Jawdropper of the Week: History Now in Society Hill

The house where James and Dolley Madison once lived combines 18th-century elegance with 21st-century functionality and amenities.

James and Dolley Madison House, Philadelphia, PA 19106 | TREND Images via RE/MAX Main Line

James and Dolley Madison House, Philadelphia, PA 19106 | TREND Images via RE/MAX Main Line

Our Founders, it turns out, were very forward-thinking people.

At least that’s the impression we get after taking a look at the house James and Dolley Madison once occupied in Society Hill.

Who knew they invented the open plan main floor? We sure didn’t.

Truth to tell, the Madisons have nothing to do with the way this spectacular Federal townhouse looks now. Its inside is the product of a meticulous top-to-bottom renovation that respects the home’s historic heritage while filling it with all the latest in style, comfort, features and amenities.

You enter this home much as you would have in the 1700s, via a long entrance hall from the front door. But once past the foyer, you’re in a modern classic.

The dining and living rooms are a single, open, seamless space with a fireplace and lots of light thanks to full-width French doors along the back wall that open out onto a landscaped garden. Up front, next to the entrance hall, is a modern kitchen featuring chef-quality stainless steel appliances, granite countertops and even a computer workstation.

Upstairs are four bedrooms and just as many bathrooms, including a sumptuous master bedroom and master bathroom with steam shower and stone tile floors and walls.

That garden is one of three distinct outdoor spaces this home boasts. There’s also a New Orleans-style porch off the second floor, connected to the garden by a spiral staircase, and on top of the rebuilt garage is a sun deck with a sunken Jacuzzi tub.

There’s also a finished basement and an elegant home office/study.

Where is this home located? We can’t give you its exact address, but it’s a familiar sight for residents of and visitors to Society Hill. If you enjoy nightlife and fine dining, it’s also convenient to Old City, South Street/Headhouse Square and Washington Square West.

THE FINE PRINT

BEDS: 4

BATHS: 4 full, 1 half

SALE PRICE: $3,200,000

OTHER STUFF: Buyers visiting this home should have a pre-approval or signed buyer financial information.

Undisclosed Address, Philadelphia, PA 19106 [Marie DeZarate | RE/MAX Main Line]