Tour a 1916 Classic Home in Minnesota With Quartz Kitchen Finishes, a Cozy Family Room and Spacious Outdoor Entertaining Spaces

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.

Joseph J. Holmes of Keller Williams Premier Realty

Built in 1916, this charming Saint Paul home beautifully marries historic architecture with modern living. Featuring classic elements like restored hardwood floors and detailed millwork, it has been fully renovated to include a top-of-the-line kitchen with quartz countertops and stainless-steel appliances, as well as updated bathrooms designed as elegant retreats. The lower level’s transformation into a versatile family room enhances functionality. Recent upgrades include a new roof and fresh exterior paint in 2022. Multiple porches and a fenced backyard provide excellent outdoor space. Priced at $374,900, this home offers timeless style in a vibrant community with convenient access to local amenities.

Historic Home Exterior

Joseph J. Holmes of Keller Williams Premier Realty

A charming early 20th-century American residence sits elevated behind a sturdy brick retaining wall with detailed caps. The house boasts a steeply pitched roof with asphalt shingles and a prominent brick chimney. Exterior walls are finished in light stucco complemented by muted green trim around the enclosed front porch, which features multiple tall windows for ample natural light. Rustic wooden shutters adorn the upper window, adding a quaint, vintage touch. The lush, well-maintained lawn is framed by mature trees and landscaped shrubs, creating a serene and inviting atmosphere along the sidewalk and street.

House Exterior and Lawn

Joseph J. Holmes of Keller Williams Premier Realty

A classic American home with a steeply pitched gable roof and light beige stucco exterior stands prominently behind a well-maintained green lawn. A low brick retaining wall separates the property from a wet concrete sidewalk, suggesting recent rain. Mature trees with lush green foliage frame the house on both sides, adding to the serene suburban street scene. Wooden shutters accent the second-story windows, and a small porch with steps leads to the main entrance. A tall wooden privacy fence encloses the backyard, while the neatly trimmed shrubs enhance the overall quaint and inviting curb appeal.

Backyard Patio Area

Joseph J. Holmes of Keller Williams Premier Realty

The backyard patio is spacious with a warm brown brick paver floor extending from the house steps to the fenced edge. A small elevated stone stairway leads from the back door to the patio, painted in muted gray. The exterior walls of the home show textured cream stucco with sage green trim around the windows of an enclosed porch above the door. A dark wooden privacy fence encloses the yard, with garden planters filled with flowers lining the perimeter. Outdoor seating includes cushioned chairs near a gravel pit area, alongside a barbecue grill and a rustic wooden picnic table. Lush green grass and trees provide natural beauty and shade to this inviting outdoor space.

Backyard Patio and Lawn

Joseph J. Holmes of Keller Williams Premier Realty

A spacious backyard with a well-maintained green lawn bordered by a wooden fence and lush trees providing natural privacy and shade. The patio area is surfaced with reddish-brown stamped concrete, which frames a gravel section holding a square concrete firepit surrounded by four light gray Adirondack-style plastic chairs. A simple wooden bench sits adjacent to the patio near the house. The home’s exterior presents a classic design with light beige stucco walls and muted green window trim, accented by a dormer enclosing a sunroom or enclosed porch above the back entrance. The sky is clear with soft clouds, emphasizing a peaceful outdoor setting.

Backyard Fire Pit Area

Joseph J. Holmes of Keller Williams Premier Realty

A cozy backyard setting with a central square concrete fire pit surrounded by four gray plastic Adirondack chairs placed over a bed of small, multicolored gravel. The space is enclosed by a tall, rich brown wooden fence adorned with a built-in planter box holding a mix of small flowering plants and greenery. Adjacent to the gravel area is a wooden deck with steps leading up to a beige stucco house with green-trimmed windows and roof details. Lush trees and additional houses are visible beyond the fence, adding to a peaceful, residential neighborhood atmosphere.

