BARBARA H. RILEY

Description

Have you always wanted to live in an historic property? How about a converted barn "Dream Home"? This exceptional property will be the "Dream Home" featured in the October issue of County Lines magazine! This converted, restored bank-barn (circa 1831) is nestled on 2.5-acres in Malvern, Willistown Township., offering the perfect balance of privacy with the convenience of a Main Line location. Enjoy sunset views over a lovely meadow with a meandering stream, and regular sightings of local wildlife including a red-tailed hawk, fox, and (a very handsome!) heron. This exceptional property has been artfully restored and renovated, balancing respect for the past with updates for today's busy lifestyles - including a spacious main level home office, with the option for a second office. All four bedrooms have ensuite bathrooms, offering privacy for you, family members and guests. Throughout this property you'll find exposed stone and re-claimed barn wood walls, wide-plank hardwood flooring, mortise and pegged posts and beams, and custom cabinetry (from local craftsman). Even ceilings were rebuilt, removing old sheetrock, adding new insulation, recessed lighting, and reclaimed hemlock and ash planking. Other highlights include the large three-season screened porch overlooking the peaceful stream and woods beyond. Nicely removed from the main house for quiet and privacy, the spacious office is accessed from the screened porch by its own separate door. With a vaulted ceiling, floor-to-ceiling cabinetry and bookshelves made from reclaimed barn-wood, this space is truly "magazine worthy". Also on the main level is a cozy den (possible second office), a powder room, main floor laundry, plus living and dining rooms with soaring exposed stone walls. The kitchen features custom-crafted cabinetry with under-mount lighting, a large center island with prep sink and second oven, plenty of storage, recessed seating, and pendant lighting. In keeping with the restoration of the home, the turned hardwood stairs to the upper level are from an old school building in Kennett Square. All four bedrooms in this home have exposed hardwood flooring, private baths, and walk-in closets. There are two bedroom suites on the upper level (including the primary suite and one guest room), plus two more bedroom suites on the lower (daylight walk-out) level. The primary bedroom suite is “king-sized” with a vaulted ceiling, two large closets (one cedar and one with floor-to-ceiling custom-built cabinetry), plus an updated primary bath with both a shower and period-appropriate soaking tub. Adjacent to the primary suite, there is an upper-level loft: a great reading nook, and the perfect place to sit, relax and admire the views of the meadow and stream. (With western exposure from the porch, sunset viewing will be a favorite pastime!) From the kitchen, you'll pass through thick, old stone walls into the "corn crib" - now a charming breakfast room, overlooking the lower-level family room. The sunny family room has a vaulted two-story ceiling and a wall-of windows with private, wooded views. A convenient sliding door from the family room offers separate, private access to this level. On the lowest level of the “corn crib”, you’ll find a large bonus room that is currently used as art studio. With an outside entry and roughed-in plumbing for a bath, this space could be another independent bedroom suite, a gym, or yoga room – whatever suits your lifestyle. With plenty of finished and unfinished spaces available, there is ample opportunity create your own special vision for this very special property. Historic charm without historic preservation restrictions. Located just minutes from major commuting routes, the charming borough of Malvern, Main Line shops, restaurants, and host of golf and country clubs. This special oasis offers an escape from hectic-paced lives, within easy commuting distance to Philadelphia, NYC and Washington, DC.

Features