Few homes in Northfield can match the presence and pedigree of this magnificent 1915 four-square, set just steps from Carleton College and Central Park and only blocks from downtown, the city pool, and the Carleton Arboretum. For more than a century, this six-bedroom, three-bathroom residence has been meticulously maintained and thoughtfully updated — a rare combination of historic grandeur and contemporary comfort that simply cannot be replicated.
The brick exterior sets the tone for what lies within. Brick walls continue through the front, back, and second-floor sleeping porches, lending warmth and permanence throughout. Both back porches were designed with pocket windows that offer the ability to lower them entirely into the walls, transforming them into fully open-air spaces (a feature, however, that this owner has never tested). Custom shades complete the main floor back porch.
The main floor was built for entertaining on a grand scale. Four sets of massive hardwood French doors open the entire level from front to back, creating a seamless flow for gatherings of any size. Hardwood floors run throughout, and on the main floor they are laid over a concrete subfloor — as creak-free as hardwood can be. The dining room anchors the space with a stunning built-in featuring leaded glass, and period-appropriate wallpaper graces the front rooms. Refinished red oak picture rail mouldings appear in every room, original door hardware and skeleton keys remain throughout the house, and a gas fireplace in the living room adds warmth and character. A second gas fireplace serves the back patio, extending the entertaining season well into the cooler months.
The bathrooms have been updated without sacrificing their original character. Original sinks, radiators, and tiled floors remain intact — updated where necessary, preserved where possible. The home is fully air-conditioned on all three floors, a comfort that belies its age.
Historic details reward the curious at every turn. A plug in the dining room floor once connected to a foot buzzer the original owner — a successful banker — used to summon household staff. A wall safe remains in the primary bedroom. The roof is covered in original tile, and extra matching tiles are stored in the basement should repairs ever be needed; the current owner has never needed them. The gutters are copper.
The lower level is as practical as the upper floors are elegant, offering a dedicated workshop, root cellar, generous storage, and a wonderful laundry room. Abundant windows bring daylight throughout every level. Outside, a beautiful back patio and pergola anchor a fully fenced yard. A newer two-car and older one-car detached garage share a common wall providing three stalls in total — exceptional parking and abundant storage that is a rare luxury in a neighborhood this close to campus and downtown.
For peace of mind, the home includes several new appliances, a new furnace, a new water softener, all-new lighting fixtures, and a one-year home warranty. This is a true gem — one that rewards every closer look. Be sure to review the supplements for a full accounting of improvements made under the current owner's careful stewardship, along with the many additional amenities this remarkable home has to offer.
Listing courtesy of Robert Schanilec, Century 21 Atwood
