This stunning historic estate, set in the coveted South of Grand neighborhood of Des Moines, Iowa, epitomizes classic 20th-century architecture, likely of Georgian Revival style, with its symmetrical brick façade and dormer windows. Built as a century home and meticulously renovated, it offers over 7,000 square feet on a private, densely wooded 2+ acre plot. The home features six bedrooms, seven baths, six fireplaces, two master suites, a walnut-paneled library, a gourmet kitchen with Wolf range, a wine cellar, and a detached pool house. Recent upgrades include modern HVAC, partial slate roofing, security enhancements, and extensive landscape improvements. Listed for $2,900,000, the property is a turn-key luxury retreat blending historic elegance and contemporary updates mere minutes from downtown Des Moines.
Front Entryway
A red brick pillar with the house number ‘3545’ stands at the entrance of the property, topped with a traditional black lantern. Lush landscaping surrounds the gateway, including leafy shrubs, blooming yellow and pink flowers, and thick green foliage. Mature trees with wide, arching branches frame the path and cast dappled shadows across the scene. In the background, the front of a classic brick home peeks through the greenery, with large white-framed windows and a beautifully manicured lawn sloping gently up towards the house. The look is stately, welcoming, and well-tended, emphasizing historic elegance and natural beauty.
Front Porch Entry
A stately entryway features a prominent white portico with Classical-style columns supporting a decorative entablature. The brick exterior is deep red with black shutters framing tall, paned windows on the left. A stone walkway leads to the porch, which is bordered by lush landscaping filled with hydrangea bushes bursting with blooms in shades of pink and green. Neatly edged flower beds with mulch and manicured grass complete the refined look. Tall trees in the background create a leafy, inviting atmosphere, casting filtered light and offering a sense of seclusion and historic charm.
Front Entryway
A grand front door entryway features a classic black paneled door framed by crisp white columns and ornate molding. The red brick façade is complemented by white trim and a semicircular arch above the door, with a gold-toned door handle adding a touch of warmth. Symmetrically placed windows on either side are accented with black shutters. Two topiary plants in black urns and small black dog statues flank the entrance, while a lantern-style light fixture hangs overhead, casting a warm glow. The brick walkway enhances the historic and elegant appeal of this sophisticated entry.
Aerial View and Pool
A historic brick mansion with a steeply pitched slate roof is surrounded by lush greenery and mature trees, indicating a private and secluded estate. The backyard features a large kidney-shaped swimming pool bordered by terracotta-colored tiles, accompanied by a pool house with white walls and arched windows. A spacious patio area surrounds the pool, providing room for outdoor seating and entertaining. At the front, a striking circular driveway with a sunburst brick pattern leads to the main entrance, framed by manicured shrubs and flower beds. The overall design highlights classic American architecture and elegant landscape planning.
Backyard Overview
An aerial view captures a large, historic red-brick house with a gray slate roof set amid dense green foliage, offering a secluded and private feel. Behind the home, a spacious circular swimming pool stands out, surrounded by an expansive patio and lounge seating. Outbuildings are placed near the pool, potentially for guest or pool-house use. There is a sweeping driveway out front, likely leading to a multi-car garage. Mature trees border the property, enhancing privacy and tranquility. The overall ambiance is classic and serene, with a blend of formal landscaping and natural wooded surroundings.
Backyard Fire Pit
A spacious backyard features a circular fire pit area bordered with dark mulch and light stone gravel, surrounded by wooden Adirondack chairs and rustic log benches for seating. The fire pit itself is made of bricks, providing a central gathering spot. The area is partially shaded by mature trees, offering a blend of dappled sunlight and cool shade. The expansive green lawn leads up to a large historic brick house with steep gabled roofs and dormer windows, accented by white trim. Tall shrubs and landscaped gardens blend the formal elegance of the house with the relaxed, inviting outdoor space.
Pool Patio Area
A large, kidney-shaped swimming pool serves as the focal point in this spacious backyard patio, surrounded by broad concrete tiling with terracotta-red accents tracing the pool’s border. Strategically arranged lounge chairs and a black-and-white striped umbrella create comfortable spots for sunbathing and relaxing. To one side, a white pergola structure is furnished for outdoor dining, while a charcoal-colored deck offers an elevated seating area. Mature trees frame the pool area and provide shade, contrasting with the manicured lawn and neatly trimmed shrubs. The overall layout balances open recreational space with defined entertaining zones, blending luxury with casual elegance.
