Even in a neighborhood renowned for its unique character, this Fairmount beauty is an exceptional residence. More classical pavilion than the more usual Craftsman bungalow, this 1903 build at 2264 Lipscomb is also larger than the norm. At over 3,100 square feet this four-bedroom, two-and-one-half-bath home is about one-third larger than the Fairmount average.
However, this leg of Lipscomb is about as good as it gets in Fairmount, with several imposing columned two story houses, though they don’t generally possess the bijoux delicacy of this corner lot listing.
The winsome symmetrical structure is approached from a red brick paver walkway that mirrors the red brick veneer of the house. Ganged, modified Doric columns support the triangular pediment and over porch eaves.
The ambiance is certainly elegant, touching on refined. A hallway runs front to back with a sight line only slightly interrupted by a column-flanked opening. On either side of the foyer at front are twin living areas. The original oak floors have been preserved upstairs and down.
Rooms are beautifully proportioned with large, vintage, decorative windows, millwork, cornices, and nine-foot ceilings. The spacious, eat-in kitchen has a period feel with drop, schoolhouse pendant lights, central ceiling fan, and bead board ceiling. The footprint appears to be original with a gas range and kitchen sinks fitting tidily under the two large windows.
The staircase to the second floor is located at the back of the house. From the hall, one can glimpse a bathroom with a claw-footed tub. Notice the over-door transom window to help circulate the air before air conditioning.
The principal bedroom on the ground floor is part of a suite that includes a bath and separate, private courtyard.
Sad to say, the bath looks like it was conceived in a single afternoon on the aisles of a retail big box, but no house is perfect. The updated plan with a large-ish shower stall is practical and I appreciate the oval mirror matching the pedestal below, but drab surfaces and fittings definitely need a rethink. In the mean time, one gallon of a rich, saturated green would greatly improve the situation.
Like many 119-year-old houses there is a dearth of closet space. Ikea and armoires to the rescue! The attic has been finished out and currently serves as a nursery/playroom.
The large-for-Fairmount lot is blessed with many mature trees. An elegant curved drive at side leads to a four-car garage — unheard of in Fairmount.
Above the garages are two studio apartments, each with a kitchenette, offering substantial rental income potential. At $318 per square foot, the listing is above the high end of Fairmount’s $280-per-square-foot average. However, the 3,100-square-foot official number excludes the additional 995 square feet in the apartments.
Starlyn Smith of Century 21 Alliance Properties has priced 2264 Lipscomb at $995,000.
