Walls are adorned with light beige and cream floral-patterned wallpaper up to a white chair rail with paneled wainscoting below. A grand grandfather clock stands near the white double French doors leading outside. Above, white stair railings curve gracefully, paired with intricate molding along the ceiling. An arched doorway opens into a gallery hallway accented by classic crown molding and framed art, which leads toward a well-lit living area. A small mahogany console table with decorative accents and a wall sconce with soft lighting provide warmth and refinement.

Hallway and Staircase

Eileen Myers of BHHS Fox & Roach-Rosemont

A spacious entry with warm honey-toned wooden floors stretches beneath traditional white wainscoting and paneling lining the walls. A graceful staircase ascends with white spindles, black handrails, and a beige runner edged in muted red. The walls are covered in light golden wallpaper with delicate white leaf motifs, creating a soft, inviting texture. Above the staircase, a large arched window bathes the space in natural light. Classic architectural details include an arched doorway leading outdoors and a stately grandfather clock, while a patterned rug grounds the entry area. The adjoining room reveals plush seating and tall windows with arched tops, enhancing an elegant historic ambiance.

Living Room Details

Eileen Myers of BHHS Fox & Roach-Rosemont

Spacious and bright living room with large multi-pane windows set in deep white trim, allowing ample natural light. Walls painted in a soft beige complement the rich warm tone hardwood floors. The seating includes a crisp white sofa adorned with pastel and patterned cushions, paired with two deep navy blue armchairs featuring embroidered accent pillows. A light blue armchair and patterned pillow add softness in the foreground. Centered dark wood coffee table holds decorative vases and a small plant. Vintage style china cabinet contrasts with modern abstract pendant lighting casting intricate shadows on the ceiling, blending classic and contemporary design.

Living Room Seating Area

Eileen Myers of BHHS Fox & Roach-Rosemont

The room centers around a dark navy blue fireplace mantel with a brick hearth, contrasted against soft neutral beige walls. Large windows with white trim and a distinctive arched double door bring in ample natural light and frame views of the greenery outside. Seating includes a plush saddle blue armchair with a patterned pillow, two deep blue velvet armchairs adorned with vibrant, multicolored pillows, and a cream-colored sofa with navy and patterned cushions. A dark wooden coffee table with decorative vases and greenery anchors a textured ivory rug. The ceiling showcases a striking, intricate light fixture casting patterned shadows, combining classic architecture with contemporary style.

Seating Area

Eileen Myers of BHHS Fox & Roach-Rosemont

The room features classic white paneled walls and crown molding creating a timeless and elegant backdrop. Two bright orange armchairs with a floral pattern add a vibrant splash of color that contrasts with the neutral beige sofa adorned with patterned cushions. A glass-topped wooden coffee table sits centrally on a textured brown rug, offering a warm, earthy grounding. Built-in bookshelves filled with books and decorative items line one wall, while a traditional fireplace with a detailed mantel enhances the historical charm. The room is well-lit by natural light streaming through double-hung windows framed by deep trim. Two matching lamps sit on a dark wood desk against the far wall, adding symmetry and a cozy ambiance to this inviting, well-curated living space.

Cozy Sitting Room

Eileen Myers of BHHS Fox & Roach-Rosemont

The room is bathed in natural light from two large, multi-pane windows framed by classic white molding, enhancing the traditional charm. A combination of vibrant orange armchairs with floral patterns contrasts elegantly against a more subdued beige sofa adorned with patterned throw pillows. The coffee table, with a glass top and wooden frame, sits on a neutral-toned area rug that covers the warm wood flooring. Built-in bookshelves filled with books and framed photos line one wall, accompanied by numerous family photographs and a vintage mirror with intricate wooden carving, adding a personal and historic touch. A dark wooden desk, flanked by matching lamps with blue-and-white ceramic bases, occupies the space beneath the windows, blending function and style. Crown molding and recessed lighting provide finish details that complement the room’s cozy yet refined ambiance.

