1922 French Provincial Masterpiece in Pennsylvania Boasting a Chef’s Kitchen, Greenhouse and Poolside Guest House

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.

Richard Umstead of HOWARD HANNA REAL ESTATE SERVICES

Welcome to Sunnymede, a stunning estate built in 1921 in Sewickley Heights. Designed by William Boyd Jr. with inspiration from a Loire Valley château, this home boasts historic significance and exquisite architectural style. Set on nearly six acres, it features elegant walnut floors, French doors, and antique woodwork throughout its spacious interiors. The open-concept east wing includes a modern kitchen and family rooms, while the west wing offers grand entertaining spaces such as a vaulted great room, formal dining, and a paneled library. Recent renovations enhance luxury living with spa-like suites and outdoor amenities including a saltwater pool and pool house. Listed at $5,390,000, Sunnymede offers an unparalleled lifestyle surrounded by Olmsted-designed gardens.

Historic Estate Overview

Richard Umstead of HOWARD HANNA REAL ESTATE SERVICES

A sprawling historic estate surrounded by lush greenery and mature trees stretches across the landscape. The grand main house with a steeply pitched, shingled roof and white exterior walls anchors the scene. Architectural elements such as multiple chimneys and dormer windows highlight the classic American colonial style. A circular gravel driveway with manicured shrubs encloses an island of carefully shaped bushes, providing a stately approach to the front entrance. Adjacent outbuildings blend seamlessly with the main structure, while a pool and pool house tucked behind add luxurious outdoor recreation space. Expansive lawns and a backdrop of dense forest amplify a sense of privacy and timeless elegance.

Historic Home Exterior

Richard Umstead of HOWARD HANNA REAL ESTATE SERVICES

A stately historic American colonial-style home with a complex, steeply pitched shingle roof and multiple dormer windows. The exterior walls are clad in white wood siding, contrasting with dark window shutters and a prominent wooden front door framed with subtle decorative moldings. Mature landscaping lines the curved gravel driveway, including sculpted bushes, flowering plants, and mature trees that complement the home’s stateliness. The overall scene is bright and well-maintained, highlighting the blend of natural greenery and classic architectural charm typical of elegant early American estates.

Exterior Sidewalk and Landscaping

Richard Umstead of HOWARD HANNA REAL ESTATE SERVICES

The side of the house highlights a classic white clapboard exterior with black shutters adorning the windows, evoking a timeless colonial aesthetic. A curved row of large, multi-pane windows suggests a sunroom or living area inside. Stone steps gently curve along the base of the windows, seamlessly bridging the home to the vibrant garden. The landscaping combines lush green grass with neatly trimmed hedges and a variety of shrubs, including deep red Japanese maples and flowering bushes. A stone walkway extends through the garden, bordered by manicured plant beds and mature trees, creating a serene and inviting outdoor path.

Garden Lawn with Fountain

Richard Umstead of HOWARD HANNA REAL ESTATE SERVICES

A spacious, well-manicured lawn stretches across the garden, surrounded by a variety of mature trees and shrubs. The grass is vibrant green, providing a lush, inviting surface. In the center, a small circular water fountain adds an elegant focal point, encircled by stone edging. The garden’s perimeter is lined with dense greenery, including large pine trees, deciduous trees with red and green foliage, and neatly trimmed bushes. The overall design is traditional and serene, offering a peaceful outdoor space typical of a historic American property with a strong connection to nature.

Backyard Garden View

Richard Umstead of HOWARD HANNA REAL ESTATE SERVICES

Expansive green lawn stretches outward, centered by a circular stone-bordered pond with a small fountain. The garden is framed by neatly trimmed bushes and mature trees, adding layers of greenery and color contrasts. The historic home features classic white siding with black shutters and a steeply pitched shingled roof. Multiple chimneys and dormer windows accentuate the roofline, while a small portico entrance with white pillars provides an elegant focal point. Stone steps lead from the lush lawn up to the house, blending natural landscaping with architectural refinement in this serene outdoor space.

