Welcome to 38 Summit, one of the most spectacular properties in Chestnut Hill. Originally built
in 1857 as a Victorian, this house was completely transformed into a Colonial Revival dwelling
by the famous architect Broknard Oakie in 1919. The spectacular attention to detail from this
period includes custom millwork, random width floors, iron hardware, multiple fireplaces, high
ceilings and French doors throughout. The property is sited on two acres on historic Summit
Street, one of the highest points in Philadelphia, with the main house set back from the street by
a sweeping front lawn and a separate carriage house behind. The current owners have
meticulously maintained and improved the property to the fine standards to which it deserves.
One enters the main home through double doors with transom windows and a stone floor to a
lovely entrance hall that is accessed by all adjacent rooms. Filled with light, this large hall makes
for a wonderful welcome and allows for comfortable entertaining throughout the first floor. The
entrance hall is flanked to the left by a cozy den perfect for an office and to the right by the living
room with large fireplace, floor to ceiling bookcases and three sets of French doors that lead to
both a back flagstone patio and a side covered porch. The dining room with fireplace and three
sets of additional French doors, and coat room and powder room under the grand staircase
complete the formal living space.
The wing to the left of the entrance hall and dining room includes a magnificent chef’s kitchen,
breakfast room and bar area that opens to a comfortable family room, powder room and mud
room. The kitchen includes custom cabinetry, thick honed marble counters, professional
appliances including a Wolf 6 burner range and Sub-Zero refrigerator, farmhouse sink, large
center island with seating for five and a glass wall of windows and French doors that open to
the back flagstone patio. The breakfast room includes a seating area with built in seating and
storage, pantry area and a bar area with wine refrigerator. The kitchen opens to the family room
and back mud room with built in desk, hearth and stone floor.
The second floor is accessed by the wide staircase in the main entrance hall with hall landing.
The primary bedroom suite includes a large bedroom with fireplace and sitting area, two walk-in
closets and a main bathroom with two vanity sinks, walk in shower and separate jacuzzi tub.
This floor also includes a second and third bedroom both with adjoining baths, laundry room,
hall bath and two more rooms that could be used as offices or bedrooms. The third floor
includes two additional bedrooms and a hall bath with original marble sink. There is tremendous
storage and closet space throughout.
The charming two story carriage house includes three bedrooms, updated kitchen and full bath,
dining room and large living room with a private flagstone patio. The carriage house includes a
two bay heated garage and there is a separate custom built shed with workbench and separate garbage compartment.
The private grounds include many mature trees and plantings and multiple patios and covered porches to enjoy the property. All this is just a short walk to the many shops and restaurants in Chestnut Hill, the
trails of Fairmount Park and regional rail service for an easy commute to Center City.