Hot House: 4632 Schenley Road, Baltimore, MD 21210
Arts & Crafts California-style bungalow, circa 1922, stucco with wood trim, large covered front porch and newer shingle roof. Five bedrooms, 3 full baths over 2,730 sq. ft. Main level with entrance foyer, sunroom, living room with gas fireplace, dining, family, master suite and eat-in kitchen. Hardwood floors, new windows, original architectural details. Unfinished basement and attic. Central air, 2-car detached garage and .4 acre yard: $499,900 ( recent price cut)
What: This house is believed to have been built as a convent for nuns from a nearby, now defunct, Episcopal church. It certainly benefits from higher ceilings and bigger windows than is usual in a bungalow of this era. It is solidly built (from imported terra cotta block) and well maintained — a house that could take you from start to finish. Move in when you’re young, and you won’t have to do a thing but mow the grass and walk to brunch at Miss Shirley’s. Next thing you know, you’ll be pushing a stroller along the Stony Run stream to story time at the library and school in Roland Park. When they kids get older, they can hang at Starbucks, swim at the Roland Park Pool, and walk home to play ball in the big back yard. Later, you can move the in-laws into the main floor guest room, create a beautiful garden in the back and have a low maintenance, not-too-big house you won’t feel lost in.
Where: One of America’s first garden suburbs, Evergreen is a neighborhood that lies just east of Roland Park, and runs from Wyndhurst Station to Cold Spring Lane. It is both older and less expensive (real estate wise) than Roland Park. Many of its houses were built and lived in by tradesmen and craftsmen who came to work on building the surrounding neighborhoods. The Stony Run stream and walking path are one of its defining features, and this house is just around the corner from the walking path. Evergreen has a unique charm, and is home to many academics, professionals and artists (see below). Recently it has become popular with young families, who like its quiet, safe location, and proximity to Roland Park and downtown attractions.
Why: High ceilings and big, bright windows — unusual for a bungalow.
Why Not: Kitchen countertops and cabinets could use updating.
Would Suit: Academics, artsy professionals who will like the California vibe and the decent price.
NB: Fifty-three percent of Evergreen inhabitants hold an advanced degree, which is way higher than average. Who knew?