Outdoor Pool Area

Richard Umstead of HOWARD HANNA REAL ESTATE SERVICES

A rectangular in-ground pool with clear turquoise water is bordered by large stone pavers, creating a smooth, natural stone patio. A charming pool house with a steep gray-shingled roof and stone chimney sits at the far end, offering shaded seating with dark metal outdoor furniture. Lush greenery surrounds the space, including mature deciduous trees and vibrant red-leafed bushes, providing a colorful contrast against the tranquil blue pool. Black metal lounge chairs are neatly arranged on the patio, and a white pergola adds architectural interest and a shaded spot for relaxation, blending classic and tranquil outdoor aesthetics.

Outdoor Patio Dining

Richard Umstead of HOWARD HANNA REAL ESTATE SERVICES

A spacious outdoor patio area with a glass-top dining table surrounded by eight cushioned chairs arranged neatly. A decorative centerpiece sits on the table. The patio floor is paved with large stone tiles, extending to a nearby swimming pool framed by green landscaping and trimmed hedges. A white wooden pergola provides partial shade, its beams showing slight aging and peeling paint, adding rustic charm. Lush greenery and mature trees, some with deep red foliage, create a serene, natural backdrop. The space offers an inviting blend of comfort and nature, perfect for relaxing or entertaining outdoors.

Outdoor Pavilion Seating

Richard Umstead of HOWARD HANNA REAL ESTATE SERVICES

Symmetrically designed outdoor pavilion with a classic gray slate hip roof and white supporting columns. The stone-paved patio expands outward from the seating area, enhancing the structured garden space. Two pairs of cushioned chairs face a stone fireplace with a rustic clock mounted above, framed by natural stonework that contrasts the white siding behind. Black metal dining sets on either side add functional elegance to the open-air space. Two ornamental urn planters with dried foliage contribute to the refined traditional aesthetics, surrounded by lush green hedges and trees providing privacy and seasonal color accents.

Covered Patio and Poolside Seating

Richard Umstead of HOWARD HANNA REAL ESTATE SERVICES

Under a white paneled ceiling supported by classical square columns, a covered patio overlooks a rectangular outdoor pool. The flooring consists of large stone tiles in natural earth tones that complement the warm stone wall to the right. Multiple wrought iron chairs with cream cushions surround glass-topped tables, creating inviting seating areas. Ornamental planters and greenery add freshness to the serene space, while colorful red and green foliage in the background enhances the garden’s peaceful ambiance. Recessed lighting is discreetly embedded in the ceiling, ensuring a cozy atmosphere during evening gatherings.

Backyard Pool Area

Richard Umstead of HOWARD HANNA REAL ESTATE SERVICES

A large rectangular swimming pool is centered in a spacious, neatly paved stone patio that leads to a classic home with steep, shingled roofing and stone chimneys. Surrounding the pool, lush greenery and mature trees create a serene, private atmosphere. Ornamental shrubs, including red and green foliage, frame the pathway to the house. Black wrought-iron lounge chairs line one side of the pool, inviting relaxation. Stone urn planters on pedestals add timeless elegance while the vibrant garden contrasts vividly with the calm blue pool water under a clear, sunny sky.

Covered Porch Seating

Richard Umstead of HOWARD HANNA REAL ESTATE SERVICES

Stone columns with a rustic, natural texture support the white beadboard ceiling, creating a strong architectural foundation. A mix of cream and black wrought iron seating with plush white cushions and soft blue patterned pillows lines the porch, providing comfortable relaxation. The flooring combines a woven outdoor rug and a patterned tile border, adding visual interest. Classic lantern-style lights and a stone tabletop add charm, while the lush green lawn and mature trees extend the inviting ambiance into the garden. The calm, neutral tones blend seamlessly with nature, emphasizing a cohesive indoor-outdoor flow.

Garage Exterior

Richard Umstead of HOWARD HANNA REAL ESTATE SERVICES

Three black garage doors stand at the base of a charming, historic-style building with a shingled roof featuring dormer windows. The white siding contrasts elegantly with the dark doors, emphasizing a classic American aesthetic. An ornate white pillar topped with a finial marks the entrance to a gated area, while a vintage-style lamppost adds character beside the neatly trimmed greenery. Lush bushes and a small red shrub offer vibrant color against the soft gravel driveway. The architecture balances functionality and timeless charm within a tranquil, mature garden setting.

