City House of the Week: Double Lot in Fitler Square Boasts 60-Foot Garden Sanctuary

The renovation was done by Brett Webber Architects.

Images by TREND via BHHS Fox & Roach–Center City, Rittenhouse Hotel

Images by TREND via BHHS Fox & Roach–Center City, Rittenhouse Hotel

Here’s the deal. The weather is sunny and warm. You deserve to spend what little free time you have in your busy life outside on some lush green grass. This home near Fitler Square offers something that’s particularly rare these days: an expansive, 60-foot long garden with a delightful lawn that’s perfect for lounging, gardening, yoga, playing bocce or even playtime with the kids. What’s more, the home itself was completely designed and renovated by architect Brett Webber, a firm that knows a thing or two about amazing spaces.

What makes the outdoor area special is that it’s a double lot, so there is plenty of room for just about anything. The lawn is flanked by planters and individual stone slabs make up the path that leads to the, ah-em, second patio space. Do you currently have a second patio? Well, this place does, friend. The best part is that the rear doors give you direct access to Panama Street, a picturesque alley-like street that’s probably one of the reasons you fell in love with Philadelphia in the first place.

The smart design is evident in the fact that each room and floor is enhanced by the amazing garden. The first floor features an open space with hardwood floors. It’s flooded with natural light, thanks to a spectacular set of French doors that flows into the garden. There’s also a wood burning fireplace in the living area. And don’t think we forgot about the kitchen! It flaunts slate floors, a stainless steel back splash, custom built cabinetry and, of course, high-end appliances by Viking and Sub-Zero.

Want to bring the outside in, so to speak? Fling open the French doors on the second and third floor and you’ll have yourself a fresh air party. The second floor has two bedrooms and an accompanying bathroom with a dual vanity and slate floors. The master suite can be found on the third floor, though it’s currently being used as a family room. Vaulted ceilings greet you in the subway-tiled master bath, also has a frameless glass shower. There’s also a cedar plank deck that gives tremendous views of the skyline. It’s true, you can never have too much outdoor space.

Probably the most alluring aspect of the home itself is the prime location. The private yard and high design are certainly stunning features, but can you really beat living literally steps from both Fitler Square (a half block away) and Schuylkill River Park (a block and a half away)? The answer is no, no you can’t.

An added bonus to the home is the lower level, which the listing says is “designed and finished as a high-end multi-purpose suite.” How so, you ask? For one, there’s a Murphy bed, which is a super cool and space-saving addition. There’s also built-in shelving, cabinets, a wine cellar and even a full bath with Grohe fixtures and a frameless glass shower. This could really come in handy when a certain someone from Vatican City visits our fair city in the fall.

THE FINE PRINT:
Beds: 3
Baths: 3
Square Feet: 2,453
Price: $1,270,000
Additional Info: Seller offering one year prepaid parking at 22nd and Pine