Stunning 1881 Victorian Residence in Massachusetts With Curved Windows, Italian Tile Fireplaces, and a Flat Landscaped Lot for Entertaining

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.

Allison Blank of Compass

The John Souther House, built circa 1888, is a beautifully renovated Victorian located in Newton. This historic home blends classic architectural elegance with modern luxury, featuring intricate curved windows, original stained glass, Italian tile fireplaces, and ornate woodwork. Set on a ¾-acre level lot, it boasts a brand-new synthetic slate roof installed in 2025. The spacious interior includes a chef’s kitchen, en suite bedrooms, and a spa-like primary suite with radiant heated floors. Additional highlights are a fully finished carriage house and recreational spaces like a gym and game room. Priced at $4,475,000, this residence offers easy access to Boston, Cambridge, MIT, Harvard, and top schools, perfectly combining history with contemporary convenience.

Historic Home Exterior

Allison Blank of Compass

A large historic American house with classic Victorian architecture stands prominently on a well-maintained green lawn. The home is painted in a soft beige with cream trim details, emphasizing its detailed woodwork including the shingled upper facade and ornamental panels on the prominent rounded turret. The turret features tall, rectangular windows framed with intricate molded designs. A tall brick chimney rises beside steeply pitched gables, highlighting the house’s vertical grandeur. The wide veranda wraps around the front, supported by elegant columns, creating a welcoming outdoor space with lush shrubs lining the perimeter. Seasonal trees frame the property, adding to its timeless and stately appearance.

Garage and Driveway

Allison Blank of Compass

A spacious driveway made of textured asphalt is framed by neat cobblestone edging, leading up to a three-car garage with cream-colored paneled doors that complement the home’s muted taupe siding. A distinctive turret with multiple windows adds a historic architectural charm to the garage structure, while mature evergreen trees and neatly maintained shrubbery border the driveway, offering privacy and greenery. A basketball hoop attached to a tall hedge line suggests a family-friendly outdoor recreation spot. Bare deciduous trees in the backdrop hint at late autumn or early winter, contrasting with the evergreens for a natural, serene setting.

Living Room Seating Area

Allison Blank of Compass

Soft cream walls contrast with the dark wood trim and rich wood flooring. A large plush beige sofa with neutral patterned throw pillows is positioned alongside a classic leather armchair and matching ottoman in warm caramel tones. The centerpiece is a wooden coffee table with glass inserts, resting on a textured, off-white area rug with a subtle diamond pattern. An open staircase with intricately turned dark wood balusters and handrails adds historic charm, leading to a second-floor balcony overlooking the room. Light filters in through wood-trimmed windows, enhancing the warm, inviting atmosphere.

Backyard Patio Seating

Allison Blank of Compass

A serene backyard patio with natural stone flooring extends from a white wooden deck with classic balustrades. Neutral-toned cushioned seating, including a loveseat and two armchairs, surrounds a low rectangular table, creating an inviting social area. Tall outdoor heaters flank the space, offering warmth during cooler evenings. The lush lawn beyond is bordered by dense shrubbery and mature deciduous and evergreen trees, providing privacy and seasonal color variations. A basketball hoop stands near the driveway on the left, blending casual recreation with stylish outdoor living in this spacious, well-maintained garden setting.

Back Patio Lounge Area

Allison Blank of Compass

Spacious stone-paved patio with two wooden chaise lounges featuring light beige cushions positioned near a classic beige-sided exterior wall. Multiple white-framed windows and double glass doors provide natural light and access to the indoors. White wooden stair railings flank the steps leading to the patio, enhancing its traditional charm. Decorative lantern-style wall sconces add historic elegance to the exterior. The presence of lush green bushes and potted plants softens the hardscape, while a standing outdoor heater and woven ottoman suggest comfort during cooler months. The outdoor space balances functional relaxation with timeless, colonial-inspired design.

Historic Home Exterior

Allison Blank of Compass

A stately, multi-story home with classic American architectural style stands surrounded by a sprawling lawn. The facade features light beige siding complemented by white trim around windows and doors, with black shutters adding contrast. The roof is steeply pitched with multiple gables and dormers, incorporating dark shingles. A rounded turret and covered porch add charm and character, while mature trees and shrubbery frame the property. Extensive green lawn stretches in the foreground, and a soft warm sunlight filters through branches, lending a tranquil, timeless ambiance to the scene.

