The “It Factor:” there’s no easily quantifiable explanation, but certain things in life are more hip, au courant, and exciting than others. One of Center City’s artsiest, funkiest, and most exciting neighborhoods, Washington Square West has “it” going on in spades. WashSquare West crams gorgeous historic homes, ultra-trendy shops and eats, Antique Row, and the Gayborhood into just 25 hex acres… it is, quite literally, busting with cool. This is the perfect nabe for professional singles, couples, or small families looking to tap into the vibrancy and ultra-accessibility of WSW. To that end, check out this trio of 2/1 homes on open house this weekend. Who knows? You might just find the nest of your dreams.
I’ve got a certifiable house crush on 331 S. Camac Street. I want to hold its hand and send it love notes folded in awesome shapes like we did in the days before Tinder and #selfies. But anyway. This bandbox-tidy, meticulously appointed 2/1 was built in the 1800s, and has been adoringly preserved like a lightbox of historic Philadelphian fierceness. From the dusty navy of the living rooms walls to the oversized crown molding throughout and picture-perfect bay window overlooking the back yard, character just abounds here. The kitchen is a knockout, sporting prim white cabinets and top-of-the-line appliances. Venture upstairs and be delighted by exposed beam ceilings, the second of two wood-burning fireplaces, original wainscoting, and a master bath that is truly among the most delicious I’ve seen in a rowhouse. Vaulted ceilings and cunning skylights are the finishing touches that make this feel like a slice of heaven. This property is listed at $549,500 and is open Sunday from 1:30 – 2:30pm.
Another standout is 313 S. Juniper Street, a former carriage house with ample appeal. It’s another 2/1, with two floors and 953 sq. ft. IT HAS A ONE-CAR GARAGE! (I might as well get that in right away.) I completely dig the open floorplan on the first floor, which is highlighted by a newly-reno’d kitchen with stainless appliances and Corian countertops and luscious hardwood floors. The second floor glows with buckets of skylight sunshine and is split between two bedrooms – the second of which is currently open and sporting fantastic built-in wooden shelving, as well as an updated bathroom with separate laundry room. An unfinished attic and generous storage space beneath the stairs ensure that you’ll comfortably stow all your stuff. There’s fresh paint everywhere, contributing to the light and bright flow of the whole home. This property is listed at $454,000 and is open Sunday from 12 – 1pm.
Located off a gorgeously-picturesque cobblestone street, 1220 Panama Street exudes hominess and potential. A cozy 2/1 at 840 sq.ft., it boasts one of the most convenient and centrally-located addresses in WSW. The Trinity layout of this home, consisting of one main room on each floor, is one of Philly’s ubiquitous styles, and unforgettably evocative of the building’s early 19th century origins. The ground floor sports a living room with exposed beams and a fireplace, as well as a kitchen clad in stately granite countertops and brick flooring. The second floor is devoted to the master bedroom and bath, with a Juliet balcony looking out over the (bricked, private!) back yard, and then, on the top floor, there’s the sweetest little dormer-style bedroom you could imagine. This property is listed at $379,900 and is open Sunday from 12 – 1pm.