Well, that was fast. Just over one week. A bidding war. And now under active contract. Not surprising, because this quintessential Queen Anne at 1701 Fairmount Ave. has got it all. Built in 1920, the four-bedroom, three-bath cottage has over 2,800 square feet of stylishly updated living space.
I suppose I link the historic district of Fairmount with springtime because my first up-close experience was over ten years ago on the annual Fairmount Tour of Historic Homes. Now in its 43rd year, the tour has just announced dates and tickets — Mother’s Day weekend, when gardens in the irresistibly charming neighborhood are in full flower.
Unheard of for a Texas neighborhood, MLS rates the historic enclave 90/100 — a biker’s paradise and highly pedestrian friendly with the large array of restaurants on Magnolia an enjoyable short walk away.
Inside, the 105-year-old has been given a flashy update. Nearly all of the original features like hardwoods, windows, and millwork have been retained, the eye-popping updates achieved with minor but astute architectural additions like the paneling effect in the staircase, which draws attention to the oculus window, modern light fixtures, and a contemporary color palette.
High drama in the spacious living room is achieved with a strikingly bold elephant gray that wraps the living room. Contrasting ivory curtains are taken up to the ceilings, emphasizing their ten-foot height and providing additional interest to the space and the large, handsome windows.
By contrast, the dining area is given a modern take with an all white color scheme and contemporary furniture and fittings.
A casual sitting area with white canvas upholstery and rustic armoire leads into the updated kitchen with new appliances, cabinets, and quartz countertop.
All four bedrooms are on the second floor. The primary suite uses the same color as the living room. A modern fixture hangs from a traditional ceiling rosette. The bath is a masterful mix of old meets new. The slipper tub harkens back to the 1920’s. The glamorous modern shower stall features a high-end brass shower head, which bridges the past to the present.
Beautiful hand-painted green tiles form the dado and backdrop for the original tub/shower. The floor is a classic porcelain hex.
A beautiful and inviting, columned porch provides quiet respite with its views of Fairmount Avenue below.
Mike Philpot of League Real Estate has listed 1701 Fairmount Ave. at $740,000.