Greenhouse and Garden

Richard Umstead of HOWARD HANNA REAL ESTATE SERVICES

A charming greenhouse stands amidst an expansive lush lawn, bordered by manicured shrubs and mature trees. The greenhouse combines glass panels with dark painted wooden framing, blending seamlessly into the verdant surroundings. Sunlight filters through the foliage, casting dappled shadows on the vibrant grass. In the distance, a smaller garden shed echoes the greenhouse’s traditional structure, suggesting a well-maintained gardening space. The surrounding dense tree line provides privacy and a tranquil atmosphere, creating an inviting outdoor retreat perfect for cultivating plants in a serene, natural setting.

Historic Estate Aerial View

Richard Umstead of HOWARD HANNA REAL ESTATE SERVICES

A stately historic mansion rests amidst lush greenery, surrounded by mature trees and expansive lawn space. The main house features steeply pitched, multi-gabled roofs clad with wooden shingles, multiple dormer windows, and several tall chimneys, reflecting a classic and elegant architectural style. The facade is painted a soft gray with white trim that contrasts subtly with the natural colors of the landscaping. Shrubs and manicured gardens frame the front steps, leading to the entrance. A detached garage mimics the main house’s roof design, connected by a wide driveway. A circular stone-bordered fountain decorates the expansive grassy yard. Rolling hills and dense woods extend into the distance, emphasizing the private, tranquil setting of this grand estate.

Entry Hallway and Staircase

Richard Umstead of HOWARD HANNA REAL ESTATE SERVICES

The spacious entry hallway is adorned with striped beige wallpaper, white wainscoting, and a pale floral-patterned carpet that extends throughout the floor. A rich wooden bench with a cushion sits against the wall, accompanied by framed black and white artwork above. The staircase features a dark wood handrail and a carpet runner with a subtler pattern, complementing the elegant and traditional décor. To the left, an adjoining room with contrasting black-and-white checkered flooring and pale blue floral wallpaper adds depth. A delicate brass wall sconce and various antique furnishings contribute to the room’s classic, refined atmosphere.

Living Room Details

Richard Umstead of HOWARD HANNA REAL ESTATE SERVICES

Vaulted ceilings with exposed wood beams create a spacious and historic ambiance. The room features polished hardwood floors and walls in warm beige tones. Plush white sofas adorned with navy and patterned cushions are arranged on richly colored Persian rugs, adding vibrant accents to the classic palette. Vintage-style sconces frame a white marble fireplace topped by a large mirror, flanked by an ornate grandfather clock. Three tall windows with floral draped curtains let in natural light, enhancing the room’s elegant, timeless charm. Intricately carved wooden furniture and soft lighting complete the refined, comfortable setting.

Living Room Details

Richard Umstead of HOWARD HANNA REAL ESTATE SERVICES

Vaulted ceiling with exposed wooden beams in warm honey tones contrasts elegantly with soft blue-gray ceiling panels. Walls are painted in a subtle beige, enhancing the natural light from large multi-pane windows dressed in floral drapes with scalloped valances. Rich dark hardwood floors anchor the space, layered with richly patterned area rugs in deep blues and reds. Classic tufted cream armchairs and a carved wooden table with fine detailing add vintage charm. Artwork includes a framed landscape above a refined wooden cabinet. The open double door leads to a carpeted staircase, blending traditional and cozy aesthetics seamlessly.

Library Office

Richard Umstead of HOWARD HANNA REAL ESTATE SERVICES

Rich wood-paneled walls wrap around the room, adorned with intricate crown molding and built-in bookshelves filled with books. A stately carved wooden desk with detailed legs is positioned centrally, complemented by a polished rolling office chair. Two elegant teal velvet armchairs stand by the large bay window, which offers a sweeping outdoor view and fills the room with natural light. The carpet features a subtle floral pattern that adds softness to the space. A marble fireplace framed with ornate wood and a brass fan-shaped screen anchors one side, while classic wall sconces with glass shades provide warm ambient lighting, reflecting a refined and traditional aesthetic.