Bar Area with Adjacent Powder Room

Eileen Myers of BHHS Fox & Roach-Rosemont

A compact bar nook displays a dark wood console serving as storage for an extensive collection of glassware and spirits, topped with colorful liquor bottles and an orange ice bucket. The walls and ceiling in this area bear a soft yellow base decorated with an orange diamond grid pattern, lending a warm and lively ambiance. A bold, abstract painting in shades of blue, green, pink, and beige hangs above the console, adding vibrancy. Beyond a cream-colored door with frosted glass panes, a powder room with floral orange and white wallpaper and rich wooden flooring is visible, enhancing the space’s eclectic charm.

Dining Room Ambiance

Eileen Myers of BHHS Fox & Roach-Rosemont

Elongated wooden dining table surrounded by cushioned chairs with patterned upholstery, sitting atop a richly colored Persian rug. Walls adorned with pale pink textured wallpaper framed by white wainscoting and molding create a refined, classic palette. A central ornate chandelier with a gilded finish hangs from the white ceiling, casting warm illumination. To one side, a vintage mahogany sideboard topped with blue and white ceramic vases and a globe, while a white wood-paneled fireplace with intricate carvings anchors the opposite wall below a framed pastoral painting. Bay windows with lavender valances invite natural light, enhancing the room’s elegance.

Formal Dining Room

Eileen Myers of BHHS Fox & Roach-Rosemont

The room centers around a large rectangular wooden dining table surrounded by a mix of carved wooden chairs with striped cushions and two upholstered armchairs with red piping. The floor is covered by an intricate, deep red and blue Persian rug that complements the wood tones. The walls are adorned with classic white wainscoting and pink textured wallpaper set within framed panels. A white fireplace with detailed trim is flanked by two elegant wall sconces illuminating a pastel landscape painting. Large windows with pink fabric valances line one wall, allowing natural light that highlights the room’s traditional elegance enhanced by a gold ornate chandelier hanging above the table.

Entry Hall with Staircase

Eileen Myers of BHHS Fox & Roach-Rosemont

The space presents a warm and inviting entry hall framed by a wide, ornate archway with detailed white trim that contrasts softly against pale tan walls. Natural wood flooring stretches out underfoot while a muted, patterned rug adds texture near the staircase base. The staircase itself showcases classic white spindles with a dark wooden handrail, climbing alongside walls adorned with a subtle, floral-patterned wallpaper in beige tones. Three vibrant, framed artworks featuring floral motifs in red, purple, and blue punctuate the stairwell wall. Beyond, a glimpse into a cozy sitting room reveals plush navy chairs accented by colorful cushions and a modern, sculptural pendant light, linking old-world charm with contemporary touches.

Open Kitchen and Living Area

Eileen Myers of BHHS Fox & Roach-Rosemont

The space combines a bright kitchen and adjacent living area with a unified open layout. White cabinetry with glass-front upper cupboards contrasts against mint green tile backsplash and matching kitchen island base. The island has a warm wooden countertop with two patterned stool seats beneath. Large multi-pane windows flood the kitchen with natural light, overlooking greenery outside. The room features warm, rich wood flooring extending to the living area furnished with classic upholstered seating and wooden side tables. Soft green walls and recessed lighting add subtle charm and a historic yet fresh ambiance throughout.

Kitchen Island and Window

Eileen Myers of BHHS Fox & Roach-Rosemont

A spacious kitchen centered around a large wooden island with a smooth, natural finish. Two stools with dark, patterned upholstery peek out from under the island, adding an artistic touch. Surrounding the island are classic white cabinets; some have glass-paneled doors displaying neatly arranged dishes. The backsplash is tiled in soft mint green, extending up to the range hood and under the window. The window above the farmhouse apron sink offers a view of lush greenery outside. Stainless steel appliances, including a double oven and a professional gas range, contrast with the otherwise serene color scheme. Hardwood floors provide warmth to the open layout.

Living Room Seating Area

Eileen Myers of BHHS Fox & Roach-Rosemont

Soft green walls and trim create a calming backdrop for the living room, contrasted by a large patterned area rug in neutral tones covering the dark hardwood floor. Two matching beige sofas with subtle polka-dotted upholstery face each other, framing a deep pink rectangular ottoman that doubles as a coffee table, complete with a wooden tray and a small floral arrangement. Accents such as patterned cushions and two black-lamp bedside tables add texture and light. A colorful abstract painting on the far wall provides a vibrant focal point, while patterned window treatments and recessed lighting complete the bright yet cozy atmosphere.

