Situated in Philadelphia’s esteemed Rittenhouse Square, the historic Cadwalader Mansion, built in 1866 as a wedding gift, blends French Second Empire architecture with modern luxury. This five-story limestone home, distinct for its multicolor mansard roof and extensive original details, includes 5,752 sq ft across four levels plus a daylight basement with a 650-bottle wine cellar. Features a gourmet kitchen, elevator service, marble fireplaces, and a Tiffany chandelier-adorned library. The property spans a 22×150 ft lot and offers updated HVAC and security systems. Once the French Consulate, it’s available for $4,325,000, impeccably preserved and recently enhanced for contemporary living.

Historic Front Entrance

The entrance showcases a grand double door painted in deep black with intricate ironwork detailing on the upper panels, framed by ornate stone craftsmanship. Above the door, the house number “2102” is subtly engraved into the stone lintel, adding a classic touch. The building’s exterior combines warm red brick contrasted by beige stone trim, emphasizing traditional historic American architecture. A lush green tree leans slightly toward the entrance, complemented by two modern black planters filled with green shrubs and pink flowers on either side of the steps, blending natural elements with stately design.

Balcony Entrance

A small balcony with weathered wooden decking and an aged iron railing creates a quaint outdoor space. The balcony is attached to a building with beautiful historic wood-framed windows and door, painted in a distressed teal and turquoise finish that enhances the old-world charm. Two stone planters with white and purple flowers soften the architectural elements. Beyond the balcony, dark red brick buildings frame the space. Inside, glimpse of a warm interior shows polished wood floors, a classic wooden dresser, wainscoting, and a framed floral painting, suggesting a refined traditional style.

Dining Room Entrance

The entrance reveals a charming dining room framed by rustic greenish-blue aged wood with peeling paint that adds historic character. Tall windows flank the entryway, allowing natural light to enhance the warm, inviting atmosphere. Inside, a long wooden dining table is surrounded by high-back chairs upholstered in a muted pattern resting on a richly colored oriental rug. White paneled walls reflect the crystal chandelier’s soft glow above, adding elegance. Hardwood floors run seamlessly from the doorway into the room, emphasizing the blend of timeless architectural details and classic furnishings.

Backyard Garden Patio

A serene backyard garden with a stone pathway leading down small steps to a cozy stone patio area furnished with a round metal table and chairs. A variety of lush greenery and colorful plants frame the walkway, including a Japanese maple with striking reddish-orange leaves. The patio sits adjacent to a textured brick wall and a tall wooden fence that offers privacy. The house exterior combines classic brickwork and large black-framed windows, while mature trees and vibrant shrubs add a natural, tranquil ambiance under a bright blue sky.

Outdoor Patio Seating

Wrought iron furniture with intricate lattice designs surrounds an oval table set on large stone pavers. The space is framed by a combination of red brick and smooth plaster walls, lending a mix of rustic and refined textures. A narrow doorway with minimal adornment provides a view into a shaded courtyard lined with trees and brickwork. Overhead, branches with green foliage partially shade the seating area, while a subtle decorative element sits above the doorway. Fallen leaves scattered on the stones and chairs add a natural, lived-in feel, emphasizing the connection to the outdoors.

Historic Rear Facade

The rear view of a historic townhouse illustrates a striking blend of materials and architectural styles. The central portion is distinguished by oxidized green copper cladding around a three-story bay window with dark-framed, multi-pane windows. Flanking this are rich red brick walls punctuated by large arched and rectangular windows with black trim. Ornamental brickwork cornices and a slate roof with a turret add to the intricate historic charm. A raised wooden deck and staircase lead down to a small, lush garden enclosed by modern horizontal wooden fencing and a wrought-iron gate, creating a harmonious mix of old and new design elements.

Backyard Patio

A charming backyard patio featuring a mix of lush greenery and architectural elements. The space is paved with large stone slabs forming a clean, natural floor. Black wrought-iron furniture, including a table and five chairs, provides an elegant, classic outdoor dining area adorned with a flower vase centerpiece. Surrounding the patio, a variety of plants and flowering bushes add vibrant greens and soft textures. A wooden fence topped with decorative arches offers privacy and character, while the historic brick walls and a weathered metal-framed sunroom embody the rustic, vintage aesthetic of an old urban home. Large leafy branches partly shade the space, creating a serene retreat.

