On the Market: An Endearing Eighteenth-Century Residence in Marblehead

Photo by Lightshed Photography Studio

12 Middle St., Marblehead
Price: $1,295,000
Size: 2,244 square feet
Bedrooms: 4
Baths: 2.5

If you’re strolling down Middle Street in Marblehead, it’s tough not to spot this 1750-built, salmon-hued clapboard gem, primarily because it’s so dang charming. Located less than a mile from the seaside on a quiet street in Marblehead’s historical “Old Town” neighborhood, the dwelling was originally home to a fisherman and minister who, according to listing agent Eric Suhr, later disappeared at sea. More recently, the house was the residence of painter and graphic artist Roberto Moya, who passed away in 2008. In addition to the home’s storied past and abundant eighteenth-century character, it also comes equipped with modern plumbing and heating as well as abundant storage, thanks to a major renovation in 1995. Despite the overhaul, though, the home’s original woodwork details and historical character remain intact.

Stepping through the front doorway and into the home’s sitting area, you’ll set foot on antique wide plank pine floors and find yourself in a space with a grand staircase and abundant light. Like most of the home, the room is illuminated with custom recessed light fixtures chosen to best showcase Moya’s work on the walls. The room is also furnished with an original brick fireplace, one of three on the first floor.

You’ll enjoy another hearth in the living room—a cozy space next to the sitting area with windows that look out over Middle Street—and in the dining room, which is located just beyond the sitting area. This roomy, light-filled gathering space connects to the kitchen, which is outfitted with custom cabinetry and a backsplash of handmade ceramic tiles. And if you fancy dining alfresco, you’re in luck: The kitchen connects to the outdoor brick patio, where you can dine surrounded by mature plantings and perennials.

Upstairs, the dwelling boasts four bedrooms, three of which have fireplaces. The spacious and serene main bedroom features its own bathroom, complete with marble floors and shower tiles, Jado fixtures, and custom brass handrails in the shower.

Outside, in addition to the fenced-in brick patio with plenty of space for lounging and grilling, you’ll find a petite pink clapboard potting shed enhanced with electricity and a refrigerator. And even when you’re not outdoors, you’ll still be able to enjoy the landscape, thanks to the home’s unique floorplan and siting. “The property is shaped like an ‘L,’ so the focal points of everything inside are to enjoy the brick patio view,” says Suhr. “When you’re in the house, you find yourself constantly looking out toward the patio and it’s an incredible feeling.”

For more information, contact Eric Suhr, William Raveis, raveis.com.

Photo by Lightshed Photography Studio

Photo by Lightshed Photography Studio

Photo by Lightshed Photography Studio

Photo by Lightshed Photography Studio

Photo by Lightshed Photography Studio

Photo by Lightshed Photography Studio

Photo by Lightshed Photography Studio

Photo by Lightshed Photography Studio

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