MontcoREsource
Real Estate Category
346 Euclid Avenue, Ambler
There are a handful of streets that many agree rank among the most choice in the Borough, and Euclid Avenue is certainly one of them. Euclid Avenue is a mere two blocks long, not a cut through street by any means, and boasts beautiful turn of the century homes. It’s not uncommon to see a portion of the street framed by neon ‘Kid Alert’ figures allowing kids to ride bikes and play. There is also an annual Euclid Avenue block party. I’ve never attended, but it sure sounds pretty rocking from a few streets away.
Although almost all of the homes on this street were built at the same time, 346 Euclid is unique among them. This home was built in 1910, the time between the grandiose homes of the Victorian era and the smaller, interwar, bungalow style homes. True to the era, it is a beautifully constructed, three story stone home, featuring a Victorian style two-story bay window. The home boasts spectacular details, such as stained glass, beautifully unique curved starting steps leading to a quarter turn stair case with original wood balusters and period newel posts, original trim and molding, 5 inch baseboard, deep windowsills, hardwood floors throughout, high ceilings and solid wood five panel doors. All of these timeless details would cost a fortune today, yet they are here, waiting for you to enjoy.
From the street, the size of the home may be somewhat deceiving, as inside you will find expansive rooms, and several of them. The first floor features a large living room with bay window, dining room (currently a sitting room), den/family room and spacious kitchen. The ceiling height is wonderful and adds to the grand, yet comfortable feeling of the home. The kitchen was likely an addition at some point, it features gorgeous exposed stone, brick and a beam on one wall. It is a very functional kitchen design, as the ‘U’ shaped work space is completely open allowing for seating all around and is fabulous for cooking and conversation. There are builtins for storage and pantry shelving surrounding the basement landing, accessed through the kitchen. Due to the darker wood and stone, the current owner installed two large skylights to bring in tons of natural light, in addition to the french doors that lead to the deck and rear yard. Also, there are three closets on the first floor, plenty of room for coats, vacuums and the like.
Upstairs, on the second floor, you will find four bedrooms and a full bath. Three of the bedrooms are large and bright, the front bedroom showcases the beautiful bay window. The fourth bedroom is on the small side, and in my opinion, should become a laundry room for a future owner. Up another flight of stairs, is the third floor, which offers two additional bedrooms and a large full bath. The angles from the roofline give the two bedrooms a lovely shape and detail, without taking away precious headroom, as many eaves do. There is also abundant closet space on the third floor.
Last, but not least, is the powder room, tucked into the first stair landing. I’m giving this tiny powder room it’s own space because I LOVE it. As soon as you open the door, you walk into another era, one that doesn’t quite fit the house, but at the same time, fits perfectly. The wild 60’s wallpaper, the old school commode, tiny sink and beautifully deep set stained glass window just make me swoon. Likely a new owner will renovate this, but I wouldn’t touch it.
Outside, the grounds are just charming. Wonderfully shaped beds and lovely perennials that will surprise you throughout the seasons. There is a spacious deck off of the kitchen, perfect for grilling and entertaining. Like most homes in Ambler, the yard is not huge, but it is flat and offers great space to relax or play. Once the trees fill in, the back is more private and very special. If you don’t delay, you could be in this home by the time the fig tree bears fruit! You’ll notice the driveway apron in the front, which indicates that there was one on the property at one time, but being on such a quiet and spacious street, someone must have simply preferred more grass.
As you explore the outdoor space, you will notice the artwork that abounds. I’m sorry to say, but these pieces will not remain at the property. They were created by the owner, a renowned local artist, and were a true labor of love. Love is exactly what she poured into her work, and this home. As an artist, this home was a wonderfully creative space for her, and a very loving loving home where four daughters were raised. If the walls could talk! While it is sad to leave, it is time for this home to be passed on to the next owner, who will love it just as much, and experience utter joy, just as they did.
