Contemporary

Stunning for its extraordinary 36-foot width and outstanding natural light, this Marvin Verman-designed townhouse is the definition of open, gracious living space. Verman, a student of Louis Kahn, created this residence in 1979 on a picturesque half street hidden from the hubbub of the city. Lined in cherry trees that put on a show each spring, this home s setting provides beautiful views and is convenient to Philadelphia s top arts venues, restaurants and shopping. The home s brick construction and fa ade fit squarely with the block s more traditional homes, but step inside and the serene spaces created by interior designer Michael Murtha elevate your living experience like no antique home can. At only two stories high, this property is wide and deep with 2,520 square feet, two Juliette balconies and a walled, 36-foot-wide garden space at the rear of the house. Picture windows, casement and clerestory windows along with 10-foot ceilings create light-filled spaces. Vast expanses of wall space await your art collection. Entertain with ease the living, dining and kitchen areas accommodate a crowd and the poured terrazzo flooring holds up to the heaviest of foot traffic. Top-grade materials are used throughout this home. The timeless kitchen is outfitted with stainless steel Thermador, Sub-Zero, Miele and Bosch appliances and dual sinks with views down scenic Sartain Street. Custom lighting, metal work, cabinetry and wood paneling add quality and warmth throughout. Both the living and dining areas have views of the rear garden via picture windows, and the step-down living room is warmed up with wood wall panels and a gas fireplace with slate surround. An office and powder room complete the first floor. Private quarters are on the second floor. With vaulted or angled ceilings and clerestory windows, the play of light in the rooms is delightful. The main bedroom suite is as spacious as that of a suburban home with roomy sleeping quarters with sitting area; a bath featuring dual vanities, an oversized walk-through shower with body sprays and bench, and a separate toilet room; and a well-designed walk-in closet with a variety of built-ins, capped off by a laundry area with full-sized washer, dryer and utility sink. Across a wide central hall are two guest bedrooms, each with a Juliette balcony, and a shared bath offering a jetted tub with rainfall showerhead and regular showerhead. There are so many delights and surprises built into this home by the architect and interior designer. To appreciate these features along with its calm energy and natural light requires an in-person visit. Schedule your tour of 1108 Manning Street today.