Everyone loves a well-appointed, historic, fun or offbeat home, and Lexington is a haven for them all. This month, learn more about some of the coolest casas and hottest homes in our directory of delightful digs. From historic structures hearkening back to early Lexington days with trademark neighborhood designs, to the unique visions of abodes for modern living, we invite you to check them out. Some you can tour, others you can only troll, but all you'll enjoy-because the only criteria is cool.
Waveland State Historic Site
Constructed in 1845 by Joseph Bryan, the nephew of famous frontiersman Daniel Boone, Waveland is an excellent example of Greek Revival architecture. The style is particularly noted in the prominent Ionic columns.
Servants' quarters, a carpenter's shop, cobbler's shop, print shop, country store, blacksmith's shop and an ice house are among outbuildings on the premises that still stand as a testament to the home and its industrious tenants, who also made Waveland famous for its trotting horses.
Waveland is located at 225 Waveland Museum Ln. off US 27 (Nicholasville Rd.) in rural Fayette Co. Now the Kentucky Life Museum, the home is open for guided tours year-round, Mon.-Fri. from 9a.m.-4p.m., and Sun. from 1 p.m.-5 p.m. For more, (859) 272-3611.
- Information courtesy National Park Service
Why we like it: The level of preservation is encouraging in the south end of town where new developments are popping up all over!
The Firebrook Mansion
Acquired by Elijah Cartmell from Native American residents, the property originally featured a home that was constructed circa 1795 (now the guest house) and given to his daughter, Margaret Cartmell, upon her marriage to Joseph Bryan. The Bryans later acquired the remainder of the property, named it Bryan Place, and finished the main house in a period from 1839-1877.
The mansion's exterior is marked by its Flemish bond brick and native stone foundation. The mansion's and guesthouse's interiors both boast large fireplaces and paned windows set in wooden sills as well as six-panel doors and Georgian-style mantels. Outbuildings from the original property have been removed over the years to make room for newer construction, but the pieces went to good use. Timbers from a de-constructed smokehouse are now a part of the smokehouse at Ashland, the Henry Clay Estate.
The home changed hands several more times over the years to families such as the McCubbings, of Scotland, in 1878, at which time it was dubbed "Deanside." Carl and Helen Fortune purchased the home in 1953 and only a few years later in 1960, Deanside was sold to Dr. Stanley S. and Arline Parks. Over their 15 years, the Parkses made substantial changes such as the addition of the stately Ionic columns. Under the ownership of Russell and Jane Firestone, the name was changed to "Firebrook," and the property transformed into a Thoroughbred horse farm. Once more purchased and renamed-by Lynn Lee, Inc. and called "Coal Ridge,"-the property again saw improvements that made it desirable land for development. In 1986, the property returned to its previous name, "Firebrook," but took on a new identity-as a clubhouse for the new neighborhood of high-end homes.
Information courtesy Firebrook Neighborhood Association
Why we like it: The history reads like a real estate soap operaÖand the house still stands as a memory of times and people past. Plus it's still utilized to the fullest! -
Shady Lane and Tahoma
Though situated in the same neighborhood and separated by only a bend in the road, these two homes couldn't be more different. The Tahoma neighborhood, just off Nicholasville Road and tucked behind the picturesque University of Kentucky Arboretum, is a hidden gem not only for its prime location just a short distance from the medical centers and downtown Lexington, but also for its diversity of design.
Shady Lane
More traditional, European-country styling is noted in this home's rectangular construction, which is contrasted by the softness and craftsmanship of rounded gables on the second floor and a rounded front door. The choice of color for the structure is notable in its neutrality and contrasts well with a small but tasteful touch of teal.
Why we like it: Even the landscaping draws one to this home and, the closer you get to the house, the further you seem to get from present time!
Tahoma Road
The essence of modern styling is embodied in this home's partial exterior built of a corrugated aluminum with concrete window details and curved roof accents. The metal front door features inset square windows, and is flanked by textured glass. Outdoor fixtures also point to the modern style.
Why we like it: Bold, and individual, it makes a statement on the street!
