Back Bay Home of the Week: 177 Commonwealth Ave., Unit 5

This elegant second-floor condominium on Boston's legendary Commonwealth Avenue is a perfect illustration why homebuyers choose to reside in this historic district. This 230 year-old home possesses all the period details and architectural designs one would expect from its age and location and has been preserved and tastefully enhanced to allow those vintage features to shine while still offering many contemporary enhancements and conveniences. In one short phrase, a perfect eclectic blend of yesterday and today.

Potential homeowners will be more than pleasantly surprised after viewing this magnificent home with its spacious and open floor plan. Soaring ceilings and oversized windows not only provide spectacular views of the city and the Commonwealth Ave. Mall, but also drench the spaces with natural sunlight. The main common area is an enormous enough space to combine a living and dining room and the perfect setting for formal entertaining. The walls are lined with rich, natural wood from floor to ceiling and include decorative moldings and built-ins. The majestic fireplace takes second place only to the picturesque scenery with an ornate mantel and carvings that stretch to the ceiling.

The large galley kitchen offers a surprisingly amount of cabinet and granite counter space and even supplies the organic warmth of a fireplace. The bedroom in this home is as equally impressive as its living area, not only in size but in design with a patterned ceiling, impressed wood on the walls and doors and another striking fireplace. This room also presents an enclosed study that would make an ideal home office or nursery.

Even the common areas of this self-managed antique building make extraordinary presentations, such as the stunning fireplaced common lobby with a dual stairway that formulates a fitting introduction to guests and visitors.

This rowhouse is located in the heart of the Back Bay between Dartmouth and Exeter Sts. within walking distance to public transportation and to take advantage of all the city of Boston has to offer. One off-street parking space is included in the sale of this home for those weekend getaways, but chances are, with this location and stylish accommodations, staycations will often win time and again.

Location: 177 Commonwealth Ave., Unit 5

Price: $1,395,000

Rooms: 3

Bedrooms: 1

Bath: 2 full

Living Area: 1,695 sq. ft.

Fireplaces: 3

Listing Agent: Julie Harrison, Gibson Sotheby's International Realty, 617-413-6332

Virtual Tour: http://myemail.constantcontact.com/177-Commonwealth-Avenue--5-History.ht...

If you are a Realtor or a home owner selling a home and want to be featured in an upcoming Home of the Week, please email Michele Taranto at m.taranto@aol.com.