KELLY RALSTEN & PAULA KAMISON

Description

Surrounded by a perimeter of mature forest including evergreens and accessed through a formal gate, Arbor Aves is a Stone Manor estate positioned on one of Northside Haverford’s most coveted and quiet lanes. The front façade combines extraordinary stone and brickwork in a composition of enduring elegance, while the rear elevation, accented with board and batten details, is breathtaking in its symmetry and scale. Framed by gardens and hardscaping designed by Chuck Hess, the light-stone terraces, resort-quality vanishing-edge pool with perimeter overflow, spa, fire-pit, and a fully equipped outdoor kitchen with stainless steel grill create a setting where everyday living feels like a retreat. A front-to-rear center hall with inlaid stone floors, and a sitting nook sets a tone of refinement the moment you enter. The living room combines architectural balance with warmth, featuring a fireplace, abundant natural light from 2 exposures, and a charming front window nook that invites reading, conversation, or quiet reflection. The dining room is enriched with ceiling moldings, a cushioned window seat, and ornamental fireplace, while the library offers finely crafted millwork and the solarium glows with wrap-around windows and honed slate flooring. Throughout the main living areas, hardwood floors of white oak—aligned with today’s design preferences—underscore the home’s sophisticated yet timeless palette. Five fireplaces are placed across the home’s 4 finished levels, blending architectural beauty with comfort. At the heart of the residence, the Clive Christian kitchen is a showpiece of honey-toned cabinetry, polished Calacatta Gold marble, and professional La Cornue range, anchored by an island with seating for 4. The adjoining breakfast room, crowned by a soaring 12-foot ceiling, overlooks the gardens and flows to the family room, where a fireplace and custom shelving invite gathering. Thoughtful design touches abound: a walk-in pantry with Thermadore wine storage and direct inside access to the garage simplifies unloading groceries, while a “command center” with built-in desk, cabinetry, and shelving provides a practical hub for household management. Crestron automation makes listening to music or controlling lighting and HVAC a breeze. The primary suite is a retreat of extraordinary scale and comfort, complete with a private sitting room and fireplace, a beverage center, dishwasher, 2 fully customized walk-in closets, and dual spa-like onyx baths with soaking tub, slab counters, and shared double-sided shower. A 2nd-floor landing introduces another architectural moment—a cozy sitting nook with custom shelving and a window overlooking the front courtyard, creating a quiet retreat above the main foyer. Five additional en-suite bedrooms complete the family level, while the 3rd floor provides flexible space or an in-law suite with living room, generous bedroom suite with full bath, walk in closet, cedar closet, and additional storage. The finished lower level is designed for recreation and entertaining, with a professional gym, state-of-the-art theater, walk-in wine cellar, and full wet bar with large island for entertaining, full size dishwasher, refrigeration and cabinetry. Two full bathrooms serve this level: one positioned as a dedicated poolside cabana with changing area and direct access to the gardens, the other adjacent to the exercise room. Every space has been crafted with the same level of finish found throughout the home. An elevator serves all 4 levels. Green features—cedar shake roof, Pella Architectural Series windows, blown-in insulation, Energy Star HVAC, permeable pavers, and water-saving fixtures—demonstrate the home’s thoughtful design and efficiency. Arbor Aves is more than a residence; it is an experience. Morning light fills the whole rear expanse, spend mornings or afternoons around the infinity pool or in the theater, and evenings draw family, friends to the terraces,

Features