I’m sure at this point you’re wondering about the price. To purchase a home of this stature and quality, on an amazing street in sought after Ambler Borough, could easily cost you $400,000+. That said, this home does need work and updating, which is why it is priced at $279,000. 346 Euclid is really for someone who has the ability and desire to put in the time and money that it needs. This is truly an incredible opportunity to own a very special home, yet be able to put your own personal stamp on it. If you appreciate history, the detail and workmanship of the early 1900’s, and this wonderful town of Ambler, don’t let this one slip away. If you act quickly, you could be in this home in time to walk to the Ambler Farmers’ Market and the many festivals that kick off this Spring!
Showings begin at the open house on Saturday, March 19, 1-3pm. Beyond that, showings will be on a limited basis, so you are encouraged to make the open house, if you’re able. For a private showing, or more information, please contact me, Allison Wolf, 215-704-9888.
346 Euclid Avenue, Ambler
6 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, $279,000
515 Randolph Avenue, Fort Washington
Nestled in a sweet spot, on the edge of Elliger Park in sought after Fort Washington, yet just a few blocks from Ambler Borough (and totally walkable to downtown, just ask the owners!), you’ll find a home that has been cared for and improved with the utmost attention to detail. This was a first home for the owners, and let’s just say that it needed some love, and that is exactly what they put into it over the past seven years. Tons of love, and time, and money. The list of improvements is impressive and will put your mind at ease, knowing that almost everything has been done for you. The improvements include the roof (on the house and garage), siding, windows, upgraded electric, air conditioning, basement waterproofing, new fencing, fully renovated kitchen and master bath, and the list goes on. Better yet, the house roof, windows, waterproofing and air conditioner have transferrable warranties!
The house is incredibly bright and spacious, with 1,877 square feet of living space, offering four bedrooms and two full baths. The main living area has an open floor plan, providing a great flow, ideal for entertaining. When the kitchen was renovated, two walls were removed to bring in tons of light and create a fabulous work space and breakfast bar. The kitchen has all the bells and whistles that you could want, including stainless steel appliances, beautiful wood cabinetry, Corian countertops with integrated, duel bowl sink, under cabinet, task lighting, ceramic tile floor, tons of work space, and great storage. The kitchen overlooks the dining room, which makes the bar a great place for a buffet/serving area when you’re hosting a party. The living room boasts a beautiful stone fireplace, which is the focal point of the room. Adjacent to the living room is a large foyer with lovely slate floor and cathedral ceiling. As the owners use the backdoor for access to the house, the foyer serves them as bright playroom for the kids. Hardwood floors run through the dining room, living room, into the hallway and in the three bedrooms on the first floor. Down the hallway off of the living room, you’ll find the laundry area, access to the basement, three bedrooms and a shared hall bath.
Upstairs, you’ll find an oversized master suite, complete with sitting room, dressing area, beautifully renovated full bath, and huge walk in closet. This is truly a space to enjoy peace and comfort at the end of the day. Not only has the bath been completely renovated, but offers a desirable double vanity and it’s own on demand, tankless hot water heater.
Outside there is a fabulous yard for play, gardening, and relaxation. The rear yard is fully fenced and offers access to the driveway and an oversized one car, detached garage. The garage has an automatic opener and electric inside, ideal for projects.
515 Randolph Avenue is a wonderful place to call home. Not only does it provide peace of mind (which is priceless), but it boasts one of the most sought after school districts in the area, Upper Dublin. As mentioned, this home is close to downtown Ambler, but also blocks from the train as well as most major routes of transportation. Living here makes it convenient to get almost anywhere in a jiffy.
Showings begin at the open house, Sunday, February, 21st, noon-2pm. For a private showing, or more information, please contact me, Allison Wolf, 215-704-9888.
515 Randolph Avenue, Fort Washington
4 bedrooms, 2 baths, 1877 square feet, $315,000.
108 Mary Ambler Way
108 Mary Ambler Way offers the best of both worlds in that it is almost new construction at only 5 years old (a newborn by Ambler housing standards), boasting all of the modern conveniences that you could ask for, yet nestled in the heart of historic Ambler Borough, just blocks from our fantastic downtown and the train to Philadelphia.
