Built in 1881, this elegant Victorian home in Dubuque, Iowa, blends historic charm with thoughtful updates. Priced at $214,900, it features 2,580 square feet of living space on a 0.18-acre lot. Original elements include stained glass windows, coffered ceilings, hardwood floors, and built-ins. A spacious wraparound porch and brand-new 2025 boiler add appeal. Located near Loras College, this four-bedroom, two-bath home offers timeless architecture and investment potential.

Aerial View

From above, this stately Victorian showcases its symmetrical design, wraparound porch, and corner lot placement. The well-maintained landscaping features an antique fountain, mature trees, and an expansive lawn. The home’s red brick exterior stands out against the surrounding neighborhood. A spacious driveway and attached two-car garage offer convenient parking. This bird’s-eye perspective highlights the blend of historical elegance and modern functionality that makes this 1881 property truly unique.

Where is Dubuque?

Dubuque, located in northeastern Iowa, sits along the scenic Mississippi River at the junction of Iowa, Illinois, and Wisconsin. Just a few hours from Chicago and Des Moines, Dubuque is known for its rich history, 19th-century architecture, and cultural attractions. Highlights include the National Mississippi River Museum, a vibrant downtown, and historic colleges. With stunning river views and a welcoming community, Dubuque offers both beauty and heritage in one charming city.

Side Yard 

The home’s side yard provides a peaceful, open lawn bordered by evergreens and mature shade trees. A charming fountain adds a classic touch to the serene landscaping. This space offers excellent potential for a garden, outdoor seating area, or recreational activities. The red brick exterior bathes in afternoon sunlight, enhancing the warm, welcoming atmosphere. It’s a tranquil, private green space that complements the historical character of the property beautifully.

Wraparound Porch

This classic Victorian wraparound porch exudes timeless charm with its rounded design, ornate white railing, and spacious floorboards painted in soft green. Original architectural details create a perfect setting for relaxing afternoons or morning coffee. Natural sunlight casts elegant shadows through the columns, adding visual depth. The porch spans the front and side of the house, enhancing curb appeal while serving as a functional and inviting outdoor living space.

Upper Deck

The upper-level deck is a rare and valuable feature, offering a private outdoor escape. The vibrant blue flooring contrasts beautifully with the home’s historic red brick exterior and crisp white railing. Spacious enough for outdoor furniture or entertaining, the deck overlooks the surrounding historic neighborhood. This elevated space provides both function and charm, creating a versatile spot for relaxation or hosting guests—an ideal addition to this vintage Victorian gem.

Living Room

This grand living room combines historic elegance with modern comfort. Crown molding, ornate trim work, and classical columns frame the space while rich natural light pours in through tall windows. The neutral walls and carpet complement the architectural details, creating a warm and refined atmosphere. A decorative fireplace and vintage light fixtures offer period charm, making this room perfect for entertaining or cozy evenings. It’s a beautiful centerpiece for this 1881 home.

Dining Room

The formal dining room is a showstopper, featuring original hardwood floors, coffered ceilings, and stunning built-in cabinetry. Rich wood paneling lines the walls, adding depth and character. A central vintage chandelier hangs above a round dining table, while the brick fireplace anchors the space with timeless appeal. This room offers a stately yet welcoming setting, ideal for gatherings or special occasions. It effortlessly blends historic craftsmanship with classic style and warmth.

Bathroom

This bright and compact bathroom features a clean, vintage design with modern touches. Soft white tile with subtle pink detailing wraps the walls, while sleek marble-style flooring adds a polished look. A pedestal sink and classic fixtures blend seamlessly with the historic charm of the home. A small window allows natural light to filter in, keeping the space cheerful and functional. Thoughtfully designed, this bathroom makes efficient use of every inch.

Kitchen

The kitchen combines classic structure with updated appliances and finishes. Crisp white cabinetry contrasts beautifully against warm peach-toned walls and stainless-steel appliances, including a refrigerator, oven, and dishwasher. The subway tile backsplash and brushed nickel hardware add a modern flair. The light-toned flooring brightens the space, while the compact L-shaped layout maximizes efficiency. This space offers modern convenience in a setting that still respects the home’s traditional charm and architectural roots.

