Discover an Elegant 1860 Greek Revival Home in Massachusetts Featuring Soaring Ceilings, a Spacious Library and a Large Front Lawn

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.

Betsy Millane of Gibson Sotheby’s International Realty

This historic Newton Center home, listed at $2,495,000, boasts soaring ceilings, elegant architectural details, and spacious rooms filled with natural light. Featuring 13 rooms across three floors, including 7 bedrooms and 4 tiled baths, it preserves classic charm with four fireplaces and two stairways. The property includes a large front lawn with mature plantings and a two-car garage. Interiors highlight a renowned architect-designed library, a grand living room, and a family room adjoining the cook’s kitchen. Equipped with hot water radiators and efficient mini-split cooling, this majestic residence offers proximity to BC Law, Newton Center, and major routes, ready for its next chapter.

Front Exterior View

Betsy Millane of Gibson Sotheby’s International Realty

A classic two-story historic American home framed by lush, mature greenery and well-maintained shrubs lines the pathway leading to the entrance. The exterior showcases a balanced symmetry, with an off-white façade contrasted by dark brown shutters and trim. The porch, supported by square columns, features a simple, elegant white railing and steps that invite entry. The upper floor includes a decorative arched window above the porch roof and a small balcony with wrought iron railings, adding architectural interest. The surrounding tall trees and abundant bushes create a secluded and serene atmosphere for the property.

Front Yard and Entrance

Betsy Millane of Gibson Sotheby’s International Realty

A long, straight concrete pathway leads through a well-maintained, expansive green lawn flanked by shrubs and mature trees. The symmetrical two-story historic house sits at the end of the path with a stately portico entrance supported by classical columns. The exterior walls are painted white with dark shutters framing the windows, creating a crisp contrast. The upper level features a centered semicircular window above the main front door, hinting at the home’s traditional architectural style. The mature landscaping, combined with the solid, orderly appearance of the facade, evokes an elegant, timeless character.

Historic Home Exterior

Betsy Millane of Gibson Sotheby’s International Realty

A stately two-story historic home stands amid lush landscaping with mature trees and well-maintained shrubbery. The façade is painted in neutral tones with dark shutters framing tall rectangular windows and a distinctive arched window above the front porch. The porch is supported by simple classical columns, accentuating the home’s traditional architectural details. A sloped roofline with a centered chimney tops the structure. The expansive green lawn leads to a concrete pathway guiding visitors to the entrance, blending natural beauty with the timeless elegance of the home’s design.

Exterior Front View

Betsy Millane of Gibson Sotheby’s International Realty

The view reveals a stately two-story historic home characterized by traditional American architecture. The exterior is clad in taupe-colored siding complemented by white trim, creating a classic contrast. Architectural elements include a gabled roof with decorative vent detail and prominent brick chimneys. A small porch with white railings leads to a side entry, surrounded by mature greenery including trimmed bushes and trees, adding natural charm. The gravel driveway and paths contribute a rustic, inviting feel, blending well with the wooded backdrop and landscaped garden spaces, giving a serene and welcoming country ambiance.

Front Porch and Garden Pathway

Betsy Millane of Gibson Sotheby’s International Realty

This outdoor space displays a charming historic front porch elevated by sturdy, fluted white columns with classical capitals supporting the roof. The porch railing is painted white and features a traditional spindle design, enhancing the vintage appeal. The house’s exterior has horizontal wood siding in a muted taupe shade, complemented by white trim around windows and doors. Stone steps up to the porch blend naturally with the aged brick and stone pathway, overgrown with moss, which winds through low-maintenance garden beds bordered by small stone blocks. Mature shrubs and trees shade the area, lending a tranquil, timeless ambiance.