Dining Room Area

Richard Umstead of HOWARD HANNA REAL ESTATE SERVICES

A classic dining room with elegant hardwood floors and soft floral-patterned wallpaper bordered with white chair rail molding. Large multi-pane windows framed by luxurious peach-colored drapes with swags and tassels let in natural light and overlook a lush garden. French double doors open to an outdoor space, enhancing the room’s airy feel. Ornate crystal chandelier hangs above a polished wooden dining table paired with vintage-style chairs. A small side table in the corner holds a delicate lamp, while framed artwork and wall sconces add historic charm, complementing the refined yet inviting atmosphere.

Dining Room Details

Richard Umstead of HOWARD HANNA REAL ESTATE SERVICES

Oval dark wood dining table surrounded by six chairs with patterned upholstery sits atop a large, richly colored oriental rug in deep reds and blues. Pale beige wallpaper with subtle damask pattern adds elegance to the walls, complemented by white wainscoting and chair rails. A marble fireplace with a white mantel anchors one wall, flanked by symmetrical sconces casting a warm glow. Soft pink drapery with tasseled valances frames tall windows and French doors, letting in natural light. Crystal chandelier hangs centered over the table, adding sparkling refinement to the classic, formal atmosphere.

Dining Area and Island

Richard Umstead of HOWARD HANNA REAL ESTATE SERVICES

Open dining area with an adjoining large island countertop, featuring a polished stone surface and intricately paneled cabinetry with vintage-style mesh inserts. Hardwood floors extend throughout, complementing the soft beige walls. French doors with white trim open to the outdoors, framed by floral-patterned drapes with red accents. The ceiling is adorned with beams and delicate scrollwork paintings in muted gold and soft blue, adding elegance and historic character. Classic wooden dining chairs with upholstered seats surround a rectangular wooden table positioned on an intricately patterned oriental rug that enhances the traditional ambiance.

Kitchen and Breakfast Nook

Richard Umstead of HOWARD HANNA REAL ESTATE SERVICES

Soft cream cabinetry and a large central island with a dark marble countertop create a warm and inviting kitchen space. Hand-painted ornamental designs embellish the ceiling, adding historic charm and artistic detail. Multiple windows with floral-patterned valances allow an abundance of natural light to brighten the room. Light grey upholstered bar stools with metal ring accents fill the island seating, complementing the wooden dining chairs surrounding a polished wood table. The space includes built-in desks beneath windows, classic hardware, and recessed lighting, blending traditional elegance with functional modernity seamlessly.

Kitchen Island and Cabinets

Richard Umstead of HOWARD HANNA REAL ESTATE SERVICES

Expansive kitchen area with a central island featuring a rounded marble countertop and built-in open shelving displaying pottery. The cabinetry is painted in a soft cream color with subtle accents, complementing the warm hardwood floor. Large windows above the sink flood the space with natural light, adorned with decorative curtains matching the painted stenciled border trim on the ceiling and wall perimeter. The ceiling centerpiece includes recessed lights for ample illumination, framed by delicate gold and muted red scrollwork patterns. The layout emphasizes storage and functionality with multiple cabinets and drawers, along with a gas stovetop on the side counter.

Kitchen Island and Cabinets

Richard Umstead of HOWARD HANNA REAL ESTATE SERVICES

Expansive kitchen with a large center island topped with polished, light green marble. The island base is painted pale blue with subtle panel details and holds built-in storage. Surrounding cabinetry is cream-colored with vintage-style hardware, and the appliances, including a double oven and a stainless steel range, are seamlessly integrated. Hardwood floors in a warm tone complement the cabinetry. The ceiling displays decorative light blue beams adorned with intricate golden scrollwork, echoing a historic or classical design influence. Softly cushioned stools with brass ring accents provide seating at the island, blending comfort and elegance.

