Welcome to 8003 Navajo, an elegant stone Cotswold-style residence built on land originally owned by George Woodward. Anecdotally per the current owner, it was in fact designed by Woodward's good friend Mrs. Rhoda Howe Low in collaboration with renowned architect, Robert Rhodes McGoodwin, to challenge Woodward to see who could build the superior residence. This begs the question, who was the winner?
Nestled on a nearly private lane in Chestnut Hill's most desirable area, this rare gem has not been on the market since 1978. Inside, you'll find a remarkably maintained and tastefully updated interior. A grand foyer with a beamed ceiling, seating nook, and arched doorways welcomes you. To the left, a spacious living room features gorgeous wood built-in shelving and cabinets surrounding the windows, offering views of both front and rear yards. Beautiful wide-plank hardwood floors and a classic fireplace complete the space. Continue through to the light-filled enclosed porch with arched glass doorways that lead to the front and rear patios, surrounded by greenery year-round.
On the other side of the foyer, a formal dining room awaits, showcasing period light fixtures, another stone fireplace with an elegant natural wood mantle, and access to a lovely covered patio for outdoor dining. The updated kitchen boasts exposed beams reclaimed from an 1840's residence in Queen Village, a greenhouse window, creating a stylish space for cooking, entertaining, and displaying treasured heirlooms in the floor-to-ceiling built-in cabinets. From here, step onto a stone patio overlooking the expansive fenced garden or find a delightful, wallpapered anteroom with a powder room, basement access, and a tastefully retrofitted elevator to the second floor. A spacious food pantry, laundry room with broom closet, and entrance to the attached oversized garage complete this level.
Ascend the stairs to the second floor, where you'll be greeted by a charming dressing room, complete with a stunning fireplace flanked by a custom-built bookshelf. On the opposite wall, bespoke storage solutions offer both beauty and functionality. This serene space leads into the primary bedroom. With a striking wood burning fireplace, French doors opening to a private balcony, and an abundance of natural light, this room offers the perfect place to begin and end your day. A short hallway with closets on both sides leads to the primary bath featuring a window seat with heated storage and convenient access to the hallway. Rounding out the primary suite is the den with custom built-ins while offering breathtaking views of the front gardens. Down the hall French doors lead to another private balcony, where you can overlook the lush backyard. The large front bedroom features another fireplace and is filled with natural light. The back bedroom is equally spacious and boasts an incredible bonus room attached--perfect for a private yoga studio, pilates room, craft area, playroom, etc. Another full bathroom completes this floor. The third floor offers three additional bedrooms, each bright and well-proportioned, along with a full bath featuring an original clawfoot tub.
This home is truly extraordinary with five stunning fireplaces, original hardwood floors, custom window treatments, thoughtfully selected light fixtures, and an abundance of natural light throughout. Recent improvements include new windows, complete remediation of knob and tube wiring, a new boiler, and fresh paint throughout.
Built in 1924, this exquisite home was recently recognized by Chestnut Hill Conservancy and entered into their Architectural Hall of Fame. Steps from Pastorius Park, a short walk to all of the amenities along Germantown Avenue in Chestnut Hill. This home is also within walking distance to Springside Chesntut Hill, The Cricket Club, The Saint Martins Lane Train SEPTA station, Pastorius Park, and just a bit further to a number of hiking/biking/horseback riding trails of the Wissahickon.