Rooftop Patio Seating

A cozy rooftop patio with neutral toned wood decking offers city skyline views under a partly cloudy blue sky. The seating area includes cushioned wicker chairs, a loveseat adorned with patterned pillows, and two wooden armchairs with light blue and striped cushions. A glass-top metal coffee table centers the arrangement. A stainless steel gas grill sits adjacent to a small brick chimney, adding outdoor cooking functionality. The rooftop’s brown-trimmed windows and door blend rustic and urban design elements, complemented by black railing enclosing the space, creating an inviting, relaxed atmosphere perfect for entertaining or lounging.

Wine Cellar Storage

An intimate, well-organized wine cellar with custom-built wooden racks lining all three walls, designed to hold individual bottles horizontally. The wood is light-toned with a natural finish, complementing the dark matte ceiling above, which has modern recessed lighting for clear illumination. Bottles of various sizes and vintages are neatly stored, with some displaying visible labels and tags for easy identification. The cellar floor is a light gray tile arranged in a diagonal pattern, adding subtle elegance. This space is dedicated to wine preservation and display, blending functionality with warm, classic craftsmanship.

Garage Exterior

A garage with two doors, one open and one closed, set beneath a sloped metal roof with a weathered green patina. The building structure is partially brick with concrete framing around the garage entrances. A prominent tree with thick, textured bark stands in front, casting dappled shadow across the sidewalk and garage. Surrounding buildings show a mix of brick and painted exteriors, with a modern balcony and lounging area visible in the distance. The lush green leaves of the tree provide a natural canopy, creating a blend of urban and organic elements.

Historic Brownstone Facade

A classic streetscape of an American historic neighborhood featuring two adjacent brownstones. The left building is a red brick structure with a detailed cornice and three arched dormer windows on the slate mansard roof. Its window frames are painted dark, contrasting with the brick. The right building has a lighter stone facade with intricately carved window surrounds, bay windows, and a graceful arched black door. Large trees with lush green leaves partially obscure the buildings, giving a shaded and inviting sidewalk atmosphere typical of well-established urban residential areas. The combination of brick, stone, and ironwork illustrates diverse historic architectural detailing.

Entry Hallway Details

The narrow hallway near the entrance showcases classic architectural charm with white walls accented by decorative molding and wainscoting. Natural light filters in through tall windows near the door, illuminating the polished hardwood floors and a traditional oriental rug runner. Ornate transom windows above the door add historical character, complemented by intricate ironwork on the glass entry doors. A crystal chandelier hangs from the ceiling, adding elegance and sparkle. The wall holds an impressionistic painting, and a black sculptural coat rack and framed mirror balance the space with functional decor and reflective depth.

Living Room Seating Area

A serene living room centered around an elegant carved fireplace with classical ornamentation, topped by a large, gold-framed mirror reflecting a crystal chandelier. Four mid-century style armchairs with light blue upholstery and geometric patterns are arranged symmetrically around a square wooden coffee table with a glass inset and displaying art books and a sculptural centerpiece. Pale walls and intricate crown molding create a refined atmosphere. On the left, a vibrant landscape painting with a dramatic sky contrasts with the muted palette. To the right, a framed impressionistic painting and a simple wooden console add warmth and balance.

Elegant Living Room

The space centers around a classic white marble fireplace adorned with intricate carvings and topped by a large, ornate gold-framed mirror, reflecting the room’s grandeur. Soft wood flooring contrasts with a light-colored rug that anchors four wooden-framed armchairs upholstered in a pale patterned fabric around a glass-topped square coffee table. Elegant crystal chandeliers hang from a high ceiling with detailed molding, enhancing the room’s historic charm. Walls are painted white with decorative wainscoting, and the area includes traditional furniture pieces such as a piano and a wooden chest, creating a refined yet inviting atmosphere.

Living Room Seating Area

Tall, multi-paned bay windows flood the room with natural light, highlighting a striking crystal chandelier hanging from a vaulted ceiling adorned with detailed crown molding. A grand fireplace with sculpted caryatids and an ornate gold-framed mirror above anchors one side of the room. Soft pastel upholstery on armchairs and a striped loveseat add subtle color while polished wooden furniture pieces introduce warmth and contrast. The floor combines wood and a pale area rug, blending elegance with comfort. Classic art pieces and decorative vases arranged thoughtfully enhance the refined, historic American aesthetic of this sitting space.