Backyard Patio and Fire Pit

Backyard Patio and Fire Pit
Joseph J. Holmes of Keller Williams Premier Realty

A spacious backyard with a reddish-brown stamped concrete patio leads from the house steps out into an open yard. A wooden picnic table with a small potted plant sits on the patio, offering seating adjacent to a cozy fire pit area. The fire pit is surrounded by several Adirondack chairs arranged on a gravel bed, creating a casual gathering spot. The yard is enclosed by a wooden privacy fence, lined with mature trees and green shrubs. Two garden sheds are visible at the back, and the overall setting blends functional outdoor living with natural greenery under a partly cloudy sky.

Backyard Fire Pit Area

Joseph J. Holmes of Keller Williams Premier Realty

Enclosed by a tall wooden fence stained in a rich brown hue, this outdoor space is centered around a square stone fire pit with stacked logs ready for use. The ground is covered with smooth, multicolored pebbles, contrasting with stamped concrete walkways that border the area. Three molded Adirondack chairs, arranged around the fire pit, provide casual seating. Along the fence, a built-in wooden planter box filled with small flowers adds a touch of color and life to this simple, functional yard. The backdrop includes mature green trees and a clear blue sky, offering a peaceful and private outdoor retreat.

Backyard Play Area

Joseph J. Holmes of Keller Williams Premier Realty

A spacious backyard with a lush, green lawn stretching across the area. A large tree with abundant green foliage provides ample shade over a wooden playset equipped with swings, a slide, climbing wall, and a small platform for kids. A wooden fence encloses the yard for privacy, and a storage shed is visible in the background next to some dense shrubbery. The scene is serene and child-friendly, ideal for outdoor play. The overall atmosphere combines natural elements with practical, sturdy wooden playground equipment under a bright, clear blue sky.

Backyard and Patio

Joseph J. Holmes of Keller Williams Premier Realty

A spacious backyard with lush green grass stretches across the scene, bordered by a tall wooden fence that provides privacy and defines the perimeter. A sturdy wooden swing set and slide are set on a bed of mulch to the left, creating a playful area for children. The back of the historic two-story house is light-colored with a stucco exterior and features a covered patio with brick flooring. On the patio, a grill and seating arrangement invite outdoor gatherings. Mature trees cast gentle shade, enhancing the serene, family-friendly atmosphere.

Backyard and Side Exterior

Joseph J. Holmes of Keller Williams Premier Realty

The scene captures a side and backyard area of a historic home with textured beige stucco walls contrasted by muted green trim around windows and eaves. A small air conditioning unit sits in one upper window, and ivy clings to a lattice attached to the wall. The yard is lush and spacious, carpeted with vibrant green grass. Mature trees with dense foliage provide partial shade, creating a serene outdoor space. In the background, a charming detached structure covered partially by greenery adds character, enclosed by a wooden fence suggesting privacy and seclusion. Simple landscaping with mulch beds lines the home’s foundation, blending nature and architecture naturally.

Garage Exterior and Driveway

Joseph J. Holmes of Keller Williams Premier Realty

Wood-paneled garage doors with decorative windows at the top complement the rustic aesthetic, framed by light stucco walls covered in lush green ivy. A small white side door separates the garage from the adjacent wooden fence, which has a rich brown stain and black hardware accents. The driveway’s fresh asphalt surface glistens with rain, enhancing the reflective quality under the overcast sky. Mature trees with vibrant foliage encircle the property, adding natural privacy and a peaceful, leafy ambiance to the outdoor space.

Kitchen Overview

Joseph J. Holmes of Keller Williams Premier Realty

Bright white cabinetry with glass-paneled upper cabinets frames a modern stainless steel stove and microwave. The backsplash features a subtle geometric tile pattern in white, blending seamlessly with the countertop and cabinets. The floor sports an intricate, vintage-inspired tile design in soft gray and white, adding historic charm to the space. To the left, a stainless steel dishwasher sits beneath a quartz countertop island. Soft neutral wall colors complement the kitchen’s classic, clean look. Traditional moldings and trim around the doorways and windows echo the heritage character of the home, balancing modern elements with historic style.

