There are houses that have been renovated until every trace of their history is gone—and then there are homes like 122 Sumac Street, where character is one of the very best parts of the story. This beautiful duplex is filled with the kind of details that make you stop and look a little longer. Original hardwood floors run through bright, generously sized rooms, while tall ceilings, gorgeous moldings and wainscoting, beautiful old doors and original woodwork bring a warmth and craftsmanship that simply can't be recreated in new construction. Bright bay windows create little sun-filled corners that seem made for morning coffee, exposed brick adds texture and history, and the fireplace makes an already inviting room feel even more like home.The gorgeous original staircase and turned wood banister greet you almost immediately and set the tone for everything that follows. French doors connect rooms while allowing light to travel from one space to the next. Wide openings and long sightlines give the living spaces an unexpectedly open feel, while built-ins, window seats, architectural trim and cozy little nooks give each room its own identity. It's the kind of home where you start imagining how you'd live in it before you've even finished walking through it AND because 122 Sumac is a duplex, all of that character comes with something equally valuable: flexibility. Two separate living spaces create so many possibilities. Live in one and rent the other, add a property with real personality to your investment portfolio, or simply take advantage of a home that offers the ability to change along with you over time. There isn't just one way to make this property work—and that's part of what makes it so special. Next is the outdoor space. The unusually generous lot is a wonderful surprise for a city property and gives you room to actually enjoy being outside. Even better, a small paved driveway at the rear connects the property to Manayunk Avenue and has been used by the current owners for off-street parking in the past—a rare and incredibly useful bonus in this part of the city. The location gives you the best of both worlds. The trails and natural beauty of the Wissahickon are close by, while regional rail, neighborhood conveniences and all the restaurants, shops and energy of nearby Manayunk are within easy reach. You can feel tucked away without feeling disconnected from anything. Beautiful old bones, incredible craftsmanship, wonderful space, and more than a century of stories already within its walls...now it's ready for someone new to fall in love with it and write the next one!
Listing courtesy of KW Empower. Contact: irene@kwempower.com