Designed by noted Philadelphia architect William L. Price as one of his celebrated “Pillar Houses” for the brand-new Wayne neighborhood and completed in 1890, 118 Walnut Avenue is a remarkable example of Victorian craftsmanship and architectural detail. Intricately carved woodwork that has never been painted, Victorian tile, oak hardwood floors, etched glass windows, and countless preserved period features can be found throughout this extraordinary residence.
Created for both comfortable daily living and entertaining, this 6-bedroom, 3.5-bath home is set along a quiet, tree-lined street just blocks from the shops, restaurants, and amenities of downtown Wayne. Stone pillars mark the entrance to the driveway, which extends beneath an original covered porte cochère to the detached two-car garage. The home's impressive front porch showcases beautifully carved columns and leads to a welcoming foyer with parquet floors and a stained-glass window.
At the center of the home, a center hall features a carved staircase and built-in bench. Through a set of pocket doors, the library/den offers a corner fireplace with its original tile surround, mantel, and mirror. A hidden powder room tucked behind custom millwork and glass-front built-in cabinetry are among the room’s many distinctive details. Nearby, a spacious living room with gas fireplace and charming window seat overlooks the front gardens.
The kitchen combines historic character with thoughtful updates, featuring a leather-finished soapstone island with seating and a double sink, original built-in cabinetry with a beverage refrigerator, a sunny breakfast area, and access to the rear deck. A generously sized walk-in pantry provides additional storage options.
The formal dining room is well suited for gatherings both large and small, highlighted by original corner cabinets, a fireplace with its original mantel and mirror, and a bay of windows that fills the room with natural light.
Heading up to the second floor, the recreation room once housed the home's original pipe organ and has been transformed into an inviting space for games, hobbies, or relaxing with family and friends. The primary suite is exceptionally spacious and filled with natural light, offering a decorative fireplace with original tile, dual closet space, and access to a large bath with a soaking tub and separate walk-in shower. A laundry room with additional storage is conveniently located off the hall. Three additional bedrooms occupy this level, including a private bedroom suite with a fireplace and full bath featuring antique marble sinks.
The third floor provides two more bedrooms, a new full hall bath with a walk-in shower, and several storage areas.
Outside, the rear yard boasts mature trees and established perennial plantings surrounding a firepit seating area bordered by one of the property's original stone walls. The detached two-car garage, converted from the original carriage house, retains its historic character and includes a second level for storage complete with a Dutch barn door.
A rare opportunity to own one of Wayne’s architectural treasures, this exceptional home offers easy access to downtown Wayne, the Wayne train station, Route 476, and other major commuting routes, all within the award-winning Radnor school district.