Living Room Bay Window

Three tall, arched bay windows framed in white allow abundant natural light to fill this elegant living room area. The pale mint green walls complement the vintage-style furnishings, including a wooden settee with striped upholstery in warm tones, adorned with a floral embroidered pillow. Two high-back armchairs in a soft green fabric flank the settee, creating a symmetrical seating arrangement. A glass-topped coffee table with dark wooden legs sits in front, holding decorative objects that add character. The rich hardwood flooring and classic architectural trim reflect historic charm and timeless refinement.

Living Room Seating Area

Large bay windows framed with white trim invite abundant natural light into this cozy living room nook. The walls are painted a soft, calming grayish-blue, offset by elegant crown molding painted white. A wooden settee with striped upholstery in warm hues anchors the space, flanked by a pair of comfortable armchairs in muted blue and green shades. The dark wood coffee table with a decorative surface sits atop a patterned area rug on herringbone wood floors. A vintage wooden dresser holds a framed antique map, adding a historic charm paired with a simple vase of greenery for a fresh touch.

Entry Hall and Staircase

A bright entry hall with polished hardwood floors bordered by a darker inlay, welcoming through a spacious layout. Walls are painted crisp white with traditional wainscoting and crown molding accentuating the historic architectural charm. A carved wooden staircase with white spindles curves gracefully upwards, providing an elegant focal point. Two doorways flank the stairwell, framed with detailed trim and opening into adjoining rooms. Warm lighting from a classic pendant fixture highlights the soft neutral palette and the subtle artwork hung on the walls. Furnishings include a dark wood chest with brass handles and a simple wooden chair, complemented by a richly patterned Persian rug and rustic wooden table adorned with candles and decorative items.

Entry Hall and Staircase

Elegant entry hall with warm hardwood flooring and classic white paneled walls accented by detailed crown molding. A rich, dark wood corner cabinet filled with fine china stands beside a simple wood chair and a narrow table holding decorative pottery. An oriental rug adds a layer of intricate pattern and deep color. The staircase curves gracefully upward with white balusters and a polished dark wood handrail. Arched doorways and glass-paneled doors lead into adjoining rooms, enhancing the historic charm and inviting flow. A traditional hanging light fixture completes the refined and welcoming ambiance.

Entry Hall and Staircase

A classic entry hall with white painted walls features elegant wainscoting and trim that accentuate the historic architectural style. A richly stained wooden staircase with white balusters and a polished handrail curves gracefully upwards on the left side. Beneath the staircase, a dark wood chest with vintage brass handles holds a vase of fresh greenery, while a woven chair sits beside it. The hardwood flooring is a warm honey tone with a subtle patterned inlay framing the doorway. Artwork includes a framed watercolor of trees centered at the far end, flanked by smaller sketches. To the right, an adjoining room with a large landscape painting brings bright blue and green hues into the composition. Decorative candle holders on a wooden surface add a touch of old-world charm.

Entry Hallway Details

Arched doorway with detailed molding leads into a bright hallway. White walls with classic wainscoting and chair rails frame the space elegantly. Hardwood floors feature intricate inlays and a narrowly laid Oriental runner rug adds color and pattern. Antique wooden console tables hold decorative ceramic vases and a glass bowl, adding warmth. A vintage coat rack and a stylized metal deer candle holder stand near a framed mirror that reflects light from a sparkling chandelier. The far entrance has tall glass-paneled doors with an overhead fanlight window, contributing to a historic, refined ambiance.

Bathroom Sink Detail

The bathroom sink is a classic white porcelain basin with a gently scalloped front edge, evoking vintage charm. Two separate polished chrome faucets with traditional cross handles indicate a historic style. A built-in backsplash curves softly upward, seamlessly integrating with the countertop. Above the sink hangs a rectangular mirror framed in rich black and gold, adding a touch of sophistication and warmth to the otherwise cool-toned, pale blue wall space. To the side, a chrome towel ring holds a white hand towel, while a matching glass soap dish extends from the wall, completing the elegant and refined aesthetic of the bathroom area.

Entry Hall and Staircase

Elegant entry hall with warm, polished hardwood flooring bordered by darker wood inlay. White walls adorned with subtle panel moldings and delicate crown trim reach up to a high ceiling, emphasizing a bright, airy ambiance. A grand staircase curves gracefully upward, featuring white spindles and a dark stained wooden handrail that adds contrast and classic charm. To the left, a wooden cabinet with glass doors displays fine china, while a framed glass-paned door stands next to it. Through a stately rounded archway lies a distant dining room with large windows and a chandelier, inviting further exploration.