Stained Glass Staircase

One of the home’s most striking features, the grand staircase, is bathed in color from the ornate stained glass windows that line the landing. Intricate floral patterns in jewel tones of red, green, gold, and turquoise glow in the natural light. Original woodwork frames each panel, and the carved wooden banister adds depth and elegance. This breathtaking detail is both a work of art and a vivid reminder of the home’s Victorian origins.

Bedroom

This sunlit bedroom is cheerful and inviting, painted in a soft sky blue with floral wallpaper border accents. Three tall windows bring in abundant natural light and frame views of the surrounding historic neighborhood. White trim and decorative columns add architectural charm, while neutral carpeting offers comfort underfoot. A ceiling fan with a light fixture completes the space, creating a bright and airy retreat that is ideal for rest and relaxation in this timeless home.

Upstairs Hallway

The upper hallway is a stunning transition space, highlighted by the dramatic stained glass window ensemble that brightens the stairwell with color. Natural light floods in through large side windows, casting a warm glow on the soft carpet and classic wood banisters. The space feels open and inviting, with clean white walls and subtle crown molding. At the hallway’s end, a bathroom awaits, tying together style and function in this graceful passage.

Blue Bedroom

This spacious bedroom offers a calming atmosphere with bold blue walls and plush, neutral carpeting. A large window invites in natural light, while high ceilings and white trim add dimension and elegance. The room features subtle Victorian-era touches like deep window casings and thick baseboards. Perfect as a primary or guest bedroom, the space is versatile and bright, ready to be personalized while maintaining the home’s classic charm.

Small Bedroom

This cozy bedroom is perfect for a home office, nursery, or guest retreat. Soft gray walls and beige carpeting give it a calming, neutral palette, while the tall window provides great natural light. Vintage details include wide trim, a built-in radiator, and an original closet door with carved molding. Though compact, the room feels airy and functional, reflecting the thoughtful layout typical of historic homes from the late 1800s.

Upstairs Bathroom

The second-floor bathroom blends charm and function with a classic claw-foot tub surrounded by white tile. A pedestal sink and round mirror with decorative trim add vintage appeal, while soft gray walls and patterned tile flooring enhance the clean, timeless feel. A tall window offers beautiful natural light, making the space feel fresh and bright. This well-maintained bathroom perfectly balances modern utility with the historic character of the home.

Driveway & Parking

This rear entry and driveway area provides off-street parking with plenty of space, a valuable feature in a historic neighborhood. A blend of stone, brick, and concrete creates texture and visual interest, while steps lead up to the wraparound porch for easy access. Surrounded by mature trees and fencing, the space offers both function and privacy. The attached two-car garage and wide drive make daily life convenient in this timeless setting.

Basement Laundry

The home’s unfinished basement offers a spacious laundry area with vintage utility sinks, original stone walls, and ample room for storage or workspace. Equipped with a washer and dryer, plus a long countertop and cabinets, this area balances utility with historic charm. Soft lighting and a small window provide brightness, while exposed beams and painted stone lend a rustic, authentic vibe. It’s a practical space with potential for further customization.

Attached Garage

The home’s attached two-car garage offers ample space for parking and storage, with a wide overhead door and concrete flooring. Exposed brick and weathered white walls reflect the home’s 19th-century foundation, giving the garage a rugged, utilitarian charm. A structural beam runs overhead, and the space is lit by a single ceiling fixture. Whether used for vehicles, hobbies, or extra storage, this garage adds practical value to the historic property.

Workshop Space

This multi-use garage area doubles as a potential workshop, complete with built-in shelving, a sturdy wooden workbench, and painted brick walls that show off the home’s age and character. The room offers generous open floor space and a dedicated entry door for easy access. Soft overhead lighting and original masonry add a rustic feel, making it ideal for DIY projects, crafts, or tool storage. It’s a versatile space with an authentic vintage appeal.

Listing Agent: Mozena Realty Group via Zillow