All right let’s get this out of the way — though built in 1952, this Midcentury Rivercrest spread has been lavishly reworked and updated. While purists may decry the updates, there is no denying that the transformation has been beautifully managed with striking spaces and deluxe finish-out.
Still preserved is the orientation of the residence, whose angles draw the visitor inwards to the entrance. Practically unnoticed is the two-car garage at the property’s edge. A circular drive at the front puts the focus squarely on the residential blocks.
Somewhat unconventionally, the entrance isn’t so much a vestibule proper as a corridor running along the front to funnel traffic into the various public spaces. The rambling floor plan of the 4,272-square-foot, four-bedroom, four-and-one-half-bath house is open rather than open concept. Instead, it is conceived as a series of linked spaces of unique design.
This is the sort of house that makes you love white. Spectacular fenestration fills the gallery-like walls with abundant light. Color would impair the effect.
Remarkably, according to listing agent Martha Williams, this house has had only one owner. And, again lest you bemoan the loss of the original state of the residence, this house had a brief stint on the market before the thorough overhaul and there was little interest. The estate decided that the best course of action would be a complete renovation with opulent fittings and fixtures.
The dining room was one of the areas where space was robbed to create more useful space elsewhere. What remains is an elegant and intimate area with a subtle tent-like ceiling springing from columns at both entrances.
The next buyer will benefit from a state-of-the-art kitchen with top-of-the-line appliances. Embedded into the center island is a 60-inch gas cooktop capped by a super serious vent. Two-tone cabinetry, marble countertops, and celedon subway tile add another layer of subtle elegance. The cabinet hardware and faucet are brass.
The primary suite is truly impressive and includes a large bedroom with a sitting area an attached office a lavish bath and a super-sized closet.
There is a freshness in the approach to the bathroom decor. Nothing is as expected. Observe the shape of the mirror. Instead of sconces flanking the mirror, there are two pendant lights. The bath is an unusual organic shape. The tile in all of the baths is stylish and out of the ordinary.
A balcony runs along the back of the house. Each bathroom upholds the high standards set by the primary bath. Exquisite tile and hardware, pale aqua walls, and a vintage-look console sink create a luxurious hotel spa environment.
Complex coffering provides shade over the terrace which overlooks the back garden. Steps lead into the yard and provide access to a lower level bedroom now a second living area.
Curious? You might want to attend one of the open houses scheduled for noon to 2 p.m. on both Saturday, Sept. 9, and Sunday, Sept. 10.
Post Script: Martha Williams generously forwarded before pictures of the Hazelwood Drive property and very little of significance was altered in the floor plan. The large arched windows don’t look very mid century but if replaced were done so by the owner. I am willing to attest to the fact that the revamp is a stellar improvement.
Martha Williams of William Trew Real Estate has priced 421 Hazelwood Drive at $1.985 million.