Kitchen and Dining View

Joseph J. Holmes of Keller Williams Premier Realty

Stainless steel appliances including a French door refrigerator and dishwasher complement the bright white cabinetry with classic paneling. The patterned tile flooring in white and gray adds elegance and a touch of vintage style. A large farmhouse sink is installed on the white quartz countertop island, which separates the kitchen from the dining area visible in the background. The dining area features hardwood floors, a chandelier with candles, and windows with white blinds allowing natural light. Soft gray walls unify the spaces, while crown molding and wide doorframes add subtle historic architectural character.

Kitchen with Patterned Floor

Joseph J. Holmes of Keller Williams Premier Realty

White cabinets with classic molding extend to the ceiling, incorporating a built-in wine rack above a small counter space next to a large stainless steel refrigerator with French doors and a freezer drawer. Light gray walls complement the white cabinetry and trim around the double windows, which offer a view of a green outdoor space. The floor stands out with large tiles featuring an ornate gray and white pattern, adding a decorative vintage touch to the otherwise contemporary and clean kitchen. Recessed lighting in the ceiling provides bright, even illumination. A doorway leads to an adjoining room with wood flooring and stairs visible.

Dining Room Details

Joseph J. Holmes of Keller Williams Premier Realty

A spacious dining room bathed in natural light from a curved wall of four large windows framed with crisp white trim. The room is painted in a soft gray tone that provides a neutral backdrop. The centerpiece is a dark wooden table with a matching bench and chairs, lending a rustic yet elegant atmosphere. A vintage-style brass chandelier with six candle-like bulbs hangs overhead, adding warmth and classic charm. Built-in cabinetry with glass-paneled doors and intricate leaded glass detail above blends functionality and period character. Hardwood flooring completes the traditional, inviting ambiance.

Living Room

Joseph J. Holmes of Keller Williams Premier Realty

The living room flows openly into the dining area, separated by two white columns with panel bases that enhance the classic architectural style. The walls and trim are painted in soft, neutral grays and whites, providing a calm backdrop to the warm, rich wood floors. A large, light gray sectional with navy accent pillows anchors the seating area, complemented by a striped, rectangular ottoman serving as a coffee table. The dining space features a dark wooden table with matching benches and chairs beneath a delicate brass chandelier. Leaded glass windows add historic charm, while natural light streams through multiple large windows, brightening the space. A potted fern adds a touch of greenery near the entrance, blending modern comfort with traditional design elements.

Living Room and Dining Area

Joseph J. Holmes of Keller Williams Premier Realty

The space blends a living room with an adjacent dining area, separated by wide columns and substantial trim molding. Soft gray walls and white trim create a clean, neutral palette that emphasizes brightness and openness. Hardwood floors with a warm finish add classic elegance and continuity throughout. Furnishings are modern and minimal—a beige sectional sofa with a blue cushion sits beside a striped upholstered ottoman. An abstract artwork in muted tones and a lush green plant add subtle color accents. Ornate lighting fixtures, including a crystal chandelier and a wrought-iron chandelier in the dining area, add a touch of traditional charm. Visible through an open doorway is a white staircase with wooden handrails and an antique-style radiator, hinting at the home’s historic character.

Living Room Details

Joseph J. Holmes of Keller Williams Premier Realty

Soft gray walls create a calm backdrop contrasted by bright white trim and wide baseboards, enhancing the room’s classic charm. Rich hardwood floors add warmth and a timeless appeal. A large, comfortable sectional sofa in a neutral fabric with a dark blue accent pillow invites relaxation. In front, a striped ottoman introduces subtle pattern and texture. Three large windows framed by white trim fill the space with natural light, offering a view of greenery outside. An ornate, vintage-style radiator beneath the windows adds historic character. A delicate crystal chandelier with a brass frame hangs from the textured ceiling, blending traditional and contemporary elements beautifully.

