811 Mill Rd, Bryn Mawr, PA 19010

Imagine winding up the private cul-de-sac past graceful trees dotting the two acres to the stone gatehouse. Into view come orderly gardens, stone walls with arched doorways, and English Tutor structures that welcome you like a warm embrace. There is a sense of community, but the vision line from the house is private. You walk into your home and the hall’s burnished wood exudes both history and comfort. The living room, stately with a French marble fireplace, multi-paned windows, and two sets of French doors leading to the terrace, invites gatherings. The dining room is elegant and dignified, with wainscoting, crown molding, and deep windows. One can almost hear the tinkling of crystal, the laughter of family and friends. The den, wood-lined and bay windowed, is a cozy refuge. On winter nights the fire crackles. A secret room behind the bookcase, once the gatekeeper’s watch place, now serves as a bar. The kitchen, with reclaimed yellow pine from the stables, a wall of windows, and copper-edged counters, has an island with gas grill and stovetop. Ascend the staircase to the master bedroom, which has shades of restful white on white, damask walls, French doors and balcony, marble fireplace, and a window alcove perfect for quiet solitude. The airy upstairs office has inset-wood shelving and desks and a view of the estate. The bedrooms are comfortable, tasteful. The basement is a hobbyist’s dream. Once the gatehouse to the mansion of Lily Busch of Anheuser-Busch fame, it is a home with heritage and character, sophisticated and livable.