Garage and Driveway

Betsy Millane of Gibson Sotheby’s International Realty

Two dark brown garage doors with a vertical panel design and black handles are set within a cream-trimmed structure. The sloped shingle roof above the garage complements the traditional aesthetic. Adjacent to the garage, a paved driveway extends with cracks and natural wear, leading towards a porch entry of the house. The house exterior shows taupe siding with white trim around windows and doors. A small set of white stairs leads up to a covered porch with a white railing and a decorative curved arch detail above the doorway. Lush, green, coniferous shrubs create natural privacy along the driveway edge, framed by tall trees under a clear sky.

Entryway with Stained Glass

Betsy Millane of Gibson Sotheby’s International Realty

White paneled front door is flanked by intricately designed stained glass sidelights and a matching transom, all detailed with gold and blue accents. Walls are covered in a warm, subtly textured beige wallpaper with faint marble-like veining. The doorway trim is wide, painted white, with decorative gold laurel wreaths on the corners, enhancing the historical charm. Rich, dark-stained hardwood floors lead into a room adorned with tall windows dressed in burgundy curtains with geometric patterns, hinting at classic elegance. A black wrought iron chandelier with candle-style lights hangs from the high ceiling, adding an old-world sophistication to the space.

Entry Hall Staircase

Betsy Millane of Gibson Sotheby’s International Realty

Curving staircase dominates this inviting hallway, with dark wooden treads contrasting against white risers and delicate white balusters topped with a dark handrail. Walls are covered in textured beige wallpaper with subtle patterns, lending warmth and depth to the space. Rich hardwood flooring extends throughout the hall, complementing the stair’s wood tone. The ceiling is painted a crisp white, enhancing natural brightness. A classic bronze chandelier with candle-style lights hangs above, adding historic elegance. Wide door trims and high baseboards with decorative molding reinforce the traditional architectural details, creating a refined yet welcoming first impression.

Entryway Staircase

Betsy Millane of Gibson Sotheby’s International Realty

Hardwood flooring leads through an inviting entryway where a gracefully curved staircase ascends along the right side. The banister features dark wood handrails contrasted by white spindles, lending a classic yet refined elegance. Walls are adorned with a subtle, textured wallpaper in warm tones, enhancing the historic charm. Above the front door, decorative stained-glass sidelights and a transom window provide soft natural light filtering into the space. A vintage-style chandelier hangs centrally, adding a touch of sophistication and period detail to this welcoming foyer area. A traditional radiator sits under the stairwell, completing the historic feel.

Kitchen Island and Cabinetry

Betsy Millane of Gibson Sotheby’s International Realty

Expansive kitchen with a large central island topped with dark granite, seamlessly blending into the equally dark cabinetry that lines the perimeter. Matte black cabinets with modern hardware provide ample storage beneath a thick granite countertop. The backsplash rises elegantly behind the sink under a window draped with a white shade, allowing natural light to illuminate the workspace. Warm terracotta tile flooring contrasts with the dark finishes, continuing throughout the kitchen and creating a rich, earthy aesthetic. Recessed ceiling lights embedded in a white ceiling add functional brightness, while a built-in desk area and glass doors leading outside hint at openness and connectivity with surrounding greenery.

Kitchen Island and Cabinets

Betsy Millane of Gibson Sotheby’s International Realty

Large kitchen space with dark wooden cabinetry and a central island topped with polished dark granite. The island includes multiple drawers and cabinets for storage, complementing the streamlined lower and upper cabinets along the wall. Walls are painted in warm terracotta tones, contrasting with the sleek black cabinetry. Dual built-in stainless steel ovens are installed into a wall niche, adjacent to a small recessed shelf and cabinet unit with white doors. Floor consists of square terracotta tiles, blending with the wall color. Numerous recessed ceiling lights illuminate the room, enhancing the modern yet rustic aesthetic.

Kitchen Nook and Island

Betsy Millane of Gibson Sotheby’s International Realty

The space combines a cozy kitchen nook with an expansive cooking area. Walls painted in a warm terracotta hue complement the dark cabinetry and kitchen island, creating a striking contrast. The floor features a mix of reddish-brown and black tiles arranged in a grid pattern that visually separates the dining nook area from the kitchen workspace. White built-in cabinets and floating shelves line the nook’s walls, providing functional storage and display space. A large multi-segmented pendant light hangs centrally, adding a unique vintage touch. The room is brightened by natural light from a nearby glass door, enhancing the warm, inviting atmosphere.