You will absolutely love living here; all three floors offer beautifully bright and inviting living spaces. A neutral color palate, new hardwood floors, custom lighting and window treatments leave you nothing to do but move in and enjoy. The open floor plan on the main floor is ideal for entertaining, but if you’re not one for hosting, invite your friends over and walk into town for dinner and a fun night out. Pulling into your attached two car garage, avoiding the elements after a long day is a huge plus that is not often found in the borough. This section of Mary Ambler Way is located on the perimeter of Station Square, providing unobstructed views of the sun setting each evening over downtown Ambler.
The Station Square home owners association takes care of the landscaping and snow removal, making this carefree living at it’s finest. If you are one who would rather spend your free time being out and enjoying a vibrant downtown scene or taking in nature, as opposed to being saddled with chores, then this home is truly for you. Instead of cutting the grass and shoveling the snow, you can walk out your front door and take advantage of the nearby Green Ribbon Trail. The Green Ribbon Trail is a peaceful 12.6 mile trail that runs from Upper Gwynedd to Whitemarsh, connecting several parks and protected areas. One such area is the Four Mills Nature Reserve, a 52 acre parcel and home to the Wissahickon Valley Watershed Association, that is just one mile from your doorstep at 108 Mary Ambler Way. Also, located just blocks away are fabulous eateries and pubs, a seasonal Farmers’ Market, close to a dozen annual street festivals, as well as great shops and services, the library and more.
Living is Ambler is a true joy, just ask me! To learn more or schedule a private tour, reach out to me today, Allison Wolf, 215-704-9888.
108 Mary Ambler Way
3 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, 2,150 square feet, $349,000
330 Mattison Avenue
It was the year that George Washington was born, eleven years before the author of the Declaration of Independence, and 44 years before the founding of our great nation; 330 Mattison Avenue was built. To say that this property is unique is an understatement. Built in 1732, this home has the distinction of being the oldest on record in the Borough of Ambler and it boasts a half acre of land (one of less than two dozen such properties in the Borough). In 1732 Wissahickon was made up primarily of farmland, as it was well before the era in which the town was industrialized, also well before the infamous train wreck and the woman whose heroic act would change the name of our town. This property originally encompassed 157 acres, which means that several of you reading this live on the original property, myself included.
When I learned that I was going to have an opportunity to see the inside of 330 Mattison Avenue, I was absolutely giddy. I have been curious about this house for YEARS. Initially it was because it is a beautifully unique, stately home on what is a rather large lot, by Ambler standards. A few years ago I decided to find out which home was the oldest in the Borough; after some quick research, I learned that it is 330 Mattison Avenue. Needless to say, my interest in the property was considerably peaked and my stalking intensified. Just joking, sort of.
Inside and out, this home is an entertainers dream. A grand foyer welcomes you into the home where you will immediately notice the beautiful detail of yesteryear. The reception room features a hearth surrounded by a lovely mantel with dentil molding, view of the staircase with original newel post, coat closet and your first glimpse of the gorgeous hardwood floors.
Through the foyer you’ll find one of the highlights of this home, the spectacular great room. It’s amazing that this room is both enormous and cozy at the same time. I envision both epic holiday parties and snuggling in front of the fire with a book, clearing the floor for dancing and cocktails, but also curling up in the windowsill watching the snow fall. Speaking of window sills, they are amazing, fairy tale window sills, the kind that you can fit more than one person on, comfortably. Not only are the windows oversized and beautiful, but they have ALL been replaced, as in, throughout the entire house.
Back to the great room… it features french doors to the side yard, foyer and study, crown molding, five inch baseboards, beautiful hardwood floors and a stunning fireplace boasting exquisite mantel and millwork. Through the great room, you’ll step down into the study which has wide plank hardwood floors, access to the covered patio and rear yard. Beyond the study is a spacious and bright dining room offering newer hardwood floors, expansive windows which provide a striking view of the meticulously landscaped property and french door to the front porch.
While the kitchen offers the modern conveniences that we have come to expect, such as Decora cabinets, stainless steel double drawer Fisher & Paykel dishwasher, slide in Jenn-Air range, granite counter with undermount sink and appealing granite island with plenty of workspace and seating for four, it has retained its period feel with beamed ceilings and brick hearth. A separate summer kitchen/pantry area provides tons of extra storage, acts as a staging area for special dinners, and touts a discreet rear stair case, as well as outside access.
