This handsome 2,893 sq. ft. Late Victorian townhome blends ornate details with modern amenities in the heart of historic downtown Albany. Designed and built by a prominent architect for his own family in 1885, it impresses from the covered front porch with original door through the stunning grand foyer and throughout its three levels each highlighted with period craftsmanship. Beyond the character, it also offers Andersen replacement windows throughout, an updated boiler, an elegant tiled modern ensuite bathroom, refinished hardwood flooring and hand-restored intricate millwork. Maintained by one family since 1980, it stands proudly on a corner lot with a spacious backyard just steps from Washington Park, Albany Med, SUNY downtown campus, Albany College of Pharmacy, Albany Law School and more.

Living Space: The covered front porch welcomes guests and provides a perch above the street. Inside, take in the dramatic foyer with statement staircase, mahogany wainscot walls, coffered ceiling, and trim, decorative leaded window and the first of the home’s three striking fireplaces with cast iron insert. Hardwood flooring begins underfoot here and runs throughout the home.

The living room on left is trimmed in natural cherry with a still-functional pocket door and is flooded with natural light from the stunning arched front window. Here the second fireplace features a brick surround, tile hearth, painted wainscot frame with cherry mantle and dental molding. Custom radiator covers throughout the home incorporate modern craftsmanship and practicality.

On the opposite side of the foyer is the spacious dining room. Surprisingly open, it could easily accommodate a formal table with sideboard. Currently it offers a more comfortable vibe, holding a dining table with separate sitting area, becoming an extension of the kitchen. The entire space is wrapped in custom wainscot trim work with a welcomed wall of windows.

The kitchen is unassuming but highly functional, highlighted with a wall of built-in cabinetry featuring detailed raised panel doors and original hinges. Modular white cabinetry completes the storage and provides ample prep space working alongside the original brick chimney with vent hood. Stainless appliances and deep basin sink are ready to work. An original glass door with working transom window above it leads to the enclosed back porch and yard beyond for easy grilling and outdoor dining. Overhead, recessed lighting lights the space.

A powder bathroom is tucked away on the first floor with tiled flooring, exposed brick wall and updated fixtures. A back hall provides access to the basement and wall hanging space via hooks. A built-in bench sits adjacent to the staircase with traditional hinged seat for storage.

Second Floor: Follow the beautiful staircase with ornate newel posts and decorative ballusters to the second floor. Each room on the floor is topped with a glass transom window ensuring exceptional natural light on this level.

On right you’ll enter the primary suite, a true retreat at day’s end. Spacious and bright, this room is large enough for a king bed with sitting area and bedroom furniture. The third fireplace features a decorative cast iron insert and brick surround. Light and bright the crown molding and trim are painted a crisp white on this level. A walk-in closet is at the ready, and the modern ensuite bathroom is attached featuring a gleaming oversized tiled shower with frameless glass enclosure and penny tile floor. The updated vanity with marble countertop and wall-mounted toilet are lovely and functional amenities.

Two more bedrooms are on the floor separated by the second full bathroom with a tiled cast-iron tub/shower and modern vanity. A linen closet with built-in drawers sits conveniently in the hall.

Another flight of stairs leads to the surprisingly fabulous third floor. Recently updated with durable (and quiet) laminate flooring, this third level is also well-lit thanks to transom windows above the doors.

Perhaps the coolest room – and best vantage point of the street – the fourth bedroom was built into the turret providing a dramatic bank of windows. The fifth bedroom is next door and a full bathroom with stall shower and modern vanity sits in the hallway.

Basement & Mechanicals: The full basement offers storage and holds a gas-fired boiler for hot water radiator heat throughout the home and a 200-amp updated electric panel. The home is connected to public water and sewer. Bilko doors lead up to the backyard for easy storage space. 

Exterior: The exterior features different textures painted in one rich cocoa color. Different sections of brick, cedar shake and horizontal siding add detail to the monochromatic look. Andersen replacement windows were installed throughout the home and there are levelor blinds installed inside. Topping it all is an asphalt shingled roof.

Outside: Off the enclosed rear porch you’ll find a deep backyard protected from passersby on the street by its elevation. You’ll feel a sense of privacy there and see the potential for enclosing the space for a garden, pool or dog use! A flight of original concrete steps lead to the sidewalk.

Location: Just up the street from the popular 80-acre Washington Park which offers bike/walking paths, monuments, the Lake House, stock pond, playgrounds, tennis courts and annual events, like the famous Tulip Festival. This convenient location offers dedicated owner parking on the side street and is close to Albany Medical Center, St. Peter’s and the area colleges as well as cultural, retail, entertainment and dining highlights. There is easy access to I-90 and I-87 for a quick commute in any direction. 

Book your private showing today to see this unique property!

Note: None of the home’s fireplaces are currently operational and are to be excluded from inspections. The primary ensuite bathroom was completed without a permit or C.O. and no credit will be provided.