Elegant Entryway

Allison Blank of Compass

Bright and inviting, this entryway is characterized by its rich dark hardwood floors that contrast beautifully with the light cream walls adorned with intricate wainscoting and subtle damask wallpaper. A staircase with carpeted steps and dark wood banisters leads to the upper level, bathed in natural light from stained glass windows featuring warm amber tones. The mantelpiece fireplace boasts ornate white molding and shiny brown tile surrounding the firebox, topped with three small portraits. A round wooden pedestal table with a decorative bowl stands atop a large beige patterned rug, complementing a single antique chair and a narrow side table with a vase of dried branches.

Stairwell Stained Glass

Allison Blank of Compass

Two square stained glass windows with warm yellow and amber hues are centered within a white framed recess, casting soft colored light. The design includes a central wreath motif with delicate red floral accents in each corner, bordered by textured, rectangular glass pieces. Surrounding the windows, creamy wallpaper with subtle floral patterns complements the intricate molding and fluted columns that add classical architectural detail. A white staircase railing with slender balusters is partially visible to the right, enhancing the historic charm and elegance of this bright transitional space.

Entry Hallway Detail

Allison Blank of Compass

Light cream damask wallpaper adorns the walls above classic white wainscoting, creating an elegant yet warm atmosphere. The floor combines rich dark wood and a bordered tile section, complementing the large cream area rug. A stately wooden grandfather clock anchors the space beside a round pedestal table with an ornate bowl centerpiece. Through wide doorways with detailed molding, adjoining rooms reveal contrasting palettes: a soft blue dining area with formal chairs, a bright white sitting room, and a richly colored red living room featuring a decorative fireplace, patterned rug, and plush, rounded ottomans, blending historic charm with inviting comfort.

Living Room Details

Allison Blank of Compass

The living room is painted in a deep, warm red that envelops the built-in entertainment center and shelves surrounding a large flat-screen TV. Classic white crown molding and a coffered ceiling contrast with the bold wall color. A white fireplace with intricate detailing anchors the room, adding historic charm. Large windows with patterned roman shades bring in natural light, balancing the richness of the walls. An oversized beige sectional sofa crowned with colorful throw pillows in blue, pink, and brown creates a cozy seating area. The floor is layered with a vibrant, multi-colored patterned rug, complemented by three large, tufted, round ottomans in soft pink, blue, and mauve hues. The ornate light fixture overhead adds a subtle, elegant touch to the room’s warm and eclectic aesthetic.

Living Room Seating Area

Allison Blank of Compass

A spacious living room bathed in natural light from a curved bay window dressed with floor-length beige curtains. The neutral cream walls and matching carpet create a soft backdrop for vibrant accents, including a turquoise velvet armchair and a black wood chair upholstered in red fabric. A modern floral artwork with bright pink and blue tones hangs above a white sofa adorned with teal and pink cushions. The dark wood coffee table holds decorative items, while matching floral armchairs face the fireplace, which is topped with a classic painting in an ornate gold frame. An elegant dark wood cabinet stands beside the fireplace, adding warmth and historic charm.

Music Nook

Allison Blank of Compass

A polished baby grand piano sits gracefully in a serene, rounded nook surrounded by sweeping floor-to-ceiling windows. Soft beige curtains frame the windows, complementing the light neutral walls and enhancing the airy, sunlit atmosphere. The piano’s rich wood finish contrasts beautifully with a deep teal tufted leather ottoman on traditional wooden legs, positioned centrally on a pale circular rug. The curved wall design creates an inviting, intimate space that encourages musical performance or quiet reflection. Outside, mature trees and classic porch details hint at the home’s historic character while blending interior warmth and natural light.

Elegant Dining Room

Allison Blank of Compass

Soft pastel blue walls enhance the airy ambiance, complemented by white crown molding and large windows with intricately patterned scalloped valances. A striking crystal chandelier hangs above a dark polished wooden oval dining table surrounded by eight tufted, beige upholstered chairs with dark wood legs and nailhead trim. The hardwood floor gleams under natural light, seamlessly transitioning to an adjoining living space. The connected room features neutral-toned sofas, vibrant cushions, a bright turquoise armchair, and floral seating, introducing playful pops of color that contrast with the muted elegance of the dining area.

