JOE LINGO

Description

One of East Falls’ earliest and most architecturally significant homes has just hit the market. Built in 1902, this rare Arts & Crafts Carriage House is believed to have been designed by the celebrated architect George Howe, whose early career included an apprenticeship under the legendary Frank Furness. The home proudly features the classic “Furness Red Brick,” a locally produced material that defined much of 19th-century Philadelphia architecture. Howe’s career began at Furness, Evans & Co., continued with Mellor & Meigs, and led to a groundbreaking partnership with William Lescaze. Together, they created the PSFS Building-America’s first International Style skyscraper. In later years, Howe designed private residences across the Philadelphia region and collaborated with renowned architects Louis Kahn and Oscar Stonorov. This East Falls residence reflects Howe’s early vision, with original architectural features preserved and fully restored, while modern systems and finishes provide every comfort. With over $200,000 in updates, the home features 3 bedrooms and 2 full baths, with a curb cut in place for future off-street parking (driveway and garage) and 2 gas fireplaces with original Mercer tile-restored by an artisan at Moravian Pottery & Tile Works. Inside, an enclosed front porch with a coat closet that doubles as a sunroom or kids and pets playroom. The wide-open cook’s kitchen flows seamlessly into the dining and living rooms, creating a perfect space for entertaining or quiet family gatherings. A spacious walkout basement with both interior and exterior access offers the flexibility to create a home office, fitness studio, workshop, playroom, or extra storage. Throughout the home, you'll find meticulously restored original features including arched doorways, leaded and casement windows, wood-paneled doors, crystal and brass doorknobs, ornate millwork, banisters, and radiators. The original hardwood floors have just been professionally refinished, and the entire house has just been professionally repainted inside and out. Modern upgrades include a fully rewired electrical system with all knob and tube removed, 200-amp service, high-efficiency high-velocity central air, a Weil-McLain gas boiler, a Bradford White gas water heater, Andersen Low-E windows, and new gutters, soffits, fascia, and concrete sidewalks. The bathrooms and kitchen have been updated, and recessed and brushed brass light fixtures add a modern touch while complementing the home's historic elegance. Both fireplaces have been relined and fitted with gas logs, and California Closets and organizers were added in the bedrooms for improved storage. Lots of light, windows, closets & storage. Outdoors, the property features beautifully landscaped gardens with native grasses, plants, and trees, all within a level, gated, and fenced yard. The home sits on a large for East Falls .23 acre lot perfect for raised beds for herbs, vegetables, and flowers. The yard receives abundant sun, making this a dream for any gardener and perfect for kids, pets, playing, entertaining, gardening, your next BBQ, birthday or special occasion. The location is unparalleled. Just a short walk to Penn Charter, Thomas Jefferson University, Mifflin School, and the East Falls and Queen Lane SEPTA train stations, this home offers convenient access to Center City, local hospitals, universities, and the Philadelphia International Airport. Enjoy neighborhood favorites like Falls Library, Weavers Way, Vault & Vine, Ultimo Coffee, In Riva, Tacqueria Cresta, and several boutique shops, cafes, brewpubs, and restaurants. Outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate close proximity to the Schuylkill River Trail, The Wissahickon, Kelly Drive, and Lincoln Drive. Germantown Friends School and Germantown Cricket Club are just minutes away. A 10-minute car ride or 15-minute bike ride takes you to Center City. With the Philadelphia Homestead Exemption, 2025 estimated property taxes are just $5560.

Features