Entryway with Tiled Floor

Betsy Millane of Gibson Sotheby’s International Realty

The space has a welcoming entryway or mudroom feel, with a distinctive multicolored tile floor in shades of deep red, mustard yellow, and black arranged in a geometric pattern. Soft lavender walls contrast gently with the white trim and paneled doors, creating a balanced yet vibrant palette. Three classic paneled doors with brass knobs line one wall, likely leading to closets or storage. Two tall glass doors with delicate lace curtains let in natural light, enhancing the airy, bright atmosphere. A floral-patterned area rug in neutral tones adds warmth and texture, complemented by recessed ceiling lights for subtle illumination.

Bathroom Tile Detail

Betsy Millane of Gibson Sotheby’s International Realty

Compact bathroom with a vibrant red and white tile pattern covering the walls and floor creates a striking visual. The tiles are arranged in a geometric border design around the room, with white tiles dominating the upper walls and red tiles below, interspersed with occasional white squares. A white pedestal sink and toilet fit neatly into the room. Gold-toned fixtures, including the faucet, towel holders, and door handle, add a touch of elegance. A sleek glass shelf above the sink holds decorative folded red towels, complementing the tile colors and enhancing the cohesive, classic look.

Entryway and Staircase

Betsy Millane of Gibson Sotheby’s International Realty

Muted lavender walls frame this small entryway with a tiled floor in a grid pattern combining black, reddish-brown, and cream-colored squares. The tile layout creates a bordered effect, drawing the eye towards the stairway straight ahead. The stairs are painted white with dark wooden treads and a simple wooden handrail on one side. A doorway to the left opens into a kitchen area highlighted by warm terracotta-colored walls and cabinetry. White baseboards and door trim contrast the wall colors, and a modern framed artwork adds subtle character to the right wall. The overall style blends vintage elements with understated, warm tones.

Empty Room with Windows

Betsy Millane of Gibson Sotheby’s International Realty

The room features beige walls with white trim around three large windows that allow natural light to fill the space. The ceiling is white and fitted with recessed lighting for an even glow. Gray carpeting covers the floor, contrasting subtly with the warmer wall color. Baseboard heaters run along the bottom of the walls, providing warmth. The windows offer views of greenery outside and a neighboring structure. The overall feel is simple and clean, with ample light and neutral tones that create an inviting yet versatile space, suitable for various uses.

Living Room Fireplace

Betsy Millane of Gibson Sotheby’s International Realty

Spacious room with warm, dark wooden floors contrasts softly with pale cream walls adorned with subtle patterned wallpaper. A prominent white painted fireplace with clean paneling dominates one wall, flanked by vintage brass sconces adding classic charm. Two wide doorways with decorative crown molding lead to adjacent areas, one revealing a radiator and curved staircase. Tall windows framed in white casings and set with burgundy floral curtains, equipped with valances, offer natural light and garden views. The room’s aesthetic evokes vintage elegance with restrained detailing, maintaining an airy, traditional atmosphere.

Living Room Spacious Layout

Betsy Millane of Gibson Sotheby’s International Realty

Generous rectangular living room with polished hardwood flooring and soft beige walls covered in subtle textured wallpaper. Three tall double-hung windows with white decorative casings and pediments top the room’s ample natural light, each window dressed with vintage red and white patterned curtains. White baseboards and crown molding outline the room’s high ceilings, evoking classic architectural details. Two cast iron radiators sit beneath windows, adding period charm. The right side reveals a fireplace hearth inset with slate tiles and a mantel, while a brass wall-mounted light fixture adds a faint historic accent to the otherwise minimally adorned space.

