From lakefront tranquility to forested seclusion and Main Line grandeur, Pennsylvania’s historic mansions reflect an extraordinary range of architectural styles and landscapes. These properties—dating back as far as the 19th century—have been lovingly restored or thoughtfully updated, combining period craftsmanship with luxury amenities.
Whether it’s the stone-and-schist charm of a Norman-style retreat in Chestnut Hill or a sprawling modernist estate by Oscar Stonorov, each residence offers a unique blend of history and elegance. Here’s a closer look at four remarkable historic estates across Pennsylvania.
1. Norman-Style Chestnut Hill Home Designed by Architect George Howe
This 4,250 square foot Norman-style home in Chestnut Hill was designed by noted architect George Howe and built in 1921. The four-bedroom, five-bathroom residence sits on a 0.47-acre lot and has only had four owners in over a century, reflecting its enduring appeal and careful restoration.
Listed at $2,495,000, it features period architecture including steep roofs, multiple fireplaces, and Wissahickon schist stonework, with modern updates and scenic views over Fairmount Park.
Where is Philadelphia, PA?
Philadelphia is the largest city in Pennsylvania, located in the southeastern part of the state along the Delaware River. It played a key role in American history as the site of the signing of the Declaration of Independence and the U.S. Constitution.
The city is home to landmarks like Independence Hall, the Liberty Bell, and numerous universities and museums. Philadelphia also has a diverse food scene, major sports teams, and a strong arts and cultural presence.
Living Room
Classic seating arrangement includes a pair of armchairs, a dark upholstered settee, and two wood-framed chairs centered on a light patterned rug. Leaded glass windows bring in natural light between framed sketches on neutral-toned walls. Piano, end tables, and antique lamps frame the perimeter.
Dining Room
Oval wood table and curved-back chairs are placed over a traditional area rug with deep blue and gold accents. French doors open toward the exterior, while framed art and trim panels decorate the soft white walls. A mid-century pendant light hangs above the center of the room.
Media Room
Built-in white cabinetry surrounds the television at the heart of the media room, flanked by shelves for books and décor. Sectional sofa and armchairs sit over a soft carpet, accented with red pillows and minimalist furniture. Soft wall sconces and recessed lights provide layered illumination.
Bedroom
Upholstered bed with white bedding rests beneath three arched windows, bringing in views from the surrounding property. Fireplace with a detailed white mantel stands across from a black bench and soft area rug. Natural wood furniture and soft wall colors finish the space.
Pool Courtyard
Stone-lined swimming pool sits in a secluded garden surrounded by manicured hedges and layered greenery. Lounge chairs line one side of the stone deck beneath a canopy of mature trees. Historic stone home rises beyond the landscape with tall chimneys and steep-pitched rooflines.
Source: Ellen Hass @ Kurfiss Sotheby’S International Realty via Coldwell Banker Realty
2. Historic Lakefront Estate
Set on over 15 acres with 185 feet of lake frontage, this estate features a 7,134 square foot main home built in 1863 and a guest house from 1864. The property includes nine bedrooms, seven bathrooms, two docks, multiple restored outbuildings, a pool, and a historic barn, with no HOA and agricultural residential zoning.
Listed at $3,200,000, the estate blends 19th-century craftsmanship with modern amenities such as radiant heating, updated systems, and full furnishings included in the sale.
Where is Harveys Lake, PA?
Harveys Lake is a borough in Luzerne County, Pennsylvania, located in the northeastern part of the state near Wilkes-Barre. It surrounds Pennsylvania’s largest natural lake, also called Harveys Lake, which is a central feature for recreation and tourism. The area has a history as a summer resort and continues to attract visitors for boating, fishing, and lakefront dining. The borough is primarily residential with a focus on lake-related activities and seasonal events.
Living Room
Stone fireplace anchors the room below a mounted TV and ceiling fan, flanked by French doors leading to the patio. Leather seating, built-in bookshelves, and a large window fill the space with cozy, traditional style. Rug and accent tables frame the center of the layout.
Kitchen
White cabinetry and dual islands define the kitchen, which includes a farmhouse sink, open shelving, and a stone-clad wood stove. Vaulted wood ceilings with exposed beams and pendant lights enhance the rustic charm. Cooking space features a range, pot rack, and views out toward the patio.
Dining Room
Long wooden table seats ten beneath an ornate chandelier, positioned over a patterned area rug on wide plank floors. Framed artwork and tall windows line the walls, with soft natural light brightening the open space. Layout connects easily to nearby sitting and kitchen areas.
Pool Area and Exterior
Freeform swimming pool is surrounded by a wide patio with lounge chairs, umbrellas, and built-in basketball hoop. Covered seating and dining areas extend from the house, all facing the water beyond. Rooflines, stone details, and lakeside views create a resort-style outdoor setting.
Dock and Waterfront
Private dock extends over the lake with a covered boat slip, multiple seating areas, and separate screened structure. Watercraft are moored alongside, with views of the shoreline homes in the distance. Fencing and landscaped edges create a boundary between the dock and yard.