Sunroom Entryway

Joseph J. Holmes of Keller Williams Premier Realty

Small sunroom with large, clear windows allowing natural light and garden views, creating an inviting transitional space. White painted wood paneling lines the walls and ceiling, adding a bright and airy feel. Floor is covered with dark, stone-like tile arranged diagonally, contrasting subtly with the white walls. A sleek, black metal shoe rack with two shelves stands against one wall, holding a few pairs of shoes. Black metal coat hooks are mounted on the opposite wall, enhancing functionality. The adjacent black-framed glass door leads to a fenced outdoor patio with seating, visible through the windows.

Bedroom with Wall-Mounted TV

Joseph J. Holmes of Keller Williams Premier Realty

A modest bedroom combining traditional and modern elements, with polished light hardwood floors contrasting soft gray walls. A dark wood bed frame holds bedding in deep navy blue quilted fabric, creating a cozy focal point under a white ceiling with a central ceiling fan featuring dark wooden blades and a glowing light. The room has a sloped ceiling and a classic cast iron radiator painted bronze beneath a window draped with delicate white semi-sheer curtains. On one wall, a flat-screen TV is mounted between two candle sconces with geometric black metal frames, blending functionality with subtle decorative accents.

Bedroom Corner Detail

Joseph J. Holmes of Keller Williams Premier Realty

Light gray walls and natural wood flooring create a calming, neutral palette. A dark wood dresser with clean lines sits beneath two rustic wooden shelves mounted on the wall, offering practical storage. Opposite the bed, a flat-screen TV is centrally mounted between two geometric metal candle sconces, adding subtle decorative interest. The bed has a dark quilted coverlet which anchors the space with rich contrast. White trim around the doors and baseboards highlights the historic architectural details while a ceiling fan with wooden blades and a light provides both ventilation and soft illumination.

Bedroom Window Corner

Joseph J. Holmes of Keller Williams Premier Realty

Soft lavender walls surround a bright corner of an empty room, likely a bedroom, accentuated by honey-toned wooden trim around the large double windows. The natural light floods the space, highlighting the pale, polished hardwood floor, which contrasts elegantly with the darker baseboards. A vintage-style brown cast iron radiator sits under the window, adding a historic touch. The ceiling is painted white, featuring a modern ceiling fan with wooden blades and a central light, blending classic character with contemporary functionality. The overall aesthetic feels warm, inviting, and effortlessly timeless.

Empty Bedroom Corner

Joseph J. Holmes of Keller Williams Premier Realty

Soft lavender walls create a calm atmosphere, contrasted by rich, honey-toned wood trim along the baseboards and window frame. The floor is finished with light-colored hardwood, adding warmth and a natural texture to the room. A modern ceiling fan with wooden blades and a central light fixture blends functionality with style. A white paneled door with dark vintage doorknob and hardware opens into a hallway painted in neutral tones. The room’s design balances historic wooden accents with updated elements, creating a clean and inviting space that still honors traditional craftsmanship.

Sunroom with Windows

Joseph J. Holmes of Keller Williams Premier Realty

A bright sunroom is lined with a series of large, white-framed double-hung windows that offer panoramic views of the neighborhood. The ceiling features beadboard paneling painted white, adding texture and historic charm. A decorative light fixture with an ornate, circular metal design in brass hangs from the ceiling, providing an elegant focal point. The walls are painted a soft, light sage green, complementing the warm honey-toned wood flooring beneath. Clean white moldings frame the windows and run along the base of the walls, emphasizing a crisp, classic aesthetic in this inviting, airy space.

Bright Sunroom

Joseph J. Holmes of Keller Williams Premier Realty

The sunroom is a narrow, elongated space lined with tall windows on two sides, inviting abundant natural light and offering clear views of the outdoors. Walls are painted a soft, muted gray, contrasted with crisp white trim around windows and baseboards. The ceiling is paneled in white beadboard, complementing the classic, clean aesthetic. Light wood flooring adds warmth and natural texture. A decorative ceiling light fixture with a golden, intricate scroll pattern adds an elegant historic charm. The room feels airy and tranquil, ideal for reading or relaxing while enjoying sunlight and garden views.

