Just Listed: Updated Workingman’s Row House in Fairmount
This handsome house has been reconfigured for privacy and extra space for its owner. But the really great feature is the giant sequoia in its backyard.

It’s not immediately apparent from this picture, but this Fairmount workingman’s row house for sale has an amenity you won’t find anywhere else in the city. You’ll find it in the backyard of 2533 Swain St., Philadelphia, Pa. 19130 | Photos: Jon Biddle via Adam Baldwin, Compass, and *Bright MLS
Those of you who have visited Sequoia National Park were no doubt awestruck by the giant sequoia trees that give the park its name. These trees, some centuries old, are the largest trees on earth.
According to the Wikipedia article on the plant, the giant sequoia’s natural range is limited to coastal California. But the article goes on to note that the tree has also been cultivated far from its home base.
Like 3,o00 miles to the east. You can find some mighty impressive giant sequoias in this region at the Tyler Arboretum in Delaware County — a 95-foot-tall specimen that’s the tallest sequoia on the East Coast — and at Longwood Gardens outside Kennett Square.
Buy this handsome Fairmount workingman’s row house for sale and you will become the proud owner of another fine specimen.

Aerial view of backyard
We don’t have a figure on its height, but as the photo above should make clear, the giant sequoia in this house’s backyard stands out in its neighborhood.

Rear patio, overhead view

Rear patio showing base of tree
It also offers shade to the attractive patio in the rear of the house.

Living room*

Living room, view to front
And it dominates the view through the French doors that lead from the living room/mudroom to that patio. According to the listing agent, the owners say the tree is at least a century old. How it got here, we haven’t learned.

Dining room*

Kitchen
When the current owners updated this house for modern living, they reconfigured its main floor to both maximize privacy and allow you to admire that tree all year round. The living room was moved to the rear while the dining room and kitchen moved to the front.

Primary bedroom
They also modified the upper floor to create an actual primary bedroom suite.

Dressing room (bedroom)*

Hall bath*
They did this by turning the Philly-standard tiny middle bedroom into a dressing room for the front bedroom. You could also use this as a home office.

Media room*
Another change they made that makes this house more comfortable is put a media room in its unfinished basement. You’ll also find a second full bath along with the laundry down here.
Like its neighbors, this house is very convenient to the Art Museum, the Azalea Garden and the Fairmount Park walking/biking trails. The Fairmount Avenue restaurant row will also reward your slightly longer walk over to it.
If you’ve been looking for a home that will wow your friends and guests, this one is it, and it’s all because a tree grows in Fairmount.
THE FINE PRINT
BEDS: 3
BATHS: 2
SQUARE FEET: 1,350
SALE PRICE: $535,000
OTHER STUFF: This house is under contract, but the owner is accepting backup offers.
2533 Swain St., Philadelphia, Pa. 19130 [Adam Baldwin | Compass]