Kitchen Island Seating

Allison Blank of Compass

White cabinetry with brass knobs lines the walls, contrasting with the rich dark wood of the central kitchen island. The island boasts a polished granite countertop and is surrounded by four upholstered bar stools with wooden frames. Hardwood flooring extends throughout, adding warmth and texture to the bright room. A brass chandelier with candle-style lights hangs above the island, lending a vintage elegance. Stainless steel double ovens are built into the cabinetry, and a stainless steel range hood is positioned above the stove. Large windows and French doors open to a lush outdoor garden, flooding the kitchen with natural light.

Kitchen and Dining Area

Allison Blank of Compass

Long, narrow kitchen lined with creamy white cabinetry featuring brass cup handles and classic detailing. A stainless steel range with red knobs sits beneath a substantial vent hood, complemented by a subtle, light-colored mosaic tile backsplash. The countertop appears to be a soft speckled granite or quartz, blending elegantly with the neutral palette. A farmhouse-style apron sink with ornate metallic fixtures adds vintage charm. Hardwood floors run the length of the space, softened by an intricately patterned runner rug. Beyond the kitchen lies a small dining nook with wooden chairs and a round table beneath a large, geometric chandelier, illuminated by abundant natural light from wide windows.

Bathroom Vanity Area

Allison Blank of Compass

A modern rectangular vessel sink sits atop a dark marble countertop with rich brown, black, and cream veining that adds sophisticated texture and depth. A matching marble backsplash runs along the wall behind the sink, creating continuity. The wall-mounted faucet, with a dark bronze finish, extends from a light beige wall, combining functionality with a sleek, minimalist style. Above the sink, an oval mirror framed with vibrant blue stained glass segments brings a pop of color and artistic flair to the otherwise neutral and earthy palette. A white switch plate is positioned to the left, completing the arrangement.

Kitchen Stove Area

Allison Blank of Compass

White cabinetry with brass hardware lines the kitchen, creating a classic and bright atmosphere. A large stainless steel range hood anchors the cooking area, complementing the professional-grade stove with red control knobs. The backsplash and side wall are covered in pearlescent square tiles, adding subtle texture and light reflection. Light tan granite countertops hold various kitchen essentials, contrasting gently with the cabinetry. An area rug with intricate patterns spans the wooden floor, infusing warmth and historic charm. The kitchen’s windows bring natural light, framing views of greenery outside and enhancing the inviting ambiance.

Stained Glass Window Detail

Allison Blank of Compass

The wall showcases an elegant stained glass window divided into two sections, framed by crisp white trim. The glass features intricate patterns with yellow, amber, pink, and pale blue hues forming classical motifs including oval shapes, floral elements, and a central wreath design. The wallpaper surrounding the window is light beige with a subtle, ornamental damask pattern, enhancing the historic ambiance. Suspended in front of the window is a lantern-style hanging light fixture with a bronze or dark metal frame, giving a vintage charm while complementing the warm tones of the stained glass. The setting hints at a classic hallway or entryway filled with natural colored light.

Master Bedroom with Fireplace

Allison Blank of Compass

A spacious master bedroom softened by a muted sage-green wall color paired with cream carpeting creates a light and airy atmosphere. A large beige upholstered bed with nailhead trim headboard is centered against the wall, flanked by minimalist side tables with books. A carved white fireplace mantel with intricate detailing anchors the room, topped by a rectangular mirror. Natural light floods through multi-panel bay windows adorned with floor-length taupe drapes. An elegant tufted chaise lounge with a matching throw pillow sits adjacent to the windows. A gold metal shelving unit stands to one side, filled with books and decorative objects, adding warmth and charm.

Bedroom with Fireplace

Allison Blank of Compass

A spacious bedroom painted in a calming light blue tone paired with crisp white trim and crown molding. The beige upholstered bed with a curved headboard sits centrally against the wall, flanked by a sleek, minimalist nightstand. On one side, an ornate white fireplace with detailed moldings adds historic charm, decorated with sculptural rings on the mantel. To the right, a classic wooden dresser with a decorative mirror above it contrasts with the modern metal open shelving unit filled with books, vases, and decorative boxes. Cream carpeting softens the room, balancing contemporary and vintage elements.

