8500 Seminole St, Philadelphia, PA 19118

When you’ve had a hand in the design of the Philadelphia Museum of Art, your own residence must serve not only as a professional calling card of sorts but also as a delightful oasis for your family. “Greenacre”, architect Clarence C. Zantzinger’s grand-scale home in an ideal Chestnut Hill location, was built in 1911 during the height of the Arts & Crafts movement. From its one-of-a-kind mahogany entry doors to its Mercer tile floors grand scale tall windows, numerous fireplaces and exquisite moldings, this home is a showpiece for early 20th-century craftsmanship. It was designed for gracious, comfortable living, with formal rooms separated by floor-to-ceiling doors and all with multiple sets of French doors opening to a full-length rear patio. From the patio take in its private, lush, two-acre setting, designed by the Olmsted brothers. An expanse of rolling lawn, mature trees and swimming pool create a private world that is just 25 minutes to Central Philadelphia. Throughout the year and especially in winter, the sunroom with fireplace and Mercer tile floor is awash in natural light. Mr. Zantzinger’s office, designated by the pediment that serves as an homage to the Art Museum, is also at this end of the house along with a powder room. At the opposite end, adjacent to the dining room, a large updated kitchen stands ready to serve the most ambitious chef as well as the everyday cook. The butler’s pantry, straight out of 1911, is loaded with storage and fun features like the original refrigerator/freezer and double sink. A window-lined mudroom provides more storage and is the perfect everyday entrance from the detached garage. A wide stairwell leads to private quarters on the second floor, including a main suite that wraps into it a sitting room, dressing room, full bath and large bedroom with a commanding view of the rear grounds and an exquisite American sycamore tree. Two additional bedrooms, two hall baths, and a large guest suite with fireplace study offer an excellent floor plan. Extensive linen storage and a laundry room complete the second level. Upstairs offers yet more space, all with high ceilings, to be used as you like ~ a lounge now used as a media room includes a fireplace with Grueby Faience tile surround. Create overflow guest space or an au pair suite, billiard room, fitness room or more. The detached two car garage includes a lovely, cozy apartment, houses the pool and gardening equipment. “Greenacre” is notable for its history and for the opportunity it offers today to enjoy an exceptional lifestyle, in a leafy setting, just a short walk to the Chestnut Hill village, shops, restaurants and the coveted Wissahickon trails