KELLY RALSTEN & PAULA KAMISON

Description

Nestled in the middle of one of Cedar Park’s most picturesque and neighborly blocks, this classic porch-front Victorian twin is a preservationist’s dream, brimming with original architectural detailing that has been lovingly maintained. With mature trees, café string lights, and friendly porches framing this quiet one-block street, the setting offers a timeless sense of community just steps from Clark Park and Baltimore Avenue. Step through a charming vestibule adorned with rich wood paneling and original tiled flooring into a gracious central hallway anchored by a grand original staircase. Its finely carved woodwork echoes the stunning millwork and crown molding found throughout the home. In the front parlor, high ceilings and a gas fireplace with its original wooden mantelpiece and ceramic tile surround create a warm and inviting focal point. Sunlight pours in, highlighting the craftsmanship that gives this home its enduring character. Beyond stately chestnut pocket doors, the formal dining room features a built-in corner cabinet, a gracious curved bay window, and elegant crown molding, offering a beautiful and functional space for gatherings. A conveniently located half bath adds extra practicality on the main level. Toward the rear of the home, a secondary back staircase provides additional access to the upper floors while blending seamlessly into the home’s historic design. The spacious eat-in kitchen has a center island, tile floors, stainless steel appliances, and decent cabinet space. It opens directly onto an enclosed back porch with steps leading into the expansive, tree-lined yard, complete with perimeter planting beds and a vintage iron fence—perfect for gardening, grilling, or relaxing outdoors. On the second floor, the primary suite feels bright and refined with bay windows, a decorative brick mantelpiece, a ceiling fan, and access to a full shared bath. This full bathroom features colorful original pink and black tile, a tub and shower combo, and connects directly to the second bedroom. A third bedroom at the rear overlooks the lush backyard, offering a peaceful retreat. A handsome built-in dark oak bench anchors the hallway landing, another beautiful reminder of the home’s original detailing. The third floor functions as a fully equipped apartment, complete with two additional bedrooms, a skylit full bathroom, and a kitchen—making it ideal as an in-law suite, au pair quarters, guest apartment, or private home office/studio. This flexible space offers both privacy and comfort, perfect for multi-generational living or rental income potential. Above, a large attic offers abundant storage or the opportunity to create a finished bonus room. Downstairs, the partially finished basement includes a laundry room and a half bath, with plenty of space to expand into another living area, playroom, or home office. The potential here is enormous. Throughout the home, original woodwork, crown molding, and turn-of-the-century craftsmanship have been thoughtfully preserved, striking a beautiful balance between historic charm and modern functionality. Located just steps from Clark Park and Baltimore Avenue’s favorite local restaurants—like Doro Bet, Gold Standard, Loco Pez, Vietnam Café, and Dahlak—and within easy reach of UPenn, CHOP, HUP, St. Joe’s, University of the Sciences, and Drexel, this home offers the very best of West Philadelphia living.

Features