Bathroom Details

Joseph J. Holmes of Keller Williams Premier Realty

The bathroom presents a clean, classic aesthetic with a white pedestal sink paired with a chrome faucet. The toilet is white and positioned next to a glass-enclosed shower. The shower walls are lined with rectangular white subway tiles, complemented by small hexagonal tiles on the shower floor, continuing the white theme. A wall-mounted silver frame mirror hangs above the sink, reflecting soft ambient light. A framed artwork adds subtle color to the otherwise neutral gray walls, which contrast with the white wainscoting below. Chrome towel bars and fixtures unify the look with a polished, timeless style.

Basement Living Area

Joseph J. Holmes of Keller Williams Premier Realty

Soft gray carpeting and neutral-toned walls create a bright and welcoming basement living space. Two dark brown leather couches are positioned near built-in white bookshelves filled with books and decorative items. A modern, wall-mounted electric fireplace with a wooden mantel adds warmth and a focal point. The ceiling incorporates recessed lighting for even illumination. White support columns and a small window near the ceiling enhance the open feel. An adjoining room with open double doors showcases tall shelving filled with board games and storage boxes, blending comfort with functional storage.

Basement Sitting Area

Joseph J. Holmes of Keller Williams Premier Realty

A comfortably furnished basement sitting area with a modern and minimalist touch. The walls and ceiling are painted in a light gray tone, enhancing the brightness from multiple recessed ceiling lights. A dark brown leather sofa with ample seating spans the right side, complemented by another matching chair partially visible in the foreground. The carpeted floor in a neutral beige tone adds warmth and softness to the space. A sliding barn-style white door with black hardware contrasts subtly against the wall near a set of carpeted steps, implying access to other parts of the house. A single framed black and white landscape photograph adorns the wall above the sofa, contributing a touch of understated decoration. The clean lines, neutral palette, and uncluttered arrangement create a calm and inviting atmosphere ideal for relaxation or casual gatherings.

Laundry Room Details

Joseph J. Holmes of Keller Williams Premier Realty

A bright laundry room with soft gray walls and white cabinetry topped with a marble-like countertop offers a clean, modern aesthetic. A front-loading Samsung washer and dryer sit side by side beneath a small rectangular window that brings in natural light. A utility sink with a sleek chrome faucet is integrated into the counter space to the left, providing practical functionality. Hexagonal tile flooring in subtle neutral tones complements the room’s muted color palette. Art on the walls adds character, while recessed ceiling lights ensure the room is well illuminated. The adjacent doorway leads to a cozy living area with a leather armchair and shelving.

Basement Office and Storage

Joseph J. Holmes of Keller Williams Premier Realty

A bright basement space arranged for a combination of office work and storage. The walls are painted a soft light gray, paired with a light, textured carpet that adds warmth. A black mesh ergonomic chair sits at a sleek glass-top desk supported by metal trestle legs, with a modern computer setup beneath. Adjacent to the desk, two tall black shelves are filled with numerous board games, adding a playful and personal touch. A white barn door on black metal hardware slides to reveal additional storage, and a white paneled door offers access to another room, emphasizing clean lines and functionality.

Basement Office Area

Joseph J. Holmes of Keller Williams Premier Realty

A compact office space located in a finished basement with a neutral, light gray color palette enhancing brightness. The carpeted floor adds warmth, complementing the modern, clean white trim around the small window, door, and baseboards. The ceiling features multiple recessed LED lights, creating a well-lit environment for work. A sleek glass computer desk is paired with a black ergonomic office chair, emphasizing functionality and style. Wall art diversifies the space with vibrant colors and pop culture themes. A black bookshelf on the right holds board games or books, adding a cozy, personalized touch to the room.

Listing Agent: Joseph J. Holmes of Keller Williams Premier Realty via Zillow 

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