Authentic Colonial Home 1/2 Block From The Jardin

One day, when this property has been sold, the couple who has owned it for 39 wonderful years will begin packing away their belongings - the photos, the art, the mementos.   They'll take a long stroll down memory lane, and then they'll shut the front door behind them for the last time.  What they can't take with them, however, is the colonial spirit and sense of gracious hospitality that this home embodies.  Just steps from the Jardin, it's truly an original San Miguel treasure.

The main house lies back from the street, and benefits from the thick exterior stone walls that surround it.  These walls, almost completely covered with vines, together with the mature trees and vegetation act as a buffer; the result is a serene, oasis-like experience both indoors and out.

As is common among older colonial homes, the various areas are situated around one or more central courtyards and, in this case, connected via a solarium. The living room of the main house features a charming fireplace, open wood beam ceilings and two arched windows which look out onto one of the patios.  Built-in shelves and a concha (shell shaped) nicho provide additional room for books and decorations. The high ceilings and double wood doors which lead to the solarium passage provide an airy feeling to this lovely living area, as does the easy flow to the kitchen.

Old world charm is really what this kitchen is all about, with its wood cabinets and accents, and the famous talavera type tiles seen all over San Miguel.   There are two pantries, which provide plenty of storage,  and a spacious area for a farm table, the perfect spot for casual meals.

Just across the passageway is the master suite, which boasts more high ceilings, a fireplace with sitting area and walk-in closet.  The bathroom is home to a large heated jacuzzi finished in sea green tiles;  an upper window overlooking the vined walls,  cleverly placed mirrors  and additional greenery create a spa like effect.

Attached to the master is a small room currently purposed as a guest bedroom.  It could also serve nicely as a nursery, office or dressing room.  It too features doors which open out to the first main patio.  This patio highlights the blooms and lush greenery found throughout; it gets wonderful morning sun and includes a traditionally styled fountain, and would be an ideal spot for an intimate cocktail party.

Pass through this first patio and you'll arrive at the second patio and pool. Whether you're enjoying your morning coffee under the shade or hosting an afternoon swim, you'll appreciate the tranquility this area provides.  In addition, there's a large built-in birdcage nicho, should you care to be serenaded with birdsong as you relax.

Returning back through the passage you'll find the family room, which could also serve as a dining room and / or a t.v. room, as well as a third, en suite bedroom.  All of the rooms thus far are on the ground floor, so if you prefer, you could situate yourself here, in the main house, and live comfortably on one level.   What's more, it's so calm and quiet that you'll forget you're just steps from the Jardin, as well as within one block of a grocery store, numerous restaurants, a pharmacy, bakery, and many other specialty shops.

Two other areas of this property provide additional options.  The first is a casita, just to the left of the entryway.  The living room features a fireplace, high, open wood beamed ceilings and a large window facing the street. The breakfast area is adjacent to the fully functional kitchen with cantera accented window, and to the rear of the casita is a cozy sitting area.  Upstairs is a bedroom with built-ins and bathroom with multiple tragaluces (glass brick) to bring in additional light.  The casita even has its own private rooftop terrace and laundry area, making it a completely independent, full service unit.  It could serve as a guest house or source of rental income as a casita or a very well positioned commercial space.

The second option, just to the right of the entryway as you come in, is a loft apartment.  Downstairs includes a good sized living area with fireplace, breakfast area and full kitchen, with additional storage under the stairway and multiple windows that bring in lots of light.  Upstairs is the bedroom, adjoining bath, more storage, and another private rooftop terrace and laundry area.  Similarly, this unit would work well for private living or as a commercial rental.

A final bonus literally tops it all off.  An artist's perch is located on the upper level and provides sweeping views of the city.  From here, you can climb up yet another level for even more panoramic views.

It's well worth mentioning that a property this close to the Jardin that provides both residential living and commercial opportunies is rare indeed.  In terms of location, you can't get more historic than this.  And while  saying goodbye will no doubt be a bittersweet moment for the current owners, remember that that same gracious, colonial spirit which welcomed them so many years ago will welcome you, too.