Wedding Cake House Renovation in Melrose MA
Sometimes two forces meet and the result is sheer perfection. This property, which attracted a lot of attention in its state of disrepair in 2001, met the current owners and the result has resulted in an architectural experience and one of the best restorations Metro Boston has ever seen. Its late 19th century elegance was completely revamped, but more importantly, the current owners created ideal, high-end kitchens and bathrooms for 21st century living without losing sight of the architectural history.
This house has a mystical and surprising appeal for those who discover it. Named for the details dripping from the columns, porches, balustrade, and trim that decorate the exterior like frosting, the “Wedding Cake House” has a sister in Kennebunk, Maine, who is considered one of the most photographed homes in the world. country, but the locals know that our Wedding Cake House is, well, more sensual, although perhaps less famous.
To say that the curb appeal is exquisite seems an understatement, but it is important to note that the owners emphasize that this is a very livable home. No expense has really been spared in the complete restoration of this neoclassical Renaissance. Keep in mind that there are over 5000 square feet of living space – 4 stories, 14 bedrooms, 5-6 bedrooms, 7 fireplaces, 3 car garage, 4 full baths and 1 half bath on a nearly ¾ acre lot. It goes without saying that all the systems and upgrades have been done, but the devil is in the details, from the repainting of all the original hardware and accessories to the careful restoration of the murals and exquisite woodwork.
A description simply cannot do justice to the walking experience. When you walk down the lobby to the grand entrance, there is a dessert buffet with panoramic views from the ornate music room with touches of gold leaf, to the impressive lobby with hand-painted paint and opulent details, to the multi-level staircase with two Juliet. balconies, to the living room adorned with natural American chestnut woodwork. Each shade and accessory has been carefully selected and the finishing work dresses every corner. The study with the fox hunting murals transports visitors to the English countryside. In fact, each room in this manor house has its own history and experience.
The current owners are passionate cooks and the kitchen reflects their talents with Wolf, Sub-Zero, and Bosch appliances paired with custom cabinetry, granite, and trim that are appropriate for this inviting space. Wine connoisseurs will love not only the Sub-Zero wine cooler in the kitchen that properly stores red and white wines at separate temperatures, but also the dedicated wine cellar with temperature and humidity control.
This house has been featured in various media outlets, from television shows like the Chronicle, to print media, most recently the Boston Herald’s House of the Week, plus Boston Magazine, Boston Globe, and local newspapers. It has been said that it would make an ideal governor’s mansion, as the perfect home for entertaining, near Boston. The governor could walk to the train from this pristine East Side Country Club neighborhood.