Whether you ascend to the second floor by way of the main or rear staircase, you’ll find an abundance of space. The oversized master bedroom matches the great room in size and boasts the same beautiful hardwood floors.
The master bedroom shares the open landing with a second bedroom, huge linen closet and updated full bath. Down the hall you’ll find two additional bedrooms, one currently serving as a craft and laundry room. At the end of the hall is private access to the rear stairs. While this home has been extremely well maintained and carefully restored over the years, this small section is in need of some work. The owner poured much love, time and money into his home over the years, but sadly passed before completing this one small area. If desired, the new owner can complete this space and put their stamp on the home. The recently renovated third floor offers a fabulous entertainment or work area, two more bright bedrooms and an oversized, updated bath.
Last, but certainly not least, are the bucolic grounds. Every inch of this half acre has been meticulously maintained, a true labor of love. The front porch on Mattison is vast and great for watching the world go by, while the rear yard offers peace and tranquility. Just off the great room and study is a huge, covered flagstone patio complete with four ceiling fans and skylights. The patio is surrounded by perennial gardens, winding paths, an old wishing well, and a lush, rolling lawn where you’ll find one of the apple trees from the original orchard. Fencing along North Street adds privacy, there is a large shed offering plenty of storage, and the original horse ties are still in tact, for todays, modern, two horse family.
This historically significant home is a dream and is conveniently located near Ambler’s bustling restaurants, train station, and major highways. All of this within the award winning Wissahickon School District. Your chance to own this magnificent home is a once in a lifetime opportunity, don’t let it pass you by.
For a private showing, or more information, please contact me, Allison Wolf. 215-704-9888
330 Mattison Avenue, Ambler
5/6 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, 3,943 square feet of magic, 1/2 acre, $474,900.
Ambler Yards
It’s no secret that the Borough has grown in leaps and bounds over the past 20 years. Moving forward, Borough Hall goes to auction this week, the Ambler Cabaret will have a new owner by the end of the year, and two of the Borough’s long vacant spots are rumored to have new tenants moving in. All very exciting news.
While the Borough is typically the focus here, there is a new project just outside of the Borough that recently caught my attention. The project is a multi-millon dollar redevelopment called Ambler Yards. Ambler Yards will be located in the former BASF complex (previously Cognis, Henkel, AmChem), one block outside of the Borough on a 26 acre parcel, in Lower Gwynedd Township. The complex is an industrial site consisting of 23 buildings; a mix of lab, warehouse, office and other space. Ambler Yards plan is to adaptively reuse the existing structures and create modern workspaces, as well as an incredible campus including green space with meadows, walking paths, pollinator garden, fitness center, game room, bike room, dedicated food truck area and more. Visit their website for a taste of what’s to come, great detail and gorgeous renderings.
The campus is less than one mile from the Ambler train station, complete with sidewalks from point A to point B. This redevelopment will be fantastic for Ambler, bringing countless new faces into the Borough to patronize our businesses and stimulate our local economy.
Final approval is still pending from Lower Gwynedd Township, but I’m told that things are moving forward and redevelopment should begin in Spring of 2016. Leasing will be handled exclusively by Binswanger.
106 Glen Mawr Drive
Glen Mawr Drive? In Ambler? Where the heck is that? Not an uncommon response from even an Ambler resident, as Glen Mawr Drive is a tiny little two block street that many have never visited. It’s one of those streets that you’re likely not driving down, unless you live there. I could sit on the front porch all day and count the cars going by on my two hands. What a glorious thing. Glen Mawr Drive is a hidden gem that runs between Forest Avenue and Valley Brook Road, just two blocks from the now dog friendly Ambler Borough Park, and four blocks from downtown Ambler.
106 Glen Mawr Drive has been enjoyed by the same family (passed down through the years) for more than 60 years. True to the era in which it was built, the home is solid and well constructed, boasting beautiful details indicative of its time. The wood work (trim, baseboard, crown and frame molding, custom built-in’s) is impeccable, solid 5 panel wood doors are present throughout the home (which would cost a fortune today), hardwood floors are also throughout the home (with the exception of the den). The hardwood floors in several rooms have been covered with carpet for 40+ years, the wood is dying to be exposed, and what an incredible difference that will make!
