When I think of Fells Point, I think of my 20s, when my friends and I would barhop, go to the Fells Point Festival, and enjoy day drinking with a view. That was a long time ago, but Fells Point is still a destination for fine restaurants, shopping and nightlife – the question is, what would it be like to live there? How's the parking? Will I be kept up all night by noisy pedestrians?
261 South Ann Street is an ideal location in a shady block of Upper Fells Point. Parking is more abundant here than in other areas, with one side of the street providing slanted back-in parking – but with a walk score of 97 and good access to mass transit, you may not even need your car. New bike lanes throughout Baltimore give this neighborhood a bike score of 80.
Far enough from the party atmosphere of central Fells Point to be pretty quiet, but close enough to walk to bars, coffee shops and restaurants, it would be the perfect urban downsize for an empty-nester. With a prime location, it is also a very convenient commute for young professionals working in Fells Point, downtown or in Canton.
So, I like Fells Point, the street is great – what about the house? I give it a resounding thumbs up! Fully renovated, with central air conditioning, a glorious kitchen, wonderful master bath and finished lower level, the thoughtful renovations provide all the desired upgrades and conveniences while leaving all the character intact. The home has high ceilings, random width wood floors throughout, exposed brick and an incredible original open staircase spiraling up against a curved wall. (I’m told this is an architecturally significant feature.)
Because this is an end-of-group, the home is filled with natural light from large windows with deep windowsills. The feeling is one of compact spaciousness. The living room flows seamlessly past the staircase through the dining room to the kitchen.
There are two spacious bedrooms on the second level, both of which have exposed brick walls, full bath off the master, and a second full bath in the hallway. The lower level with natural light from two street-level windows and a full bath holds the potential for a third bedroom
With a distant view of the Baltimore skyline, evening drinks on the rooftop deck are a must
So, would I live in this house? You bet!
If you are looking for a move-in ready location in the city, and are charmed by the grace of older homes, this could be your perfect solution.