Backyard Pool Area
A spacious outdoor pool area sits behind a historic brick house, featuring a large curved swimming pool surrounded by a red accent border and light concrete paving with brick trim inlays. The pool is complemented by a modern diving board and a poolside basketball hoop for recreation. To one side, black-and-white striped umbrellas shade an outdoor dining area with a metal table and chairs. Tall windows with black shutters line the rear facade of the house. A hot tub, grill, and sleek vent canopy add functionality. Mature trees and manicured landscaping frame the airy, inviting space, suggesting classic yet updated outdoor luxury.
Backyard Deck
A spacious wooden deck surrounded by a sleek black metal railing, positioned above a lush, leafy landscape. The deck is furnished with modern wicker furniture, including a large sofa and two armchairs featuring deep blue cushions and striped accent pillows. The seating is arranged around a low central table, inviting conversation and relaxation. Sunlight filters through the surrounding trees, casting dappled patterns across the deck, creating a serene outdoor living space that blends contemporary comfort with the tranquility of nature. The overall aesthetic is cozy, open, and perfect for enjoying peaceful views and fresh air.
Garden Gazebo
A charming wooden gazebo sits on a raised platform with three stained steps leading up to its open entry. The gazebo features white railings, classic round columns, and a wide, green shingled roof. Beneath the roof is a seating area with a black metal table and matching chairs. Surrounding the structure are lush green plants, mature trees, and neatly mulched landscaping. In the background, a vivid red barn with white trim adds a delightful accent, while a simple stone pathway guides visitors through the picturesque garden. The ambiance is shaded, serene, and welcoming, ideal for outdoor relaxation.
Kitchen and Dining
Expansive kitchen with a grand central island topped with white marble and dark cabinetry below. The kitchen features soft taupe cabinets along the walls, a professional stainless stove, and a subtle herringbone tile backsplash. Ornate crystal chandeliers hang from a stunning coffered ceiling, adding elegance and sparkle. The floor is white marble with grey veining, complemented by a muted area rug. Large windows flood the adjacent dining area with natural light, where a long table surrounded by elegant chairs offers views of the garden. French doors and detailed wall paneling enhance the space’s refined, airy atmosphere.
Dining Room Windows
Bright and airy dining room with large, grid-paned windows on three sides, allowing abundant natural light and offering views of the garden and pool area. A rectangular dark wood dining table is surrounded by ten cushioned chairs with light wooden frames. A crystal chandelier hangs above the table, adding elegance and reflecting light across the room. White paneled walls and trim, crown molding, and a white painted brick accent wall create a classic ambiance. The soft color palette is accented by a floral artwork and a centerpiece of yellow flowers, complemented by a neutral area rug underfoot.
Attic Lounge Area
Spacious attic lounge designed with a contemporary, eclectic charm. The dark polished hardwood floors contrast beautifully with the soft white walls and ceiling, creating an airy yet dramatic effect. A deep pink velvet sectional sofa sits atop a fluffy white rug, forming a cozy seating area oriented towards a fireplace and mounted television on a feature wall clad in white stacked stone. Adjacent to this, a small round table with emerald green velvet chairs provides a stylish spot for games or dining. Architectural details include crisp molding, arched doorways, and built-in shelving, blending character and comfort.
Bedroom Sitting Area
A spacious bedroom features a modern four-poster bed with white linens and a blush throw, complemented by a woven bench at the foot. The floors are a deep, glossy wood, contrasted by a large, plush white area rug with a subtle geometric pattern. To one side, two sleek chairs with light woven seats and backs sit across from a slim black coffee table topped with candles and decorative accents. A bay window alcove provides natural light and a cozy nook, while soft taupe and white paneled walls add architectural interest. Minimal wall art and a ceiling fan enhance the airy, contemporary feel.