Sunroom Dining Area

Eileen Myers of BHHS Fox & Roach-Rosemont

Six elegant dining chairs with red upholstered seats and beige backs surround a round wooden table in a bright sunroom. Multiple glass-paneled French doors on three sides allow abundant natural light and offer clear views of the outdoors, creating an inviting connection with the garden. The walls are covered in vintage-style brown and beige patterned wallpaper, adding warmth and texture. A modern drum pendant light with a fabric shade hangs centered above the table. White cabinetry with glass-front upper cabinets on the right houses kitchen or dining essentials, contrasting the warm wood flooring and natural wood countertop. A neutral large area rug anchors the space, blending classic and contemporary elements.

Upstairs Landing

Eileen Myers of BHHS Fox & Roach-Rosemont

Wide wooden plank floors flow smoothly through this upstairs landing, bordered by white-painted spindles with a contrasting dark wood railing. Soft yellow wallpaper with a subtle white botanical pattern adds warmth and texture, while a series of large windows dressed with playful pink and purple valances bring natural light and color vibrancy. Deep white trim and wainscoting add a classic, elegant touch. A hanging lantern-style light fixture descends to illuminate the stairwell below, blending traditional charm and cozy ambiance in a well-lit, inviting transitional space connecting adjacent rooms.

Walk-In Closet Storage

Eileen Myers of BHHS Fox & Roach-Rosemont

The walk-in closet is characterized by custom white cabinetry with recessed panel drawer fronts and silver hardware, providing ample organized storage. A plush carpet with a symmetrical geometric pattern covers the floor, enhancing the room’s cozy yet polished feel. Natural light streams through two large windows framed by classic white trim with interior shutters, adding historic charm. The built-ins include open shelving filled with neatly folded clothes and multiple drawers, while a contemporary round light fixture on the ceiling keeps the space bright. Neutral beige wallpaper complements the white tones, balancing warmth and brightness.

Walk-In Closet

Eileen Myers of BHHS Fox & Roach-Rosemont

A bright walk-in closet with custom built-in cabinetry painted in soft white, featuring a combination of open shelves, drawers, and hanging rods. Shelves hold neatly folded sweaters and shirts sorted by color, from yellow and pink to blues, adding vibrancy to the neutral palette. The hanging area displays patterned shirts and blouses, creating a lively contrast. A large window with divided panes lets in natural light, highlighting a silver decorative orb on the window seat beneath it. The carpet has a geometric pattern in muted tones, complementing the classic, clean, and organized design aesthetic.

Bedroom with Bright Accents

Eileen Myers of BHHS Fox & Roach-Rosemont

Neutral beige walls and carpet create a calm backdrop for a cheerful bedroom. A white wood headboard anchors a bed layered with white bedding and vibrant pink bed skirt, complemented by matching decorative pillows with floral motifs. Two nightstands in vivid fuchsia flank the bed, each topped with a white lamp giving off soft, warm light. Windows on two adjacent walls bring natural light, dressed with green and pink valances that add a traditional yet fresh touch. A woven laundry basket rests unobtrusively near the wall, enhancing the room’s functionality without disrupting its inviting aesthetic.

Bathroom Vanity and Window

Eileen Myers of BHHS Fox & Roach-Rosemont

Soft blue cabinetry with raised panel drawers and a smooth white countertop creates a charming, vintage appeal. White subway tiles line the wall behind the vanity, blending into the full-size mirror that expands the sense of space. A classic white toilet sits tucked beneath a half tiled wall ledge. The window has multiple glass panes set into thick white molding, evoking a traditional style, with a modern striped valance adding subtle texture. A white radiator rests beneath the window, while the small tiled floor features a muted honeycomb pattern, complementing the understated color palette.

Listing Agent: Eileen Myers of BHHS Fox & Roach-Rosemont via Zillow 

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