317 12th Street

This exceptionally charming 5 bedroom, 2.5 bath home is located on a quiet, tree-lined block in the heart of the South Slope. The house was built in 1871 by a newly arrived Welsh immigrant, Edwin Squance, who built several houses on the block, and others in the neighborhood. Although currently configured as a generous single family, it is a legal two-family and can be reconfigured to have a rental unit if you so choose.Comprised of three stories plus a wonderful attic, this house is deceptively large and has plenty of original detail, including four marble fireplace mantels, extensive tin ceilings, and parquet floors. The ground floor has a living room and a huge and inviting eat-in kitchen facing out onto the back garden. There is also a pantry/ laundry room, a mud room, and a half bath. The parlor floor has a full bathroom and two large, sun-filled rooms, currently used as a second living room and a study, but which could be used as a master bedroom with an en-suite bath, and another bedroom. The third floor has two bright bedrooms, an office/nursery and another full bath. The fourth floor attic space is simply gorgeous and utterly charming. Use it as a spacious bedroom, studio or playroom.The lush garden is home to many flowering and edible plants: Lilac bushes, flowering shrubs, and plenty of herbs abound. Eat the raspberries just as you pick them or save them for a summer tart. In need of a tranquil refuge from the bustle of the city? The rustic cabana at the back of the yard is the perfect little getaway space; its almost like being in the country.317 is close to the F, G and R trains, and is zoned for landmarked PS 39. It is wonderfully situated, with access to all of the South Slopes restaurants, boutiques, and amenities on 7th and 5th avenues. It's a stone's throw from Gowanus, and a short walk to Prospect Park.