This home offers great living space on the first floor. Entering the home, you are welcomed into an enclosed front porch; through the front door you’ll find a large living room with wood burning fireplace, turned staircase, and coat closet, sizable dining room with two corner built-in cabinets, cozy den with built in hutch, kitchen with access to the rear yard and adjoining breakfast room. Upstairs you’ll find three bedrooms, one full bath, two linen closets and access through the third bedroom to a huge walk up attic that spans the entire house. The attic is unfinished and affords great storage, but also offers the possibility of wonderful finished space in the future. It could be a master suite, additional bedroom, office space, whatever your heart desires. The basement is neat and clean, and allows for outside access to the rear yard by way of an oversized stairwell and bilco door.
The lot is just over 1/5 of an acre and boasts a lovely back yard, perfect for a garden, as well as space to entertain and play. There is a one car detached garage and long driveway for plenty of off street parking, not that street parking would ever be a concern on Glen Mawr Drive.
This home has been extremely well maintained and is move in ready, but if you were to update the kitchen, expose the hardwood floors and add your personal touch with interior paint, this home would be amazing. If you want to take it one step further and really knock it out of the park, you could turn the breakfast room into a powder room and finish the third floor. Whether you want to move in and enjoy the home as it is, make improvements right away, or tackle one project at a time, this home is a great value and the neighborhood certainly justifies the improvements.
I feel confident that I don’t need to point out the MANY benefits of living in Ambler Borough, but if by some slim chance you are not familiar with the Borough, the rest of us will all take pity on you. Okay, pity party over, on to Ambler and why it is so wonderful…
Unlike most suburban towns in Montgomery County, Ambler has a true downtown that offers restaurants, a theater and playhouse, unique small businesses and shops, as well as regional rail to the city. The entire Borough of Ambler is less than one square mile, so you can get to everything on foot. Ambler’s non-profit organization, Ambler Main Street, produces spectacular events throughout the year, including an Arts & Music Festival, First Fridays, Oktoberfest, Auto Show, Holiday Parade, two Restaurant Weeks per year and more. We also have a top notch Farmers’ Market, May-October. Ambler has an old world feel and is a tight knit community; you know your neighbors and people look out for one another. Ambler boasts several volunteer organizations where many newcomers are able to meet people and take an active role in the community. Ambler is also located in the highly regarded Wissahickon School District, children living at this address would go to Lower Gwynedd Elementary. I could go on, but I’ll stop and get back to the house…
Showings will begin at the open house on Saturday, September 12th, 1-4pm. This home is a rare opportunity, don’t miss it!
106 Glen Mawr Drive, Ambler
3 bedrooms, 1 bath, 1736 square feet
$259,000
For more information, please call or email me, Allison Wolf. | 215-704-9888 | [email protected]
The Ice Cream Man and The Painted Lady
Do you want to live in a town where the ice cream man visits nightly in the summer? As much as Ambler has experienced an incredible revitalization, it has managed to maintain the small details that make you feel like you are stepping back in time. You’re invited to do just that this Sunday, step back in time by visiting one of Ambler’s highly regarded Painted Ladies. Much like the town of Ambler, this exquisite Queen Anne Victorian home has maintained its wonderful, period qualities, while offering the modern updates and features that our lives demand. The detail is impeccable, and unlike any modern construction that exists today. A home like this rarely become available in Ambler.
It is quite possible that you will fall in love even before stepping foot into the house, as the exterior of the home is breathtaking. Three stories tall and constructed of solid stone with lovely wood detail including scalloped shingles and gorgeous spindle work on the front porch, which also boasts a beautiful mahogany floor and matching ceiling. The front door, and even storm door, are specimens. Ambler is a town where front porches get a lot of use, and this one really takes the cake.
