First-Time Find: Two Stories of Charm in Fairmount for $285K

What happens when a traditional Philly rowhome gets a touch of rustic charm and a mansard-roof front? You get a very nice modern-yet-classic starter home.

778 N. Bucknell St., Philadelphia, Pa. 19130 | TREND images via Coldwell Banker Welker Real Estate

778 N. Bucknell St., Philadelphia, Pa. 19130 | TREND images via Coldwell Banker Welker Real Estate

Even though Philadelphia is known for its unique historical architecture, it isn’t every day that you find what looks like a tiny cottage nestled in between townhouses on a tree-lined street. Between its outside, with its captivating exterior of colorful doors and shutters and distinctive faux-mansard roof, and its rustic-yet-contemporary inside, this tricked-out classic Philly row home will have you feeling like you’ve finally found an exceptional needle among a row of haystacks.

Tradition and modernity blend together perfectly in this home, from the newly refinished hardwood floors throughout to the exposed brick walls and wood-beamed ceilings. Not only is this home a charmer from the street, but inside, you’ll find it’s truly worthy of its $285,000 price tag.

The first room you encounter as you enter the home is not a living area but the eat-in kitchen space. With its quartz countertops, light wood cabinetry, and a window that looks out to the street, this kitchen is the perfect starter size. Attached to the kitchen is a dining area with an exposed brick wall, creating the perfect space to enjoy a meal.

Beyond the kitchen and the stairs to the second floor is the living room. With sand-colored hardwood floors and large contemporary-styled windows that open onto the back patio, this beautiful space is perfect for both entertaining guests and curling up with a good book. 

Upstairs, an exceptional master bedroom features exposed wood beams, original pine floors and a small sitting area. Exposed brick walls accent the hallway that leads you from the bathroom past the master bedroom to the second bedroom, which includes the same pine floors and airy windows in addition to plenty of closet space and a ceiling-fan light that helps save energy. 

The home also possesses a full basement with laundry hookups, but the piece de resistance is the paved rear patio. With a newly built stone planting wall and enough space to grill or chill, it’s the outdoor complement to a truly enchanting interior. Together, they combine to make an ideal starter home in a great neighborhood, close to great dining and local shopping along Fairmount Avenue and SEPTA bus and trolley lines that take you elsewhere in the city.

THE FINE PRINT

BEDS: 2

BATHS: 1

SQUARE FEET: 700

SALE PRICE: $285,000

778 N. Bucknell St., Philadelphia, Pa. 19130 [Julie Welker | Coldwell Banker Welker Real Estate]