set on a quiet block in princeton’s storied western section, just at the edge of downtown, this enchanting english manor is the house everyone seems to point out as their very favorite. it has only been sold twice since originally being built in 1924 for philanthropist and mayor, charles erdman. the current owners have taken great pride in sensitively updating almost every space - from the kitchen to the bathrooms to the basement - while maintaining the original exterior charm, complete with new custom windows. due to its exceptional collection of original details, including refurbished hardware, intricate moldings and multiple french doors, the home served as the grand finale of the princeton historical society’s 2021 house tour. the main level is especially gracious with fireplaces and built-ins in both the living room (an original addition designed by rolf bauhan) and library, served by an intimate bar. the elegant dining room was created from the former garage, and architect max hayden cleverly repurposed the original carriage-style doors fitted with roebling hardware as a focal point of the heated loggia. sunlight from two sets of french doors brightens a corner banquette, a suite of viking appliances and expansive quartz-topped counter space in the kitchen, renovated 2019. one of six bedrooms, the spectacular primary suite was reconfigured to include a sitting room, a custom dressing room lined with mirrored cabinetry, a richly paneled walk-in closet and a timeless bath dressed in marble and nickel. off the main staircase, a charming bedroom features a delightful window seat and convenient access to a dedicated bath, while an additional en-suite bedroom offers a comfortable retreat, with the laundry area just around the corner. two bedrooms tucked atop the secondary staircase offer wonderful privacy - one currently serving as an office and the other as a fitness studio. don’t forget the third floor either, a spacious suite with custom storage, making an ideal out of the way retreat. the basement now offers finished space for games and media, complete with its own half bath. outside, redesigned flower beds and stone walls separate tiered lawns that incorporate a putting green and hidden hot tub. even the slate roofed garage and stone-accented mudroom are undeniably charming, fulfilling the hopeful visions of every admiring passer-by. all of this lives less than a quarter mile from nassau street with princeton university just beyond.