Bathroom Vanity Area
A spacious bathroom featuring white marble walls and flooring, creating a luxurious and bright atmosphere. On one side, a classic clawfoot bathtub with silver fixtures sits atop the marble, complemented by a large, textured area rug with zebra-like patterns. The black double-sink vanity adds dramatic contrast, flanked by two gold-framed mirrors above. To the right, a small workspace with a sleek black writing desk and a deep green velvet chair nestles against the wall, accented with a decorative gold sculpture and a modern black lamp. Natural light streams in from a window near the toilet nook, enhancing the room’s airy, elegant feel.
Bathroom Vanity Area
A luxurious bathroom space features a blend of modern and classic aesthetics, with bright white marble walls and floors creating a luminous, expansive feel. The room is anchored by a large glass walk-in shower equipped with dual shower heads and a rainfall option overhead. On one side, a black vanity with gold accents is paired with a plush green velvet chair, highlighted by an ornate gold-framed mirror and a sleek black wall sconce. Metallic elements continue with a three-tiered brass towel cart, and a zebra-patterned rug adds texture, while recessed lighting ensures excellent illumination throughout the space.
Wet Bar Nook
A small, cozy bar area is recessed under a sloped ceiling with smooth white walls, illuminated by four built-in ceiling lights. The black countertop, with sleek gold handles on cabinets and drawers, enhances the contemporary feel. A simple chrome faucet is paired with a small rectangular sink. On the counter rests a glass tray and a modern espresso machine beside a compact glass-front beverage fridge. An open wood shelf above holds an array of pastel and jewel-toned glassware alongside a trailing plant. Below, the floor features a carpet with navy background and bright, multicolored floral patterns, bringing warmth and vibrancy to the space.
Dining Room Decor
A formal dining room is entered through large wooden double doors. The space features deep navy blue paneled walls that add a sense of sophistication and depth. Large windows across the back wall allow natural light to stream into the room, and floral patterned drapes frame the windows. An elongated wooden dining table sits at the center, surrounded by modern upholstered chairs, with a patterned fabric on the two end chairs. Overhead hangs an ornate chandelier with globe lights. Elegant details like a crisp white sideboard, a table lamp, and decorative vases add to the room’s traditional yet updated décor. A piano sits off to the side, introducing a musical touch.
Living Room Details
Spacious living room combining classic and contemporary design, featuring creamy beige walls with elegant white trim and wainscoting. Large multi-pane windows flood the room with natural light and draw attention to the picturesque garden outside. The main seating area incorporates plush cream sofas and accent chairs, all with patterned accent pillows. A dark square coffee table anchors the arrangement, set atop patterned area rugs with soft, muted tones. Built-in bookshelves line one wall displaying art and baskets, while a small black dresser with table lamps provides gentle lighting. Open sight lines connect to a cozy eating nook and a formal dining space.
Library Sitting Area
A cozy sitting area featuring rich, glossy wood-paneled walls and intricate moldings sets a warm, traditional tone. The centerpiece is a large window dressed in deep blue velvet curtains, allowing filtered natural light into the room. A grand chandelier adds elegance overhead. A gray upholstered sofa faces a mid-century wooden coffee table, while an amber leather armchair sits beside an ornate fireplace with a marble hearth. The room’s vibrant red patterned rug provides contrast and a sense of warmth. Artwork, decorative pottery, and dark wall sconces with golden touches enhance the historic, refined ambiance of this intimate space.
Hallway Entrance
A transitional hallway features an eclectic yet classic style, with striking green wallpaper patterned with playful white zebras and arrows above crisp white wainscoting. The floor is finished in a polished white marble with a bold black border. Double white paneled doors lead into adjacent rooms, with the doorway trim and crown molding painted to match. A gold chandelier with crystal accents hangs from the ceiling, lending a touch of elegance. A narrow bench with wooden legs sits beneath a gilded octagonal mirror and brass lamp, alongside decorative candlesticks and a ceramic umbrella stand, creating a welcoming, stylish entry point.
Bedroom Fireplace
A serene bedroom features a central chandelier with sparkling crystals, casting warm light over the soft white walls and ceiling. The focal point is a dark-accented wall with a white wood-framed fireplace, topped by a large flat-screen TV. Two deep green velvet armchairs with patterned pillows sit in front of the fireplace, inviting relaxation. Gold sconces flank the TV, contributing to the elegant atmosphere. Heavy drapes with green floral patterns frame two windows, adding softness and privacy. Light wood floors and a pale area rug enhance the room’s airy feel, while paneled doors and classic moldings reflect historic charm.
