HOT HOUSE: 4100 St. Paul Street, Baltimore, 21218
Brick Georgian, slate roof, circa 1925, in perfect condition, on .32 acres. Six bedrooms, three and a half baths, 5,224 square feet, with large entrance hall, gourmet kitchen, granite counters, large master suite. Original moldings, built-ins, woodwork. Brick terrace and bluestone patio: $1,049,000
What: An elegant, family-friendly mansion on the corner of St. Pauls Street and Highfield Road. It’s one of the many stunning houses in this part of Baltimore that were built for wealthy families leaving Mt. Vernon and Bolton Hill for the “country” in the early 1900s.
For nearly forty years, it was home to the Finnerty family, who raised six children here while Mrs. Finnerty also owned and managed the Turnover Shop on Roland Avenue (this is the Turnover Shop’s 35th year in business) . At least one baby survived being lowered in a basket from the third floor landing, and another, Tom, went on to own the Antique Exchange in Hampden.
The house is grandly proportioned, but comfortable rather than intimidating. Large windows, high ceilings, hardwood floors. Formal living and dining rooms are warm and party ready. There’s a big, sunny family room, and right at the top of the stairs, a charming office with lacquered pocket doors, adjoining the master bedroom. Zoned central a/c. Unfinished basement, “dry as a bone.”
Where: A great location. You’re near both Johns Hopkins University and Loyola University. The Calvert School is nearby, as well as Roland Park Public, the Cathedral School, the private schools on Roland Avenue and the Boys Latin School. It is possible nowadays to walk from here, south on St. Paul’s Street, all the way downtown, feeling entirely safe, with shops and street life all the way. Across St. Paul’s Street and a block over, is Sherwood Gardens, of tulip fame.
Who: Executive family with urban roots and a sense of tradition.
Why: Elegant proportions, great street presence, convenient location.
Why Not: St. Paul’s Street might be too busy for those really seeking peace and quiet.
Hot House is sponsored by Towson-based American Land Title Corporation, commercial and residential settlement agents.