Sunroom Lounge Area

Allison Blank of Compass

A gracefully curved sunroom enveloped in soft, natural light streaming through multiple tall windows. Each window is adorned with floor-length curtains in a delicate floral pattern that complements the muted sage wall color. The centerpiece is a tufted, cream-colored chaise lounge with elegant curves that invite relaxation, accented by a matching blue-grey cushion. Standing next to the chaise is a finely crafted wooden armoire, rich in deep tones that add warmth and a sense of history. A tall lamp with a sculptural base rounds out the cozy yet refined ambiance of this tranquil nook.

Walk-In Closet

Allison Blank of Compass

Bright and airy walk-in closet with built-in white shelving and cabinetry offering an organized layout for shoes, boots, and clothing. Tall shelves display various footwear neatly, while hanging rods hold an array of clothes sorted by type and color. A soft, neutral carpet covers the floor, adding warmth and comfort underfoot. The space is illuminated by natural light through a large window with a patterned valance, creating a cozy and inviting atmosphere. A round, light blue upholstered ottoman sits centrally, providing a comfortable seating option. Classic crown molding and a dark, intricately designed hanging light fixture add subtle historic charm.

Bedroom with Study Nook

Allison Blank of Compass

A spacious bedroom bathed in natural light from large windows adorned with blue and white chevron Roman shades. The room is painted in a soft, warm beige, complementing the cream quilted carpet underfoot. A cream wooden bed with scalloped detailing stands centered, dressed in white bedding with decorative blue pillows. A light blue side table with a white lamp sits next to the bed. At one end, a cozy loveseat adds seating beside built-in shelves filled with books and trophies. Opposite the bed, a minimalist wooden desk painted in soft blue pairs with a brown swivel chair, creating a functional study area. The ceiling features a delicate crystal chandelier, blending classic charm with the room’s airy modernity.

Bathroom Vanity Area

Allison Blank of Compass

Soft pastel pink walls create a delicate and calming ambiance around the vintage-style vanity. The countertop is a smooth white marble slab with curving edges, supported by sleek, shiny chrome plumbing fixtures exposed underneath. Two pendant lights with white glass shades hang elegantly on either side of a tall, oval mirror framed simply in chrome, adding a balanced symmetry. The lower half of the walls is clad in creamy beadboard paneling, providing texture and a historic feel. Windows adorned with playful patterned valances featuring swirling dots in bright hues bring a cheerful element while allowing natural light to filter in softly.

Master Bedroom Details

Allison Blank of Compass

A spacious master bedroom with soft neutral walls and an angled ceiling adds architectural interest. A dark upholstered bed with clean, modern lines anchors the room, complemented by two sculptural wood-and-metal bedside tables with white lamps. Large double windows with a fabric valance let in natural light, brightening the cozy space. A patterned, light-colored rug covers a portion of the rich hardwood flooring, enhancing warmth and texture. The room opens to a tiled bathroom, visible through a white door, while a vintage wooden dresser with elegant knobs and a framed botanical print add classic charm and visual balance.

Home Office Area

Allison Blank of Compass

A quiet home office space with a neutral color palette dominated by soft beige walls and light carpeting adds warmth and tranquility. A rich wooden desk with classic lines supports a computer setup and is paired with a cushioned swivel chair covered in brown leather. Adjacent is a round wooden pedestal table accompanied by two dark wooden chairs featuring simple spindle backs and armrests. The room is softly lit by natural light streaming through a semi-elliptical transom window above, while framed documents and artwork adorn the walls, providing a timeless academic feel.

Home Gym Area

Allison Blank of Compass

Rubberized speckled flooring enhances durability and traction in this workout space, with an added black exercise mat for extra comfort. Pale beige walls provide a neutral, calming backdrop. A large wall mirror extends across one side to create a sense of openness and allow users to monitor form. Weightlifting equipment includes a PRO deleader bench press setup with attached barbell and adjustable bench. Resistance bands of various colors hang neatly on a wall-mounted rack. Recessed ceiling lights illuminate the room with a bright, even glow, contributing to an inviting and functional home gym atmosphere.

Listing Agent: Allison Blank of Compass via Zillow 

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