Living Room Entrance

Richard Umstead of HOWARD HANNA REAL ESTATE SERVICES

A welcoming living room characterized by a white arched front door with multiple small glass panes radiating natural light. The walls are painted a soft beige, complementing the rich dark hardwood floors adorned with layered Persian-style rugs. A pair of deep brown leather tufted Chesterfield sofas create a warm seating area next to large windows framed by floral-patterned gathered and swag valances in shades of blue and green, harmonizing with matching drapery. The coffered ceiling stands out with its square panels decorated with subtle floral motifs, adding a historic charm. A small rustic wooden side table with drawer and a classic console table beneath the window add to the traditional yet inviting atmosphere.

Living Room Seating

Richard Umstead of HOWARD HANNA REAL ESTATE SERVICES

Two brown leather tufted sofas face one another, creating a cozy seating area on a large oriental-style rug with intricate patterns. A square, tufted ottoman in light beige serves as a centerpiece, adding texture contrast. The walls carry a warm neutral tone, complementing rich wood floors. Three windows dressed in elegant, floral-patterned fabric valances and curtains allow natural light to enliven the room. A narrow wooden console table below the windows features curving legs and decorative items, including vases and a clock. A beautifully hand-painted coffered ceiling adds historic charm and refined aesthetics.

Master Bedroom Canopy Bed

Richard Umstead of HOWARD HANNA REAL ESTATE SERVICES

Expansive master bedroom featuring a grand four-poster canopy bed draped with olive-toned fabric, accented with gold and black carved wood. The walls are covered with pale green patterned wallpaper, complementing the similarly hued carpet with subtle prints. Natural light filters through large bay windows framed with beige curtains, enhancing the soft pastel ambiance. Elegantly carved antique furniture includes a dark wood dresser, matching nightstands, and a small antique-style writing desk paired with a skirted chair. A tufted bench in muted brown sits at the foot of the bed. The room ambiance is classic, cozy and stately with intricate crown molding and a decorative fireplace adding charm.

Bathroom Vanity and Shower

Richard Umstead of HOWARD HANNA REAL ESTATE SERVICES

Curved, marble-like white countertops with dual sinks rest atop creamy beige cabinetry accented by brushed nickel hardware. A large, segmented mirror framed with detailed woodwork stretches the length of the vanity, surrounded by classic wall sconces with soft lighting. The walk-in shower has a frameless curved glass enclosure, tiled walls in a delicate diamond pattern with muted rosettes, and multiple shower heads visible. A cozy window seat beneath three multi-pane windows is cushioned, offering a serene view outside. Walls feature subtle, vintage floral wallpaper that complements the traditional architectural moldings and the elegant, soft palette throughout the space.

Elegant Bathroom Vanity

Richard Umstead of HOWARD HANNA REAL ESTATE SERVICES

This spacious bathroom blends classic design with luxury. Soft cream cabinetry lines the room, featuring detailed molding and drawers beneath a long cushioned bench by the multiple windows. These windows are adorned with gathered, striped valances adding a vintage touch. The marble floor shines under recessed lighting, complementing the polished white countertop. A large oval soaking tub with elegant polished chrome fixtures is centered below a wide set of tall framed mirrors, doubling the light and view. Two classic sconces with fabric shades provide warm illumination. Green plants add a fresh natural element, contrasting gently with the beige and muted pastels in the wallpaper and trim.

Bathroom with Vanity Nook

Richard Umstead of HOWARD HANNA REAL ESTATE SERVICES

A large glass-enclosed shower with intricate mosaic tile patterns in soft beige and muted green covers the left wall, complementing the light marble floor with subtle veining. To the right, a built-in vanity runs the length of the room beneath large windows dressed with elegant, pleated valances in a golden hue. A cushioned bench seating contributes comfort and style, while a small dressing desk with a skirted chair sits under a smaller window, beside an inset wall phone and mounted magnifying mirror. Crown molding and warm cream tones bring a classic, refined feel to this bathroom space.

Bedroom with Canopy

Richard Umstead of HOWARD HANNA REAL ESTATE SERVICES

Soft blue walls provide a calming backdrop for this spacious bedroom, complemented by rich yellow floral curtains framing multiple windows that flood the room with natural light. A large bed with a textured blue-gray coverlet sits beneath an ornate fabric canopy, adding a regal and cozy touch. Furniture includes a white upholstered sofa and chair with coordinating blue cushions, a delicate wooden desk, and a smaller writing table, both in dark wood finishes that add warmth and contrast. The pale yellow carpet grounds the room, enhancing its serene and inviting atmosphere.