Formal Dining Room

A long rectangular dining table surrounded by ten wooden chairs with patterned upholstery sits atop a richly colored Persian-style rug. The walls are adorned with elegant white wainscoting and intricate moldings, creating a classic and refined atmosphere. An ornate, gilded mirror hangs above a marble fireplace with a roaring fire, adding warmth and grandeur. Floor-to-ceiling windows flood the room with natural light and offer a view of lush greenery outside. The ceiling boasts a detailed crown molding and a large, multi-tiered crystal chandelier, amplifying the historical charm throughout the room. Dark wooden dressers and side tables line the walls, decorated with art and antique accessories. Light-colored walls contrast beautifully with the dark wood elements and warm hardwood flooring.

Compact Kitchen Nook

White cabinetry complements the clean, crisp white walls, emphasizing the kitchen’s compact and functional design. The gas stove and refrigerator are tucked neatly under a sloped ceiling, indicative of an attic or under-stair space. Black granite countertops with white veining contrast sharply with the bright whites, adding a touch of elegance. The hardwood floor adds warmth to the space, while a single pendant light illuminates the area over the stainless steel sink. Art adorns the wall, along with a decorative wooden plaque, infusing personality and a quaint, homey vibe to the kitchen nook.

Kitchen Bar Area

Compact kitchen corner with white cabinetry and brass hardware contrasts against a sleek black marble countertop veined with white. Above, glass-front cabinets reveal neatly stacked dishes and glassware, while two glass shelves display an array of liquor bottles and assorted cocktail glasses, introducing a mini bar vibe. The ceiling slopes downward, creating a cozy, intimate nook. A wooden wine rack and a vase with greenery add warmth and texture. The space opens into another room with hardwood floors and traditional white trim, highlighting a classic, elegant design that blends functionality with vintage charm.

Kitchen Countertop and Bar

White cabinetry with classic brass hardware lines the kitchen, topped by striking black marble countertops with natural white veining. The hardwood floor brings warmth to the predominantly white space. A gas stove with four burners is visible on the left, adjacent to a contemporary bar area holding various liquor bottles and glassware on two glass shelves. A large window above the sink floods the kitchen with natural light, revealing a quiet outdoor area with brick walls and greenery. A simple industrial pendant light hangs overhead, and the doorway leads to an elegant dining room with a fireplace and detailed moldings.

Dining Room with Patio Access

Elegant dining area with high ceilings and classic crown molding painted in creamy white. Large, multi-pane French doors open to a small, verdant patio space framed by lush greenery and an iron railing. The room’s floors are polished hardwood with intricate bordering detail. A polished wooden dining table, surrounded by carved wooden chairs, centrally anchors the space. Against the wall, a sideboard holds a vintage lamp, ceramic tea set, and a silver candelabra with candles. Tall, wide sash windows with muntins flank the doors, filling the room with abundant natural light and blending indoor and outdoor spaces.

Home Office and Sitting Area

The room contains a spacious home office with rich wooden desks, including one with a mesh office chair and computer setup. Two leather armchairs with accent pillows face a large wooden desk positioned near a set of wide windows that allow natural light to fill the space. Classic window treatments include textured curtain panels and woven shades, adding warmth to the room. A traditional red and blue Persian rug anchors the seating area. The white walls and ceiling feature intricate molding details, and a crystal chandelier hangs overhead. A marble fireplace with an ornate wooden mantle adds historic charm, while a flat-screen TV and framed art enhance the sophisticated but inviting ambiance.

Kitchen and Dining Area

The kitchen features white cabinetry with classic raised panel doors and dark hardware, creating a timeless look. The backsplash and countertops are a sleek, dark stone, adding contrast to the light cabinets. A large island with similar cabinetry includes drawers and seating with two floral-patterned bar stools. Above the island, two pendant lights hang from a ceiling with inset skylights, providing ample natural and artificial light. Hardwood floors with a warm tone span both the kitchen and adjacent dining area, which contains a large, dark wooden table surrounded by matching chairs. Large windows and glass doors bring in natural light and showcase views beyond, framed by soft gray moldings, combining traditional charm with a clean, modern aesthetic.

Listing Agent: Mary Genovese Colvin of Compass RE via Zillow