6240 Woodcrest Avenue, Mt. Washington.
Hot House: Stone Cottage in the Woods. 2 Beds/1 Bath. 1,130 Square Feet. Asking price: $459,944.
What: As you may have gathered over the past few years, I am not a fan of huge McMansion-type houses, and as I get older, I am feeling the need to pare down what I have and live more simply. (To anyone who knows me well, you can stop laughing right now!) So, again this week, I am featuring a cottage, this time in stone, which I love!
Nestled along a road of mostly stone cottages, this two bed/one bath is a perfect size for someone either just starting out or looking to completely downsize. Set on a low-maintenance and completely wooded lot, this 80-year-old cottage is in a cocoon of privacy. It was formerly owned by an architect who renovated it with details sympathetic to the original house, including doors, windows, latches and hinges.
As you enter the cottage, you are greeted by a lovely, hand-painted, diamond-patterned floor in the hallway and dining area. In the living room, a rustic stone fireplace sets the stage for cozy evenings. Built-in bookshelves hold treasured books and objects. Much of the woodwork in the house has been painted a historic mustard color – think more Grey Poupon than French’s.
Most of the living area is on the ground floor, but in addition to the two bedrooms and full bath, there is an open-plan attic that could be used as a home office, additional bedroom, crafting space or playroom.
The basement is semi-finished with an innovative wall concealing the cottage’s mechanical systems. There is a standing seam tin roof to emphasize the cottage’s rustic look.
The cottage’s property is about 10,000 square feet and is mostly wooded with “trained” bamboo. There are paths and patios made with locally quarried stone and slate from the cottage’s original roof.
Where: This cottage is located just off Greenspring Avenue, along the western part of Mt. Washington in the Cheswolde section. The cottage is situated on a non-through street, so there’s very little traffic. Parking is on-street, which is not at all “competitive.”
Final Appraisal: The term one-of-a-kind is liberally used in real estate listings, but this house truly fits the description. From the thoughtful details, to the cozy size of the cottage, to the flowering bushes including azaleas and rhododendron, it’s a gem. The listing for the house is here.
All photographs from the listing.