Living Room Seating Area

Betsy Millane of Gibson Sotheby’s International Realty

Wooden floorboards stretch across the room, complementing muted beige striped wallpaper. Two vintage armchairs upholstered in a softly mottled fabric, trimmed with fringe, face a simple white fireplace with classical columns and brick interior. A small chandelier with curved arms and candle-style bulbs hangs from the ceiling, adding subtle elegance. A dark sculptural chair with a checkerboard pattern in its backrest stands near a window draped in deep burgundy curtains with gold accents, tied back neatly. White doors with intricate molding and brass hardware provide symmetry and highlight the room’s historical charm.

Living Room Fireplace Area

Betsy Millane of Gibson Sotheby’s International Realty

The room centers around an intricately detailed white wooden fireplace mantle with classic moldings and decorative columns. Walls are painted a rich, deep blue with white trim running horizontally as a chair rail, enhancing the room’s historic character. Large bay windows allow abundant natural light to flood the space, framed with white trim, and a built-in bench beneath provides seating or storage. The hardwood floors have a warm, natural finish, showing fine grain and subtle wear consistent with age. A bronze-toned chandelier hangs from the simple white ceiling, reinforcing the elegant yet understated aesthetic of this classic living space.

Bathroom Vanity Corner

Betsy Millane of Gibson Sotheby’s International Realty

Deep green square tiles cover the walls creating a rich, dense backdrop accented with patterned border tiles near the ceiling. Two large windows dressed with delicate lace curtains filter soft natural light into the calming space. A white-painted wooden radiator sits under one window, matching the white window trim and contrasting the dark walls. The floor is covered in pale cream square tiles adding brightness and balance. The vanity takes an L-shape with simple, clean-lined white cabinetry featuring brass handles, topped with a white countertop and a rectangular mirror framed by large Hollywood lights. A classic ribbed glass pendant light hangs from the ceiling, combining period charm with functional illumination.

Bathroom Interior

Betsy Millane of Gibson Sotheby’s International Realty

The space includes dark green glossy tiles covering the walls, bordered by a decorative lighter green tile trim near the ceiling. A white bathtub is partially inset into the tiled wall, with gold-colored plumbing fixtures. Opposite the bathtub is a large white vanity with a countertop extending the corner, featuring multiple drawers and gold hardware alongside a round gold towel ring. The flooring contrasts with the walls, presented in light, neutral-colored tiles. Natural light enters through a window adorned with delicate lace curtains. A walk-in shower with a glass enclosure and gold frame stands further in, and a pendant light fixture hangs from the ceiling, adding a subtle modern touch to the room’s vintage charm.

Bedroom with Rose Walls

Betsy Millane of Gibson Sotheby’s International Realty

This airy bedroom highlights warm rose-colored walls contrasted by crisp white trim along the windows and baseboards. Two large windows, adorned with richly patterned red and gold drapes, allow natural light to filter through, highlighting the polished hardwood floors. A decorative dark floral border runs near the ceiling, complementing the curtains and adding a historic touch. The white ceiling fan blends with the ceiling’s bright tone, while a classic white radiator adds character near the corner. The overall ambiance is inviting, with a blend of vintage charm and elegant, muted colors.

Bathroom Vanity Area

Betsy Millane of Gibson Sotheby’s International Realty

A compact bathroom section with a black marble countertop and oval sink, set atop a white vanity cabinet. The walls are half tiled with white tiles edged in black, contrasting against the bold terracotta-red painted upper walls. A large mirror framed in black runs along the countertop, featuring globe-style chrome lighting on top. The floor displays a monochrome mosaic tile pattern, adding vintage charm. White louvered bi-fold closet doors provide storage next to a window fitted with a white blind, contributing natural light while maintaining privacy. Black ceramic soap holders and towel racks complement the color scheme.

Empty Bedroom

Betsy Millane of Gibson Sotheby’s International Realty

Rectangular room painted in a muted teal green color, creating a calm and inviting atmosphere. Two windows with white trim and molded casings allow ample natural light, highlighting the rich, medium-toned hardwood floors with their warm, natural grain. White baseboards and door casings provide classic contrast and frame the space neatly. Mounted brass wall sconces add a touch of vintage charm and ambient lighting. A white door with a brass knob leads to an adjoining space. An air conditioning unit is discreetly installed near the ceiling, blending modern convenience with historic character in this simple but elegant bedroom.