Source: Kyle Hickey @ Keller Williams Real Estate, Clarks Summit via Coldwell Banker Realty
3. Stone Farmhouse Transformed into Modernist Landmark
Built in 1860 and expanded in the 1940s by architect Oscar Stonorov, this 3,660 square foot home in Charlestown Township features five bedrooms and three bathrooms on 65 acres of private land. Surrounded by over 80 acres of neighboring farmland and conservation space, the property includes floor-to-ceiling windows, a Georgia marble wall, original Wharton Esherick hardware, and one of the earliest glass-on-glass corner windows in American homes.
Priced at $4,250,000, it carries a conservation easement allowing for up to two additional residences and offers farm tax status and equestrian potential within proximity to Malvern, Phoenixville, and Valley Forge.
Where is Phoenixville, PA?
Phoenixville is a borough in Chester County, Pennsylvania, located about 28 miles northwest of Philadelphia. Once an industrial town centered around the Phoenix Iron Works, it has redeveloped into a community with a mix of historic charm and modern venues. The borough hosts events like the annual Blobfest, referencing the 1958 horror film shot at the local Colonial Theatre. Phoenixville also features breweries, restaurants, and access to the Schuylkill River Trail.
Sunroom
Floor-to-ceiling windows offer panoramic views of the green hillside, filling the sunroom with daylight. One wall is finished in marble-patterned panels, with a low shelf running above a modern fireplace. Simple furnishings include a white sectional, patterned rug, and wood coffee table.
Dining Area
Stone walls and terra cotta tile flooring set the tone in the dining area, with a large wooden table positioned beside a wall of glass. A vintage upright piano sits between framed artwork and a neutral door. Views of a rustic barn and surrounding garden stretch beyond the windows.
Library
Bookshelves cover two full walls of the library, packed with volumes and surrounding a pair of windows. In the center, a loveseat and armchairs sit around a small coffee table on a floral rug. Fireplace with a wooden mantel and art above anchors the space across from a glass-front cabinet.
Aerial View
Secluded home is tucked within a clearing in dense forest, with open lawn stretching out to one side. Tree canopy covers much of the property, offering privacy from nearby roads and neighborhoods. The house and a few small outbuildings are barely visible from the air through the trees.
Source: Alec Kearns @ Kearns Realty Group LLC. Via Coldwell Banker Realty
4. Tudor Revival Estate
Behind the gates of a private Gladwyne lane, this 9,065 square foot Tudor Revival estate reimagines historic grandeur with modern precision across 2.8 landscaped acres. Built between 1895 and 1905, the six-bedroom, eight-bathroom main residence is joined by a fully renovated two-bedroom carriage house and features 25-foot beamed ceilings, leaded glass windows, and extensive updates including an Italian marble primary bath and gourmet kitchen.
Listed at $6,575,000, the property lies in the Lower Merion School District and includes multiple terraces, formal gardens, an outdoor kitchen, and a gym that once housed an indoor lap pool.
Where is Gladwyne, PA?
Gladwyne is a suburban community in Lower Merion Township, Montgomery County, Pennsylvania, located along the Main Line west of Philadelphia. It is known for its preserved open spaces, large residential properties, and historic estates. The area includes landmarks like the Philadelphia Country Club and Rolling Hill Park. Gladwyne maintains a village-style center with local shops and institutions, including a library and volunteer fire company.
Grand Hall
Vaulted wood-beam ceilings rise above a large central space with mixed seating areas and a small game table near the foreground. Arched French doors with diamond-pane glass flank one side, while a built-in wood library and fireplace are set beneath a lofted balcony. Light upholstery and hardwood floors contrast the dark timber structure throughout the room.
Dining Room
Stone arches frame the perimeter of the dining room, which is anchored by a long wooden table and slipcovered chairs. A gold chandelier hangs from dark ceiling beams above, centered over a patterned runner. A large, arched wooden door becomes the focal point on the back wall, blending into the stone masonry.
Kitchen
The kitchen blends cathedral-like cabinetry with rich dark woodwork, featuring decorative arches, corbels, and rope molding. A double island with a red-toned stone top sits beneath a wrought-iron chandelier, while the backsplash showcases a repeated tile pattern in neutral tones. High ceilings with dark beams elevate the space further.
Bedroom
Exposed rafters and high ceilings define the primary bedroom, where carved wood elements surround the space, including the bed canopy, armoire, and architectural trim. A seating area with antique lamps and traditional rugs sits opposite the bed near large mullioned windows. Ornate decor and layers of texture are visible throughout.
Outdoor Patio
Stone pavers form the base of the outdoor living area, where white-cushioned seating and carved stone tables are arranged around a central conversation area. Trimmed hedges and mature trees form a border to the open lawn, with spring foliage adding color in the distance. The stone facade of the home frames the edge of the scene.
Source: Karen Strid @ Bhhs Fox & Roach-Rosemont via Coldwell Banker Realty