Inside you’ll enter into grand foyer with enfilade through to the custom kitchen in the rear of the home. Timeless details like the oak staircase with beautiful newel post and original stained glass window over the stairwell will charm you. Enough cannot be said about the woodwork in this home, it is extensive and ornate, yet not overbearing. Through the foyer you’ll find a formal living room, dining room, family room with wood burning fireplace and a large bay window bump out with wrap-around window seat. The oversized windows bring in plentiful light, making this a very welcoming home.
Through the dining room is the completely renovated, custom kitchen boasting lovely cabinetry offering TONS of storage, striking soapstone counters, over sized, deep undermount sink, and all stainless steel appliances, including gas range. There are two pantry areas, and open shelving to display your treasures. Not only does the kitchen have a cathedral ceiling, but two sky lights bringing in beautiful, natural light. Adjoining the kitchen is a breakfast room with high end wrap-around casement windows. There is also an exit to the fabulous rear yard, but we’ll come back to that. There are hardwood floors throughout the entire first floor and a tiny, but necessary, powder room tucked away under the stairs.
Upstairs, the second floor again features hardwood floors and tons of light, three bedrooms, two full baths and linen closet. The master bedroom has a wall of windows, its own full ensuite bath and a wall of closets, because let’s face it, homes of this age weren’t originally overflowing with closet space. Fortunately the current owners took care of that and there is now room for abundant storage. The second and third bedrooms are also spacious and offer expanded closet space. The hall bath is huge and features a beautiful claw foot tub.
Down the hallway and up another set of stairs, the third floor presents one of the best rooms in the house. Although it is a bedroom, it is currently being used as a lounge area (The Sky Lounge, to be exact) with one of the best vantage points in Ambler. Not to mention, one of the most beautiful windows from which to look out upon all of Ambler. Underlying the windows are builtins that span the wall and could also be used as window seating. This is a fantastic space, with limitless possibilities. A fifth bedroom and huge walk in closet round out the third floor.
Outside, in the rear of the home, you’ll find a fully fenced in yard with lots of room for play, as well as a 600 square foot EP Henry paver patio with retaining wall. This makes for an amazing entertaining space, or just a lovely spot to relax. The landscaping was well done, offering many different perennials providing beauty all season long. If this isn’t enough, you are just blocks from the heart of downtown Ambler. If you don’t already know, Ambler has a vibrant downtown that offers great restaurants, bars, shops, festivals, farmers’ market and train to the city!
This home is a rare opportunity that you don’t want to slip away. Come, live the good life in Ambler!
Showings begin at the Open House, Sunday, May 17, 1-3pm
For a private showing, or more information, please contact me, Allison Wolf. 215-704-9888
9 Hendricks Street
5 bedrooms, 2.1 baths, 2,425 square feet of beauty, $398,000.
345 Trinity Avenue, Ambler
Newer construction is not often found in the heart of Ambler, making this spacious 21 year old home a great and rare opportunity. It’s the best of both worlds, newer construction and design on a wonderful street in historic Ambler Borough.
This home offers over 2,000 square feet of living space featuring high ceilings, an open, flowing floor plan and newer hardwood floors. All rooms are very nicely sized and boast great natural light. The color palette is neutral, opening up endless possibilities to make the house your own.
The oversized, eat in kitchen is the heart of the home, with a view to the living room, dining room and family rooms. The family room is a wonderful gathering place featuring a soaring cathedral ceiling, wood burning fireplace with lovely marble surround and sliders to the deck. There is also a powder room, laundry area and access to the garage on this level.
Upstairs the hardwood floors continue and you will find a huge master bedroom, complete with full bath and abundant closet space, as well as two other nicely sized bedrooms and hall bath. The basement has very high ceilings and is on it’s way to being finished, just needs a few finishing touches.
Outside you’ll find a great back yard and thoughtful plantings around the house including bleeding heart, hydrangea and peonies, all of which make for great cut flowers.
Due to the location between Church and Orange, this is not a cut through street, but a quiet street where you can sit on your front porch and relax in peace or walk down the block to Pickering Field and watch a baseball game. Also within walking distance is vibrant downtown Ambler which offers great restaurants, bars, shops, festivals, farmers’ market and train to the city! A great home, in a special town.
Come, live the good life in Ambler!
3 bedrooms, 2.1 baths, 2,000+ square feet, new roof in 2013, $350,000.
