2862 Fairmount Boulevard (1994)

This Tudor Revival house is a classic example of the grand manner of Cleveland area residential design in the early part of the twentieth century, when architectural detail in both interior and exterior features had its heyday. The house, which sits on just over an acre, has recently undergone relandscaping and driveway repaving. In replacing the roof, the owners chose to duplicate the built-in gutters, which were probably a custom feature at the time it was built.

The ceiling plasterwork in the living room is truly remarkable. It features an interwoven circular pattern with rosettes at the intersections of each circle. Also of particular interest is the mantel; the side carvings are of scallops and flowers and the finish on the pediment is a striated overlay of varnish. Diamond patterned windows are set above the French doors to the sun porch on the side. This porch had at one time been exterior, as evidenced by the lathe ceiling and heavy stone thresholds.

The dining room is one of the most stunning rooms in the house in both architectural detail and furnishing. The gas fireplace in this room is often used, as this room is a favorite for entertaining. Leaded glass windows are set above the corner window seat. The crystal chandelier was designed by the owner's father, who made it to match the nickel and brass candle lamp on the buffet (now painted in 14 carat gold) which had belonged to another family member. A treasured possession is the tatted runner on the buffet in the bay window made by a grandmother in Hungary. Of particular note is the simple window treatment for the front bay, which mirrors and enhances the diamond pattern in the upper windows. Built-in cabinets, refrigerator, and wine rack are set into an arched alcove.

Upstairs, the master bath holds a singular curiosity in the form of a safe set into the wall under a wide marble sill. The present owners' inquisitiveness was so piqued that a safecracker was hired to reveal the contents. Unfortunately, they were rewarded with only the dates shown on the safe -1906 and 1907 - but still had the satisfaction that they were the first owners to see the inside of the safe in three decades. The Jacuzzi set into the bath/shower is a modern counterpoint to this charming curiosity.