Sunroom Lounge and Bar
An open, airy space combines a lounge and a bar area with a glass rack hanging above the bar counter. The room is filled with natural light streaming through large arched windows and French doors, offering a lush green garden view. The ceiling features exposed white-painted beams with ceiling fans and paddle-style blades, adding a breezy, coastal feel. The lounge boasts floral-patterned sofas, a low wooden coffee table, and cozy poufs atop a neutral area rug. Potted plants, wall art, brass light fixtures, and natural materials like wicker chairs and wood accents give the space a warm, inviting cottage atmosphere.
Powder Room Detail
A compact but elegant powder room featuring rich, emerald-green paneled walls that create a sense of depth and luxury. The ceiling boasts a matching green hue, enhanced by a sparkling crystal chandelier that adds a touch of glamour. A crisp white pedestal sink with polished chrome fixtures sits beneath a framed, beveled mirror. The black and white geometric tile floor echoes the fireplace’s ornate tile surround, tying the space together. Modern touches, such as framed art, wall sconces with glass crystals, and a window letting in natural light, combine with classic architectural details for a sophisticated, timeless aesthetic.
Bedroom Details
A spacious bedroom with warm, pale yellow walls and three large windows that fill the space with natural light. The room features a queen-size bed adorned with pastel and patterned pillows and bedding, next to a nightstand with a gold horse lamp. Hardwood floors are mostly covered by a large, vibrant rug splashed with pinks, blues, and greens. Along the walls, white radiators sit beneath the windows, and there are bookshelves full of books and decorative items. Soft abstract artwork, a glass-front display cabinet, and a modern ceiling fan add to the room’s cozy yet playful aesthetic.
Nursery Details
A spacious nursery features soft cream walls and a pale wooden floor covered by a large, muted floral area rug. A white crib sits in the foreground, draped with a pastel, crocheted blanket. To the left, a ladder-style shelf holds plush toys and framed photos. Cute animal prints hang above a small laundry hamper, adding a playful touch. Opposite the entrance, a long white dresser with sleek black handles doubles as a changing table, topped with a padded mat. Recessed lights and a modern ceiling fan with wide blades provide bright, even illumination. The room feels cozy, clean, and calming.
Upstairs Hallway
The hallway features warm, honey-toned hardwood floors that contrast gently with cream-colored walls accented by elegant, raised molding. A classic wooden handrail with white spindles borders the staircase on the right. At the far end, a black console table holds decorative objects beneath a large, framed portrait of a woman with flowers in her hair, adding an artistic touch. Twin wall sconces flank the art, providing soft light that complements a sparkling chandelier overhead. Multiple doorways lead off the corridor, and the overall atmosphere feels both timeless and refined, blending traditional architectural details with simple, sophisticated décor.
Primary Bedroom
A spacious bedroom featuring a king-sized bed with crisp white bedding positioned against a wall with elegant blue and white paneling. The room has polished light wood flooring and a rectangular area rug displaying bold blue and white stripes. A sleek, contemporary ceiling fan hangs from the white recessed ceiling. A wooden chest of drawers stands near the entrance to an ensuite bathroom, where white marble and classic fixtures are visible. Soft, warm lighting is provided by a bedside lamp on a low table. The room’s palette mixes navy blue, bright white, and honey-toned wood, creating a fresh, inviting atmosphere with a touch of traditional elegance.
Bathroom Luxury
A spacious bathroom featuring abundant dark green marble on the floors, tub surround, and countertops, imparting a rich, dramatic look. Warm wood cabinetry and paneling give the space a classic and inviting feel, accented by gold hardware and light fixtures. Twin vanities with under-mount sinks run along the left wall, while a large soaking tub sits beneath windows on the right. The glass-enclosed shower includes gold trim, and recessed ceiling lighting adds brightness. Refined touches such as embroidered towels and a white orchid arrangement on the countertop add sophistication to this sumptuous, historic-inspired bathroom setting.
Listing Agent: DIANE TODD BROWN of Iowa Realty Mills Crossing via Zillow