Picturesque 1863 Gothic Victorian cottage in historic Penn-Knox has been lovingly updated while preserving its original character and architectural details. Just steps from Germantown Avenue, where church steeples, lush gardens, and centuries-old landmarks tell the story of Philadelphia's past, this special home provides a beautiful connection to the neighborhood's history and its vibrant present.

A wooden privacy fence opens to a secret garden with a brick walkway, a majestic tree, mature plantings, and a relaxing seating area beneath an overhead arbor. A sweet front porch with a trellis adds to the home's storybook appeal. Inside, you'll find beautiful hardwood floors, moldings and window trim, wooden doors, distinctive light fixtures, and abundant natural light. The living room is warm and inviting, while the formal dining room opens to a stunning kitchen featuring underlit open shelving, sleek subway tile, generous lower cabinetry, a butcher-block island, cork flooring, stainless steel appliances, and an over-the-stove hood. Off the kitchen, the mudroom provides excellent everyday functionality with a washer and dryer, additional cabinetry, and a dedicated nook for coats. A quaint powder room features wainscoting and Florentine glass doors, with the backyard just beyond. The staircase to the second floor is a standout, with an ornate banister and curved wooden handrail. Upstairs you'll find two spacious, light-filled bedrooms, a hall closet, and a generously sized full bathroom with a clawfoot tub, grand pedestal sink, and tile flooring. The third floor provides a bird's-eye view of the trees that line the block, with painted floors, built-in storage, charming windows, and a skylight. The full basement has been recently parged and is great for additional storage or projects, with Bilco doors for outside access.

The home sits within a neighborhood rich in Philadelphia history. On the corner, Christopher Sauer's print shop once produced the first Bible printed in the American colonies. Today, Germantown Avenue hums with fresh energy, with independent shops, restaurants, and gathering places woven throughout the community. Walk to Howell Park or the Penn & Greene Community Garden. A selection of public, private, and charter schools are within walking distance, while Jefferson, Drexel University College of Medicine, La Salle University, and Chestnut Hill College are all just minutes away. The revitalized Wayne Junction is home to Attic Brewing, Merzbacher's Bakery, and Deke's Barbecue, while nearby Wissahickon Park offers 57 miles of wooded trails and a welcome escape into nature. Center City is approximately 20 minutes by train or car, and the Route 23 bus stop on the corner provides easy access to Chestnut Hill and downtown. With its blend of historic charm, thoughtful updates, original character and craftsmanship, garden space, and connection to a vibrant community, this Penn-Knox home is a rare find.

* Be sure to check out the Virtual tour! Showings will begin at the Open House this Saturday 12-2pm.