Listed by Long & Foster Ramblers Anonymous? Are you addicted to ramblers? Does your heart start to race at the thought of the 1950/60s one-level abodes that defined the post-World War II baby boom? What is it about these comfy, homey, horizontal spaces that beckon to some (and repel others)? In the Midwest --birthplace of the McLean Secret Agent -- we called them "ranch" homes, but whatever their moniker, the rambler at 1605 Longfellow (a hop-skip-and-a-jump from Balducci's) is worth a serious look.
Sited above the streetscape with its gracious setback, the house speaks of a quiet, old-fashioned charm. A pleasant hallway puts us right in the middle of the many public living spaces. On your left is the formal dining room, straight ahead is a not-so-great family room that is made wonderful by its adjoining sunroom; exit the sunroom to your left and you're in a quirky, rectangular kitchen with Lyndon Johnson-era accoutrements....
But wait....
Hold on to your hat....
Holy garden, Batman!
Off of the kitchen, and beyond the solarium is arguably (or inarguably) the most beautiful garden under $1 million on the market in McLean today. Meandering paths punctuated by terraced flowerbeds are staggered on what appears to be a private hill town. On a lower level your eye falls on a separate little house (think: artist’s studio). A giant brick barbecue station, birdhouses (and baths).... Do I gush?
Back inside the residence, I find my way to the handsome living room, anchored by molding, a built-in bookcase corner and a fireplace. (Hardwood floors throughout the main level are worthy of restoring.)
Down the hall from the living room is the bedroom wing with three bedrooms and two full baths. (Alas, if only the real estate gods had given us a fourth bedroom!) The baths need updating, but at the right price, any client of mine would be fine with that.
We descend to the paneled "recreation" room where you can almost hear strains of Chubby Checker (all-of-a-sudden I'm dying for a daiquiri).
What's your favorite front elevation: colonial, contemporary, rambler? I'd love to hear your thoughts on design. At the time of this post, it's been on the market about three months.
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