Bedroom with French Doors

Richard Umstead of HOWARD HANNA REAL ESTATE SERVICES

Soft buttery yellow walls provide warmth and contrast against white trim and ceiling, creating an inviting atmosphere. French doors with multiple glass panes open to the outside, flanked by patterned yellow floral drapes matching the valance-covered windows on two adjacent walls. A white wooden bed with intricate carving and a detailed quilted white bedspread anchors the room. Nearby, a classic white desk with a hutch houses books and an office chair, while a white chest of drawers adds charm and storage. A vintage armchair with light upholstery and a blue accent pillow rounds out the cozy, elegant decor.

Bathroom Vanity Area

Richard Umstead of HOWARD HANNA REAL ESTATE SERVICES

Glossy black cabinetry with silver hardware runs along the left wall, topped with a dark granite countertop that integrates a single sink and polished chrome faucet. A large frameless mirror covers the angled wall behind the vanity, reflecting recessed ceiling lights for ample illumination. The floor is clad in white marble tiles with delicate grey veining, accented by small black diamond insets. A small stool with a white cushion and metal frame sits near a window featuring divided panes and a white trim. To the right, a doorway leads to a separate toilet area, and a partial view of a glass-enclosed shower with pale beige tiled walls is visible.

Laundry Room Utility

Richard Umstead of HOWARD HANNA REAL ESTATE SERVICES

White cabinetry lines the walls, providing ample storage space above and below the countertops. A small stainless steel sink is integrated into the countertop for practical use. Two front-loading washing machines sit side by side on a tiled platform, matching in sleek white with black circular doors, creating a modern contrast to the traditional cabinetry. The beige wall and neutral flooring enhance the clean and bright atmosphere while the classic brass door knob on the cream door adds a warm, timeless detail to the otherwise contemporary and functional space.

Living Room Seating Area

Richard Umstead of HOWARD HANNA REAL ESTATE SERVICES

The space blends modern and rustic elements with a high wood-paneled ceiling and a large stone accent wall. A vibrant Persian-style carpet with intricate patterns covers the floor, anchoring the seating arrangement. Two black leather armchairs with metal framing face a white cushioned loveseat adorned with blue-patterned pillows near a small window. A long dining or console table with four beige upholstered chairs lines one white wall. Multiple wall-mounted sconces cast warm ambient light across the room. French doors on the right side introduce natural light, enhancing the inviting atmosphere. A wooden spiral staircase leads to a balcony overlooking the room, adding architectural interest.

Loft Seating Area

Richard Umstead of HOWARD HANNA REAL ESTATE SERVICES

Sloped, rich wood-paneled walls and ceiling with exposed beams create a warm and rustic atmosphere in this upper-level loft. The wood’s deep tones contrast with white lower walls and a light beige carpet, softening the space. A wooden railing lines the staircase opening, adding traditional craftsmanship details with balusters and newel posts. Furnishings include a neutral-toned sofa and a white desk chair positioned near a small table, enhancing functionality without crowding the area. Angled windows cut into the slanted walls allow natural light to stream in, brightening the cozy, intimate nook.

Home Theater Room

Richard Umstead of HOWARD HANNA REAL ESTATE SERVICES

Expansive home theater space with a large white projection screen set against dark curtains. A modern media console with a warm wood finish anchors the setup, equipped with speakers and electronic components. Seating includes luxurious black leather reclining chairs with brass brown accent pillows and a sleek lounge chair featuring a black frame and a patterned cushion. A richly colored oriental rug in red, navy, and cream tones covers the light carpeted floor, adding warmth and traditional elegance. One entire wall is covered by a large mirror, enhancing the sense of space and reflecting light from sleek, circular ceiling fixtures. Neutral walls and ceiling maintain a clean, unobtrusive backdrop for entertainment.

Listing Agent: Richard Umstead of HOWARD HANNA REAL ESTATE SERVICES via Zillow 

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