Known equally for its expansive land and eclectic mix of architecture, Western Pennsylvania’s unique combination of the two makes for houses that are visually impressive and functional. Many homeowners have capitalized on this delicate balance and shaped their properties to reap the benefits of their outdoor inspirations. Check out these real estate listings for October 2012.
by Katie Flaherty | Photos courtesy Prudential Preferred Realty, Apple Box Studios, and Howard Hanna Real Estate
LIVE-IN ART
The neighbors will be green with envy of this three-floored architectural paradise in Mt. Lebanon. That’s not to mention the coveted cul-de-sac location. With gorgeous, high, peaked ceilings and multiple balconies that tower over an expansive yard of gardens and greens, this home is as visually artistic as it is livable. Inside, a striking spiral wooden staircase leads to a large foyer with hardwood floors. The four bedrooms, six full and three and a half baths are characterized by their vast openness and are inundated with natural light from the tall windows, vaulted ceilings, and skylights. This luxurious and uniquely designed home is an entertainer’s dream with an elevator, indoor swimming pool, and sauna. For more information, contact JoAnn Robb with Prudential Preferred Realty, 412.833.7700. prudentialpreferred.com.
238 Twin Hills Drive is listed at $795,000.
A MODERN QUAINTNESS
Situated on three-plus acres, this turn-of-the-century home has been made modern with the incorporation of a great room, gourmet kitchen, and master suite. The house is surrounded by a lush oasis of gardens and a white picket fence. Reminiscent of a Victorian-era farmhouse, the great room has wood floors and beams that outline cathedral ceilings and surround terrace windows and doors. The three bedroom, four bath home brings the quaintness of its early 20th century conception, but is equipped with the modern needs of today’s homeowners. The master suite includes dual sinks and showers, a garden tub, gas fireplace, two walk-in closets, and a separate shoe closet. A deck attached to back of the house leads to gravel walkways that meander around four ponds with Japanese koi and lily pads. There are also six indoor fireplaces. For more information, contact Barbara Taylor with Northwood Realty, 724.658.6645. northwood.com.
4045 Hillsville Road is listed at $365,000.
ARCHITECTURAL WONDER
This rustic haven is the architectural feat of commissioned Pittsburgh designers Tim Sutton and James Cardillo, who pulled their inspiration from Frank Lloyd Wright’s legendary Kentuck Knob. The modern-day treehouse overlooks 21 acres of forest in Westmoreland County. Constructed from hand-cut stone out of Slippery Rock, this ranch-style estate offers two levels of living encompassing more than 9,500 square feet. Boasting eight bedrooms with a matching eight and one-half baths, Grouse Ridge has stunning red cedar walls and vaulted ceilings. Designed to accent its location, the exterior has as many unique features as the interior. The wrap-around terraces overlook the treetops and stream below. Off the master wing on the main level is a ceramic tile infinity pool, covered veranda, and open stone terrace. The location of the pool gives onlookers the illusion of floating in sky. This woodland sanctuary is only minutes from both Seven Springs and Hidden Valley Ski Resorts. For more information, contact Sue Sheedy with Howard Hanna Real Estate, 724.238.9099. howardhanna.com.
223 Grouse Ridge Lane is listed at $3.5 million.
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This article is featured in the October 2012 issue of WHIRL Magazine.
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