Tour This Gorgeous 1886 Victorian Home in St. Paul, Minnesota

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.

1886 Victorian Home in St. Paul
Spacecrafting Photography

Built in 1886, this Crocus Hill landmark in St. Paul, Minnesota, embodies the grandeur of Victorian architecture with its exterior palette and elaborate ornamentation. Spanning 9,400 square feet on a 1.55-acre bluff lot, it features panoramic views, seven bedrooms, and seven bathrooms. Listed at $2,000,000, the home has been thoughtfully updated with commercial-grade appliances, preserved woodwork, and a working pipe organ. Rich history, stunning leaded windows, and modern conveniences blend seamlessly throughout this magnificent property.

Front Entrance 

Front Entrance
Spacecrafting Photography

An inviting brick walkway and symmetrical brick pillars topped with lanterns lead to the front entrance, where broad concrete steps ascend toward a striking red-brick façade. Ivy-draped walls and lush greenery frame the approach, reflecting the home’s heritage. Large, decorative doors with metal grilles open into a grand foyer, showcasing this property’s historic essence. The warm brickwork contrasts beautifully with mature landscaping, creating a stately yet welcoming ambiance that hints at the elegance found inside.

Where is St. Paul? 

Where is St. Paul
Bing Maps

St. Paul, the capital of Minnesota, resides in the state’s east-central region along the Mississippi River. Historically part of the Twin Cities with Minneapolis, it developed near Fort Snelling in the early 19th century. Known for its Victorian architecture, diverse cultural scene, and revered landmarks like the Cathedral of Saint Paul, the city offers abundant green spaces and a thriving arts community. Proximity to Minneapolis and scenic riverfront views enhance St. Paul’s appeal and significance.

Porte-Cochere 

Porte-Cochere
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A gracefully curved roofline shelters the porte-cochere, supported by sweeping arches that merge form and function. Beneath it, wide stone steps ascend to ornate double doors featuring intricate metalwork. Elegant lighting fixtures flank the entrance, casting a warm glow on the red-brick walls and ivy-covered exterior. This covered arrival space, reminiscent of grand 19th-century estates, combines practical and aesthetic needs, welcoming visitors in style. It stands as a defining architectural element of this Victorian-era masterpiece.

Grand Foyer

Grand Foyer
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Stepping inside, visitors encounter a spacious foyer accented by high ceilings, polished hardwood floors, and richly detailed wood paneling. Natural light filters through the ornate leaded-glass doors, illuminating the warm oak staircase to the right. A classic lantern-style fixture casts a gentle glow, highlighting intricate trim and wainscoting. The foyer’s generous proportions create a sense of refined grandeur and warmth, while the preserved historical details evoke the home’s 19th-century origins. This entryway promises elegance throughout.

Hallway

Hallway
Spacecrafting Photography

Stepping beyond the foyer, a hallway extends with warm hardwood floors and paneled wainscoting, flanked by tall, wooden door frames. A graceful staircase with a carved banister ascends on the left, while overhead lanterns cast a soft glow. The archway leading to adjacent rooms adds visual depth, and crisp white walls contrast beautifully with the wood details. Multiple doorways offer glimpses into interconnected spaces, creating a sense of flow and spaciousness throughout this inviting corridor.

Sitting Room 

Sitting Room 
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Flooded with natural light from tall windows, this elegant sitting room features a stately fireplace framed by wooden mantel shelves. Subtle wallpaper stripes and warm wood trim underscore its Victorian heritage, while built-in shelving offers display space for books or decorative items. The original tile hearth surrounds a classic fireplace, adding historical charm. High ceilings accommodate a vintage chandelier, and the gleaming hardwood floor creates a polished backdrop for both intimate gatherings and quiet reflection.

Music Room

Music Room
Spacecrafting Photography

Anchored by a rare, fully functional pipe organ, this music room offers an impressive space for both practice and performance. Expansive windows fill the room with soft daylight, highlighting the intricate wood paneling and polished hardwood floors. Ornate details, including carved moldings and decorative elements, celebrate the home’s Victorian character. A fireplace with a sculpted mantel anchors one corner, and the room’s generous proportions accommodate seating for listeners, making it perfect for recitals or gatherings.

Dining Room 

Dining Room 
Spacecrafting Photography

Beneath a glittering crystal chandelier, this formal dining room showcases rich, paneled wainscoting and deep green walls that evoke classic sophistication. The high ceiling and original moldings reflect the home’s Victorian heritage, while the spacious layout easily accommodates a large dining table. Polished hardwood floors enhance the room’s warm ambiance, and two wall sconces flank the central space for soft, atmospheric lighting. This elegant setting is ideal for hosting lavish dinners or intimate family meals.

Kitchen

Kitchen
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Bright and functional, the kitchen features crisp white cabinetry, a spacious center island, and gleaming hardwood floors. A professional-grade range with a stainless-steel hood anchors the cooking area, complemented by open shelving overhead. Multiple sinks and ample countertop space accommodate large-scale meal preparation and entertaining. Striking green pendant lights add a playful contrast, while abundant natural light streams through windows. The overall design balances practicality and style, making this kitchen the heart of the home.

