Sometimes two forces meet and the result is pure perfection. This property, which attracted a lot of attention in its state of disrepair in 2001, has 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 has been completely revamped, but more importantly, the current owners have created ideal, high-end kitchens and bathrooms for 21st century living, with architectural history in mind.
This house carries a mystique and an amazing attraction for those who discover it. Named for the dripping details on the columns, porches, balustrade and moldings that decorate the exterior like icing, the “Wedding Cake House” has a sister in Kennebunk, Maine, which is considered one of the most photographed in the country, but the locals know that our Wedding Cake House is, well, sexier, if perhaps less famous.
To say that the curb appeal is exquisite feels like an understatement, but it’s important to note that the owners emphasize that this is a very liveable home. Truly no expense has been spared in the complete restoration of this neoclassical revival. We must keep in mind that there is over 5000 square feet of living space: 4 stories, 14 rooms, 5-6 bedrooms, 7 fireplaces, 3 car garage, 4 full baths and 1 half bath on almost ¾ acre lot. Needless to say, all the systems and upgrades have been done, but the devil is in the details, from re-bronzing all the original hardware and accessories to the painstaking restoration of the murals and exquisite woodwork.
A description simply cannot do the walking experience justice. As you walk through the foyer into the grand entrance, there is a dessert buffet with panoramic views from the gold leaf adorned music room, to the stunning foyer with opulent, hand-painted details, to the multi-tiered staircase with two Juliet’s. balconies, to the living room adorned with all natural American Chestnut carpentry. Each tone 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 stately home has its own story and experience.
The current owners are avid cooks, and the kitchen reflects their talents with Wolf, Sub-Zero, and Bosch appliances paired with custom cabinetry, granite, and crown molding that are appropriate for this inviting space. Wine connoisseurs will love not only the Sub-Zero wine cooler in the kitchen that conveniently stores red and white wines at separate temperatures, but also the dedicated temperature and humidity controlled wine cellar.
This house has been featured in various media outlets, from TV shows like the Chronicle to print media, most recently as the Boston Herald’s House of the Week, as well as Boston Magazine, the Boston Globe, and local newspapers. It has been said that it would be the ideal Governor’s Mansion, as the perfect entertainment home, near Boston. Wow, the Governor could walk to the train from this pristine East Side Country Club neighborhood.