883 Stick Victorian – Kalamazoo, MI

The Delos Chappell-Stewart home from 1880 was just awarded a 2013 Historic Preservation Merit Award for its painstaking restoration. You have not only a 5-bedroom main house but an equally elegant one-bedroom carriage house apartment for investment income. This home is a jewel of the Stuart Historic District. Its owners have shellacked the interior woodwork, have lovingly restored the gorgeous stained glass windows, and have preserved the heritage of its one-of-a-kind use of different woods for each room.

This is not just a museum of 19th century artisanship but a true working home; custom-made cherry cabinetry throughout the modern kitchen with double ovens, gas cooktop, buffet servers, and pantry (with original doors and hardware). No expense was spared in replicating the ornate wall coverings or preserving the fireplaces. No detail has been overlooked in the exterior maintenance (including all copper gutters) or the lavish grounds surrounded by a Lee Ironworks fence.