1025 WESTVIEW STREET

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, 19119 United States

Remarkable for its history, masterful design and meticulous condition, Leeds House was originally conceived for conductor Leopold Stokowski by leading Philadelphia architects Mellor & Meigs. The architects later enlisted Morris E. Leeds to commission their ultimate country house within the city. By 1931, Morris and Hadassah Leeds realized their dream, sparing no expense to create a residence that remains an outstanding example of Norman Revival architecture and artisan craftsmanship. Beautifully sited on 1.25 parklike acres, it offers 7 bedrooms and 7.1 baths. The grand entry hall, three stories high with exposed timbers and second-floor balcony, is dramatic and light-filled. Beautifully proportioned formal rooms, with high ceilings, tall casement windows, fireplaces, and expansive wall spaces for art, encourage entertaining. Yet, this sophisticated 10,000-square-foot house is ideal for everyday living with an open floor plan that includes formal living room and dining room, library/den, and study. A generous gourmet kitchen with a large casual dining area is reached through a spectacular butler's pantry. Upstairs is a wealth of livable space. Most stunning is the master bedroom suite, where sleeping quarters can be awash in light from sunrise to sunset, and a sitting room is an airy retreat. The renovated master bath, finished in basalt, has striking garden views. Two other large en suite bedrooms, each with updated bathrooms, offer "treehouse" views of the grounds. Another second-story wing provides a gallery-style hall leading to rooms well suited for bedrooms, offices, and children's spaces. With kitchenette, two full baths, rear stairwell to the kitchen, and outside entrance, this wing can serve as comfortable guest or staff accommodations. The lush grounds, designed by Harrison, Mertz & Emlen, are bordered in stone walls and laced with specimen trees and shrubs that provide color and visual interest through the seasons. A terrace lawn extends to the heated pool in a private setting. Accessible via stone paths through informal gardens, the lower grounds and lawn are next to Wissahickon Park. On West Mount Airy's best block, Leeds House is a wonderful example of a preeminent Philadelphia home, in exceptional condition, with all the modern amenities. Its enduring architecture, craftsmanship and natural surroundings will be as compelling in 2030 as in 1930. Its unique location, just steps from the beloved Wissahickon Trails, offers a quick commute to center city Philadelphia or drive to Manhattan.

Listing Courtesy of Kurfiss Sotheby's International Realty