To schedule a tour, contact me, Allison Wolf, 215-704-9888.
Won’t you be my neighbor?
What every Ambler buyer wants; quality construction rich in character, offering an open floor plan. The two typically don’t go hand in hand, but in this home, you will find the perfect balance. Bright, open and airy, with tasteful upgrades, including a kitchen that will knock your socks off, studio/garage and off street parking, finished basement, two outdoors areas, and more, this home does not disappoint.
Greeting you is the front porch, a quintessential element if you live in town. If you’re not familiar with Ambler, porch sitting is a must. In the warm months, the town comes alive and this becomes a great vantage point and spot to wave to your neighbors, or invite them up for a cool beverage. The community vibe and old school neighborly feel is one of the best things about Ambler, but we’ll get to that later. Back to the house…
Inside you’ll find hardwood floors throughout, high ceilings, original trim and molding and the open concept that you’ve been looking for. The living room is spacious and looks into the bright dining room, which flows beautifully into a custom kitchen. The owners thoughtfully removed the wall between the kitchen and dining room, creating a truly wonderful space. While they were at it, they renovated the kitchen to a degree that is rarely found in a home like this. If cooking is your game, then you will appreciate the professional grade, gas Themador rangetop and oven. High end Downsview cabinets under the granite countertop, dual bowl, undermount sink, stainless steel appliances, wine rack, fabulous butcher block top island with plenty of room for seating, custom backsplash with Moravian tile detail from nearby Fonthill and more. The kitchen is not only the heart of the home, but where everyone gathers; your friends and family are going to love spending time here. Off the kitchen is a mud/laundry room with front loading washer and dryer, terra cotta floors and plenty of storage.
Upstairs, the hardwood floors continue, and you will find three nicely sized bedrooms. Years ago, people didn’t have nearly as much stuff as we do today, particularly clothing. Therefore, finding closets large enough to accommodate our belongings is a challenge in most homes this age, but not here! Additional closet space was added in the master bedroom, complete with builtins. Also on the second floor is a full, tile bath, with a beautiful door. Yes, I’m highlighting the bathroom door. Weird, I know, but wait until you see it. It speaks volumes to the era in which this home was built and I love it. I want to steal it.
Up another flight of stairs is what used to be a generous attic space that was wisely converted into a fourth bedroom. Two sisters currently share this room, not because there isn’t enough space on the second floor, but because this room is that cool. It really is a unique space, with a vaulted ceiling and skylight that brings in a ton of light, lots of storage, and a private getaway kind of feel. If this space isn’t used as a bedroom, it would be a great studio, reading room or office.
Yes, we’ve already covered a lot of space for a twin home, but there is more. The basement is finished and offers great space as a family room and all around gathering place. This level also offers a half bath, wine cellar (well, not quite yet, but that’s what I would make it), and convenient exit to the rear yard.
Speaking of the rear yard, it is super cute. There is a recently built deck with plenty of room for seating, eating and all that good stuff, along with a yard complete with flowering trees and perennials. Also, the owners have installed a rain barrel, to tickle your eco fancy. In the rear of the home is a one car detached garage, which was converted into a studio. Whether the potters wheel is spinning or band practice is in full effect, this is a very creative space that has endless possibilities. Leading to the studio is a driveway, yes, off street parking! This is a huge bonus and a game changer when you’re so close to town. And no, the car doesn’t come with the house, but nice try.
