On the Market: Neotraditional Rehab in Rittenhouse Square

331 S. Hicks St., Philadelphia, Pa. 19102 | Bright MLS images via Keller Williams Philly

Most of the time, when one buys a house for sale, the furniture’s not included in the deal.

I wouldn’t expect it to be part of this one either, but if I were you, I’d ask the listing agent whether the owner might be persuaded to give it up. Failing that, get the contact info for the interior designer who put the main floor together, for that person did a bang-up job of turning this nondescript 1850 rowhouse on Hicks Street into a playful update on classical style.

Main floor

The main floor ensemble, for instance, melds Greek Revival quotes with supergraphics to create a sort of postmodern interpretation of classical elegance.

Living room

The use of plantation shutters over the large living-room window also adds an element of originality to the space.

Dining room

Then there’s the chandelier in the dining area, an updated classic that also has a touch of the Moderne about it. I’m not sure whether to leave it where it is or use it to accessorize an evening outfit.

Kitchen

Kitchen

The kitchen displays a similar off-center take on traditional style with its mottled-herringbone-tile backsplash, exposed brick, Mediterranean-style tile floor and (plenty of) farmhouse cabinetry. It also has a beverage fridge, and a pass-through window to the dining room lets you interact with your guests without having them crowd around you while you’re cooking.

Den

The arrangement of the second-floor rooms enables you to make it a master suite if you want. In the back, you’ll find the updated full bath off the den.

Master bedroom

At the opposite end of the den, a pocket door leads to the master bedroom, which has plenty of closet space and a traditional-style electric fireplace.

Two more bedrooms and another full bath are on the top floor, and on the bottom, a partly finished basement contains the laundry and a half bath.

Rear patio

Finally, an attractively landscaped patio behind the kitchen gives you a tranquil outdoor oasis.

Even if you can’t keep the furniture, you’re getting a really good deal with this roomy row house for sale. That’s because it sits on a charming lane a block and a half from the Avenue of the Arts. The Drake Theater is at one end of your block, shops and restaurants surround you, and everything people like about Center City living lies within walking distance.

Talk about intelligent design.

THE FINE PRINT

BEDS: 3

BATHS: 2 full, 1 half

SQUARE FEET: 1,530

SALE PRICE: $749,900

OTHER STUFF: This house’s sale price was reduced by $25,100 on June 10th.

331 S. Hicks St., Philadelphia, Pa. 19102 [Jim Roche | Jim Roche Real Estate Team | Keller Williams Philly via Zillow]