Small Bedroom Interior

Betsy Millane of Gibson Sotheby’s International Realty

A compact bedroom painted in a soft peach tone with subtle small dot wallpaper texture. The room has a beige carpet floor that shows gentle signs of wear. A single window with sheer white curtains allows natural light to brighten the space. The walls are lined with traditional white baseboards and trim around the window and doorways. A small step leads through a white paneled door into an adjacent room with blue-green tiled walls, creating a contrast. Brass wall-mounted light fixtures add a vintage touch to the otherwise simple design. The room’s proportions and finishes reflect an early 20th-century style with modest detailing.

Empty Bedroom Corner

Betsy Millane of Gibson Sotheby’s International Realty

Two windows meet at a corner, each framed by white trim and vintage-style curtain tiebacks. One window has sheer white curtains with patterned tiebacks, while the other has black and white geometric patterned drapes drawn halfway open. Gray wallpaper with a subtle diamond lattice pattern covers the walls, complementing the crisp white baseboards and window frames. The floor is covered with worn beige carpeting, showing some signs of age near the corners. A brass wall sconce without a shade is mounted on one wall, adding an antique touch. Soft natural light gently filters through, brightening the otherwise neutral, understated room.

Upper Loft Area

Betsy Millane of Gibson Sotheby’s International Realty

A spacious upper loft with sloped ceilings complements this light-filled area. Soft beige walls blend with a similar beige carpet, creating a warm and neutral backdrop. A prominent structural column stands in the middle, flanked by low angled walls that emphasize the attic-like shape. Natural light enters through skylights, casting bright rectangular sunlight patches on the floor. A wooden banister with turned posts edges the stairwell, adding a classic touch. A modern wall sconce provides additional lighting near a translucent glass door on the far wall, highlighting a blend of traditional and contemporary elements.

Attic Bedroom

Betsy Millane of Gibson Sotheby’s International Realty

Two twin beds with light blue quilted bedspreads and matching pillows are positioned under a sharply sloped ceiling, typical of an attic or converted upper room. The walls are painted a warm beige, contrasting subtly with the white ceiling. A small round table with a soft pink fabric cover is placed between the beds, adding a gentle touch of color. A single vintage-style wall sconce with a glass cover provides lighting on the left side. The door is white with traditional hardware, and the floor is covered in a neutral light beige carpet, enhancing the cozy and inviting atmosphere.

Attic Bedroom

Betsy Millane of Gibson Sotheby’s International Realty

Soft blue walls envelop a cozy attic bedroom with slanted ceilings and two skylights that usher in natural light. A small window beside an old-fashioned dark radiator is framed with matching pale blue curtains, adding a gentle decorative touch. Creamy white trim accents the baseboards, door, and window frame, creating classic contrast. The beige carpet adds warmth underfoot, complementing the soft color palette. A simple wall sconce illuminates the space softly. The room’s peaceful ambiance is ideal for retreat, balancing traditional radiator charm with the calmness of pastel hues and modern light fixtures.

Bathroom with Sloped Ceiling

Betsy Millane of Gibson Sotheby’s International Realty

White tiled walls accented with a decorative terra-cotta border at ceiling height and mid-wall add subtle charm to this bathroom. The terracotta floor tiles complement the warm tones in the trim. The room has a sloped ceiling above the bathtub, creating a cozy nook with a shower curtain rod angled to fit. A pedestal sink with gold-toned faucet fixtures and matching wall sconces flanking a framed mirror give the space a classic, vintage-inspired appeal. A shelf above the toilet holds neatly folded towels. Light blue bath mats and a wicker basket bring texture and softness to the room.

Listing Agent: Betsy Millane of Gibson Sotheby’s International Realty via Zillow 

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