When it comes to real estate, the word “original” is music to many buyers’ ears — except when it comes to kitchens, baths, and roofs. The Kessler Park home at 1115 S. Canterbury Ct., then, is the perfect find for prospective homeowners who want historical charm mixed with modern amenities.
Built in 1936 by natives of Martha’s Vineyard, the 2,663-square-foot four-bed, two-bath home was designed to reflect the predominant style of the tony New England island. The property has been sold just twice in 80 years — and both times, neighbor to neighbor or friend to friend. So, this marks the first time in its history that the property has been available on the open market.
The home is a blend of original details and up-to-date additions, explains listing agent Kay Wood of Briggs Freeman Sotheby’s International Realty.
“The whole house combines a nod to traditional Cape Cod architecture, with art deco millwork and detailing that would have been cutting-edge, ‘modern’ style at the time. The subsequent owners have maintained that pattern of combining traditional styling with cutting-edge details,” she says.
“Many of the updates have been done in period style, to preserve the original feel, but it's rare to find a home that still has so much of the original detailing.”
In addition to the intricate millwork, other original features include hardwood floors throughout and a hand-painted mural in the dining room depicting coastal scenes from Martha’s Vineyard. Intricate crown molding, detailing around doorframes, beautiful built-ins in the family and dining rooms, and unique railings along the stairs and balcony add to the home’s throwback charm.
On the main floor, the formal living features an original fireplace and plenty of natural light. A family room provides access to the attached two-car garage and spacious backyard, where you’ll find a koi pond, studio, and several seating areas.
A downstairs bedroom could be used as a master or a guest suite, with access to an ensuite bath that’s been gorgeously updated with a steam shower and a pleasing gray-and-white palette. The kitchen is similarly modernized, with quartz counters, soft-close drawers, a stainless-steel farm sink, and a Bertazzoni range. Off the kitchen, the current owners added a large laundry room.
Upstairs, the three remaining bedrooms are generously sized (there’s even a cozy fireplace in one) and share a bathroom, to which the current owners have made careful, period-sensitive updates. The second-floor balcony is accessible through the hall. And the home’s next owners will sleep easy under the recently replaced roof.
Located in the heart of the desirable Kessler Park neighborhood, this charming home is listed for $725,000.
Hand-painted murals in the dining room depict scenes of Martha's Vineyard and are just one of many lovingly preserved details that are original to the home.
