Farmhouse Friday: Old Soul with Modern Creature Comforts

This large Dutch Colonial is so nice on the inside, we're willing to give its outside a pass.

By Sandy Smith· 3/4/2016, 9:00 a.m.

382 W. Valley Forge Rd., King of Prussia, PA 19406 | TREND Images via Keller Williams Realty Devon/Wayne

Ordinarily, aluminum siding and stucco should be enough to disqualify any home from being featured in this department, especially if they cover a 1725 stone farmhouse such as this one. But this home’s interior spaces—and the newer stone wall covering the passageway that leads to the home’s most striking modern update—are so beautiful and well maintained that we’re willing to overlook the historical insult, just this once.

That most striking modern update is the kitchen, which was stripped to its guts and totally rebuilt a few years ago. The makeover respects the home’s character yet improves on it with custom cabinets with hand-blown German glass in the buffet doors, granite countertops, the latest high-end appliances including oversized ovens and an induction cooktop, a butcher-block prep area, walk-in pantry and cathedral ceiling with skylights.

The rest of the home is just as striking on the inside. Notable spaces include the dining room, with its restored fireplace, reproduction oil lamp chandelier, and new flooring made from reclaimed heart of pine from a 200-year-old barn. The first-floor bathroom has a beautiful stained-glass window, and there’s an immaculately maintained living room and laundry room on this floor as well.

The second floor contains four spacious bedrooms, a sitting room and a renovated bathroom with radiant heat floors. Two more bedrooms and two storage rooms are on the third floor.

The original pump house has been preserved as a storage shed, and the two-car garage recently underwent a total renovation.

Given all this and its location near the heart of King of Prussia, the home’s listing price is something of a surprise. We’re guessing it’s because of its small (0.68-acre) lot and that aluminum siding, which may save maintenance costs but detracts from the authenticity. Otherwise, this home offers a rare combination of historic sensibility and modern accommodations.

THE FINE PRINT

Beds: 6

Baths: 2

Square Feet: 3,694

Price: $399,900

Additional info: The home also has a totally modern heat pump-based heating and cooling system and 200-amp electrical system.