DeSha Road
Tudor-style homes, sometimes also referred to as Medieval Revival, are always easy to spot and this gem is no exception. The timber-on-stucco element so common to the style is blended beautifully with dark brick, curved and sloping roof lines, and leaded glass. Modern comforts aren't excluded in this home, however-note the porch space that's perfect for evenings with friends and family.
Why we like it: It features a great combination of English Tudor and Southern hospitality-check out that porch!
Why we like it: The history reads like a real estate soap operaÖand the house still stands as a memory of times and people past. Plus it's still utilized to the fullest!
Wellington Arms
Maybe we're partial to old English, but this historic, four-level Tudor-style building is a staple of Lexington architecture, and the recent renovations have brought it back to the forefront. Constructed in the early 1930's, it's been home to many a prominent Lexington citizen over the yearsÖand probably more to come. Now luxury condominiums, the building's original stone and brick exterior were preserved-note the intricate leaded glass windows and copper pipes-while the interior has been remodeled.
Why we like it: It's urban loft living at its most Lexington-a blend of the best of both old and new worlds.
Second Street
Once the center of Lexington society, many of the homes on historic 2nd Street have fallen into disrepair over the years, but the roadway is experiencing a renaissance that will elevate the area to its previous heights. Again, the diversity of design-and usage of the properties (some of the old homes now house offices, others condominiums and yet others are private, single-family homes)-is a unique characteristic. From towering and stately mansions reminiscent of Charleston to the more urban construction that brings to mind Brooklyn Brownstones, this street has it all.
Why we like it: The architecture is as diverse-and friendly-as the neighborhood!
North Limestone
Driving down North Limestone, you might not notice the putty-gray 1790's home other than to comment on its exceptional preservation. But to see it only a few years ago, the remark might be slightly more animated. Further, to see beyond the traditional facade of this fully-renovated home (comfortably situated within one of the sometimes-challenging historic district preservation areas of downtown), the sheer art of blending preservation with innovation is breathtaking. According to architects Jon DeHart and Kimberli Bragg of ThoughtSpace Architecture and Interior Design, a major contemporary addition was conceptualized so as to pay homage to the original structure. Calculated contrast between old and new heightens the awareness and significance of each component of the house.
Why we like it: We could tell you all the reasons, but you've got to see it for yourself. Check out next month's issue for the full scoop!
Victory Avenue
According to Architect Rob Snyder, every house on Victory Avenue is special. We chose one that seems to embody the neighborhood values that he loves when he describes it. "Victory Avenue is special because of the urban arrangement of the houses on the street. They are very close to each other and very close to the sidewalk. This at once makes them all feel more substantial, and more enduring, but less self-important. More than anything, they seem to make a place where people live-together." Snyder continues, "It feels like a place for people.† Walking down this street just magically makes you feel at home, among people who must certainly all be friends." And certainly, walking by this home is a treat. The owners made the most of limited yard space with creative planting and trelliswork, and the classic craftsman styling prominently features another community element: a great front porch.
Why we (and Rob Snyder) like it: "It feels like a very rare place. It is refreshing, to see something different."
Bridgeport Drive
Approaching this home, it may be easy to first note the fieldstone construction that is commonplace on many cottage and ranch-style homes in the area, but it's soon clear that this is no ordinary layout. The roof pitch is sharp and angular, adding a unique dimension to a neighborhood of more traditionally styled homes. Fixtures highlight the overall influences of a '70s style architecture that may have seemed more common outside of an established suburban area.
Information courtesy Firebrook Neighborhood Association
Why we like it: This styling makes the '70s look groovy! -
Hobcaw Lane
Taking the Frank Lloyd Wright-esque goal of craftsman style-blending architecture with its surroundings-into consideration, this home's custom style is like few others around. It is nestled into the slight hillside with trees and a small stream surrounding it. A prominent element of the design is the large glass panels that serve as walls to shield the inhabitants from the elements while inviting in the natural beauty of the outdoors. Copper roofing also figures into the ideal of utilizing earthy components in the construction. The home blends into its surroundings only enough to fulfill those goals, but there's no missing it as a one-of-a-kind custom home.
Why we like it: The intent of design makes you feel like you're living in the middle of the woods but maintains all the comforts of modern life!