This gem of the Arts and Crafts movement was built in 1927 for the Kents as a summer cottage in historic Wyncote. The home combines the best of all worlds with exceptional original details and modern updates. Arts and Crafts Movement homes are characterized by large casement windows, arched doorways indoor and out, and most particularly by extraordinary hand-crafted woodwork. The craftsmanship is evident as you enter the foyer. Intricate woodwork detailing is found on the three story grand staircase, which is bathed in light from a soaring wall of windows. The feel of the first floor is bright and free-flowing, with lines of sight from the family room on one end, through the living room and entrance hall to the new kitchen and breakfast nook at the other end. Through an arched entrance, you enter the elegant arts and crafts living room. The bright living room has windows on four sides and a stunning fireplace surrounded by 3 walls hand tooled bookshelves. Adjacent to the living room, you can enter the cathedral-ceiling family room with walls of windows and access to a covered patio, floored with rare red slate tiles. The modern gourmet kitchen designed by a Philadelphia designer is another highlight of this home. High-end finishes, including Portuguese limestone flooring, custom cabinetry, Bertazzonni ovens, Bosch hood and dishwasher, quartz counters, and glass tiles, come together in a beautifully understated way. Beyond the breakfast nook is an outdoor cement deck over the two-car garage. The large dining room features another impressive fireplace. The gracious main floor of the home also includes an enclosed sun porch, a piano room, and a half bath tucked away off the foyer. Updates continue upstairs in the primary bedroom with a modern bath and walk-in closet/dressing room. In all, there are 5 bedrooms on the second floor with 4 full baths. There is the option of closing off two bedrooms and a bath as an “in-law suite,” with a separate staircase. The home has a new high-efficiency heater. There is a 2 car garage and plenty of additional parking in the circular drive. This house is a five-minute walk to the beautiful Curtis Arboretum, once the home of publisher Cyrus H. Curtis, now the site of township fairs and outdoor concerts. It is a short walk to two other parks, as well as the hub Jenkintown train station. Nearby Jenkintown is a bit of a walk but less than five minutes by car, with fantastic restaurants and an independent movie theater. Accessible commuter location with quick access direct to Center City from Route 76 or Lincoln/ Kelly Dr, connecting routes to the PA Turnpike or 1-95. The SEPTA station has the best-scheduled service, with three train lines all merging at that one station. Service every 10 minutes during the rush hours can get you to Temple University, downtown Philadelphia, 30th Street Station, the U of P/Drexel University campuses & hospitals, and the Philadelphia Airport. This home is a stunning, architecturally significant residence to fall in love with.
