562 Bergen St

Only rarely does a property of this caliber – and pedigree, come to market. A masterwork of Swedish architect Magnus Dahlander, this 3,220 square-foot, five-bedroom, single-family home was built in the Romanesque Revival style in 1893. 562 Bergen Street is one of an ensemble of three homes, which, when seen from certain angles, appears to be a single mansion, punctuated on either side with two four-story turrets. But this splendid, move-in-ready townhouse stands out in particular with its east-to-west orientation, windows on three sides, and its dramatic arched entrance set on the long side of the structure, which so beautifully blends rough-hewn brick, brownstone details, and lovely plantings at every turn. Entering through the grand rounded door with its beveled glass panes, sidelights, and stained glass, you arrive in a proper vestibule with a patterned period tile floor and original oak detail. Just beyond, the foyer centers around the distinctive staircase with restored balusters and railings. It opens on one side to the front parlor with delicate fretwork, a pier mirror, the first of this home’s six mantels, and its turreted bay windows that bring in light from multiple directions. On the other side is a den/library with built-in bookcases and beyond that an office with tall windows and another mantle. The two upper levels house five bedrooms and two bathrooms in total. On the third floor, each large bedroom has an original mantel, completely modernized walk-in closets, and other architectural details. There is a large, bright bathroom with a spa shower and stained-glass windows. The top floor has another large bedroom with a bay of windows and custom-built closets as well as two smaller bedrooms. This floor boasts a truly elegant marble bathroom with a freestanding extra-deep tub, separate shower and stained-glass windows. Each of the smaller bedrooms has closets, tall windows and beautiful wood floors. The garden level features a thoroughly modern kitchen with custom millwork, a large center island, honed soapstone counters, and high-end stainless-steel appliances. Adjacent is a long pantry with floor-to-ceiling cabinets that augments the kitchen’s already extensive storage, and a half-bath neatly tucked in. The gracious dining room has another detailed mantle, original wainscotting and windowed bay. The breakfast room, on the other side of the kitchen, leads through French doors to the recently redesigned landscaped garden. Equally welcoming for al fresco dining or as a fabulous play space, this lush oasis includes mature and recent plantings, a pergola, sophisticated uplighting, and a new bluestone patio. This house has been impeccably cared for and improved over many years. All systems – plumbing, electrical, roof, heat, hot water and windows, have been upgraded or replaced. The facade has been restored and, most recently, central air conditioning was added throughout. The full cellar offers easy access to mechanicals and great storage space, too. This simply perfect home is a short distance to the 2, 3, B, Q and C subway lines, BAM, Barclays Center, Prospect Park, and all that Prospect Heights, Park Slope and Fort Greene have to offer. Showing by appointment.