Ahhh, and now onto town. I’m guessing that if you’re reading this, you are already fairly familiar with Ambler and have likely targeted the town for your home search (like I did). If so, you probably know what Ambler has to offer, but if not, there is so, so much. Tiny, little, Ambler Borough is less than one square mile, but packs a big punch. There is a vibrant downtown that offers great restaurants and bars, a historic, 3 screen, indie movie theater, an acclaimed playhouse, shopping, services (like the old school tailor, shoe repair, salons a plenty, etc.), yoga/karate studios, music schools, and more. All of this, including the train to the city (and Doylestown) are just blocks away. Several new businesses are in the throws of opening in town (a bakery, a restaurant, and a co-op is in the works), demonstrating that Ambler is a smart investment. Ambler’s hardworking volunteer organization, Ambler Main Street, brings festivals and fun events throughout the year. Also, the Ambler Farmers’ Market is 4 blocks away! Open Saturdays, May – October, this is not only a place to purchase fresh, local food, but a community gathering place. Which brings me back to that community feel that I mentioned earlier. This is one if the best things about Ambler, that you may not know, unless you’ve lived here. It really is Small-town, USA. My friend likes to recount her “Ambler experiences” by opening with, “It was the perfect Norman Rockwell moment”. These Norman Rockwell moments happen all the time, in fact, I had one this past Saturday. I left my house to head into town and encountered our local firetruck and police leading a huge group of kids and their parents towards Pickering Field for opening day of Ambler Junior Baseball. Talk about warm fuzzies. It’s actually hard to walk around town and not run into people you know, and if you’re new to town, that will quickly change. Maybe it’s because the houses are closer together and we have sidewalks, but I think that most of all, it is because Ambler residents deeply care about their community and work hard to make it a truly special place.
Okay, I’ll get off of my Ambler soapbox, but you get the point. Come see this amazing house on Sunday, and come, live the good life in Ambler!
118 Rosemary Avenue
$223,900
Open house, Sunday, April 19, 1-3pm
For questions and/or more information, please contact me, Allison Wolf.
[email protected]
215-704-9888
118 Rosemary Ave branded from Video Tours on Vimeo.
It’s a beautiful day in the neighborhood!
[youtube]https://youtu.be/_4nI7AgUKwk?t=33s[/youtube]
Batter Up!
How many at bats have there been at 34 East Butler Avenue? Really, I’m curious, as I’ve lost count. The Wyndham is the standout for me, otherwise, it’s a bit of a blur between then and now. Most recently, 34 East Tavern stepped up to the plate in June of 2013 after Finn McCool’s unexpectedly closed. A year later, 34 East was publicly listed for sale, and by next week, the building will have a new owner. With a new owner, comes a new restaurant, Gypsy Blu.
Although new to Ambler, the force behind Gypsy Blu is not new to the business, not by any stretch. Partners, Kim Strengari and Marianne Gere, are established restauranteurs, with three successful eateries under their belts. Stella Blu (2001), The Gypsy Saloon (2004), (see what they did there) and Southern Cross Kitchen (2012) are located just 20 minutes away in Conshohocken, and all three thrive within less than one mile of each other. Pretty impressive, if you ask me. I was not able to connect with the owners, so I cannot speak to the Gypsy Blu concept or menu, but am confident that it will be a welcome addition to Ambler. Their restaurants are known for great food and atmosphere, a fun bar scene, live music, alfresco dining (can’t wait to see what they do with the best patio in town), a rockin’ happy hour and exciting nightly specials. Brunch is served at two of the three locations (including bottomless bloodys and mimosas!), hopefully this trend will continue in Ambler.
I was told that after the final, last call at 34 East (this Saturday night) a crew will quickly step in and get renovations under way. Apparently, the plan is to close for only a short time (about two weeks) before reopening as Gypsy Blu. They have been hiring for several weeks and from what I’ve heard, training in their Conshohocken restaurants, so perhaps the staff will be ready go. Regardless, two weeks seems pretty bold, but cheers to them if they can pull it off. Also of interest, it was reported that the second and third floors will eventually be turned into 10-12 luxury apartments. Hopefully more on this to come.
For now, let’s welcome Gypsy Blu and hope that this batter hits a home run.
Stella Blu (lunch, dinner) | Gypsy Saloon (brunch, lunch, dinner) | Southern Cross Kitchen (brunch, lunch, dinner)
In the mean time, let’s help 34 East go out with a bang! They will be cash only and are offering HUGE discounts, as well as a DJ Thursday, Friday and Saturday, stop by, it’s a party!!!
UPDATE, April 7, 2015:
The property officially changed hands yesterday, April 6, 2015, sources say Gypsy Blu hopes to open sometime in May.
Allison Wolf
Realtor
215.704.9888
[email protected]
12 year, 5 Star Award Winner, as seen in Philadelphia Magazine!