Library 

Library 
Spacecrafting Photography

Mary Hardy @ Edina Realty, Inc

This airy space features floor-to-ceiling built-in bookshelves along one wall, painted white to match the room’s crisp aesthetic. A simple ceiling fan provides comfort, and the hardwood floor adds warmth and continuity. The shelves, filled with an array of books, create a cozy reading nook for quiet reflection. A wide window draws in natural light, enhancing the fresh ambiance. Overall, the minimalistic design and ample storage make this library a tranquil retreat for book lovers.

Study Room

Study Room
Spacecrafting Photography

Warm oak built-ins define this study, providing ample workspace and shelving for books or decor. A broad desk sits against the wall, illuminated by pendant lights that showcase the wood’s natural grain. Soft gray walls contrast with the honey-toned floor, adding a contemporary touch to the room’s classic character. Multiple doorways connect to adjacent spaces, while an overhead row of cabinets offers additional storage. This thoughtful design promotes productivity and reflects the home’s refined style.

Sunroom

Sunroom
Spacecrafting Photography

Surrounded by floor-to-ceiling windows, this sunroom captures sweeping views of the lush surroundings. Natural light floods the space, highlighting the warm hardwood floors and a neutral color scheme with cheerful yellow trim. A sleek ceiling fan hangs overhead for comfort, and built-in radiator covers line the perimeter. The airy atmosphere encourages relaxation, while the ample windows blur the line between indoors and out. Ideal for morning coffee or afternoon reading, it’s a tranquil retreat year-round.

Dressing Room 

Dressing Room
Spacecrafting Photography

Soft white walls and floor-to-ceiling drapes create a serene backdrop in this stylish dressing room. A central curved vanity with sleek wooden drawers offers convenient storage for personal items, while overhead pendant lights provide focused illumination. Mirrors lining the walls effortlessly amplify natural light and give the room an open, airy feel. Gleaming hardwood floors lend warmth and continuity, uniting the space with the rest of the home. This elegant design elevates any daily routine.

Bedroom

Bedroom
Spacecrafting Photography

Accented by flowing white draperies, this spacious bedroom exudes an ethereal ambiance. A bay window frames greenery outside, while hardwood floors add warmth and character. A delicate chandelier provides soft illumination from above, complementing the room’s crisp white walls. The tall radiator beneath the window hints at the home’s historic design. A mirrored door leads to an adjacent space, reflecting the abundant natural light. Overall, this refined retreat blends traditional elegance with quiet, serene simplicity.

Bathroom 

Bathroom 
Spacecrafting Photography

Vibrant green tiles wrap this bathroom’s walls, recalling a mid-century aesthetic. A classic pedestal sink sits beside a white radiator, complemented by a bright window that welcomes natural light. The vanity mirror, framed by Hollywood-style bulbs, evokes old Hollywood glamor. Marble-topped cabinetry offers additional counter space, and a matching door leads to storage. Contrasting white fixtures, including the toilet, bring a fresh look. Overall, the space balances vintage charm with functional comfort for everyday use.

Laundry Room

Laundry Room
Spacecrafting Photography

This spacious laundry room combines practicality with a bright, minimalist design. Front-loading machines rest on a slightly raised platform, making loading and unloading more convenient. Above them, open shelving keeps essentials within easy reach. A pair of windows draws in natural light, illuminating the white walls and blonde hardwood floor. Classic radiator heating and tall baseboards reflect the home’s historical origins. Overall, the layout encourages efficient workflow, ensuring that daily chores remain organized and stress-free.

Rooftop Deck 

Rooftop Deck 
Spacecrafting Photography

Beneath a pitched roof with green trim, this elevated deck offers a vantage point overlooking lush treetops. Weathered wooden planks form the floor, contrasting with the warm brick siding. A gently arched doorway leads into the upper interior, framed by decorative scalloping. The deck’s open railing provides unobstructed views of the surrounding greenery, while natural light highlights the historic architecture’s rich hues. Perfect for quiet relaxation, it merges outdoor living with the home’s grand design.

Backyard

Backyard
Spacecrafting Photography

From an elevated vantage, this expansive backyard reveals a manicured lawn framed by mature trees. At its center, a rectangular reflecting pond adds a serene focal point, while neat shrubs and garden beds accent the lush greenery. Adjacent stone paths and terraces provide inviting areas for outdoor gatherings. Ivy creeps along the home’s brick exterior, seamlessly blending architecture with nature. This secluded oasis offers both privacy and picturesque views, perfect for relaxation and entertaining alike.

Aerial View 

Aerial View
Spacecrafting Photography

An impressive aerial perspective captures the full grandeur of this Victorian estate, with its bold red-brick exterior, green gables, and turreted roofline. Surrounded by lush foliage, the home’s sprawling layout includes multiple wings, porches, and a covered porte-cochere. The landscaped grounds showcase mature trees that provide natural privacy, while the paved courtyard offers ample parking. From above, the intricate architectural details stand out, emphasizing the home’s historic significance. This bird’s-eye view highlights its timeless elegance.

Source: Edina Realty via REDFIN

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