Aged to perfection

One of the best things about older homes is that they carry with them the character of all their past owners.

The home at 444 Marie St. in Cape Girardeau is such a home. With an age of about 60 years and situated near Southeast Missouri State University, it's sure to have had several interesting souls pass through it. Yet with a lot of renovation work and some loving care it has retained its dignity through the years.

Along with the dignity of the years, it has many modern amenities. For instance, this home has four bedrooms and three bathrooms, very unusual for its time. Not only that, but two of the bedrooms have walk-in closets.

Its greatest asset is the fact that it's been around long enough that its now-restored oak hardwood floors have come back in style. The home is a one-of-a-kind combination of soul and chic.

A large, sunny front porch offers plenty of space for a porch swing and friendly conversation.

Inside, the focal point of the living room is its classic white-mantled wood-burning fireplace with shining black marble facing. The elegant fireplace is flanked on each side by custom-built window seats with storage below, and beautiful Arts and Crafts-style windows above. The windows were designed to invite in a summer breeze.

This home has a lot of space for entertaining, with formal and informal dining areas available. Custom shelving and cabinetry is found in many of the rooms.

The kitchen recently has been remodeled with light cabinetry and turquoise accents. It has been nicely modernized with modern black appliances, including a built-in oven, microwave and built-in range top. Sunny windows over the double stainless-steel sink brlighten everyday kitchen chores.

An informal dining area features great cottage-style windows all around the room, and custom cabinetry that creates an easy entertainment area. An exit to the quaint backyard patio creates a great atmosphere for warm weather entertaining.

The home's bedrooms are all upstairs. Each has its own personality and unique features. One has wonderful custom glass-front cabinets, the perfect place to display collectibles. Each bedroom has beautiful hardwood floors and plenty of closet space, and bountiful natural light from large windows.

This home also has a walk-out basement which is partially finished with paneled walls. It does have a sink and bathroom area, making it adaptable for downstairs living space.

traddle@semissourian.com