Convenient character

As the saying goes, "They just don't build 'em like they used to." And that is certainly true of the home at 1829 Thilenius in Cape Girardeau. It has the character of a historic home, but the convenience of being located midtown, only minutes from everything Cape Girardeau has to offer.

Its character is obvious even from the street. It has a bright copper roof over the front door of the home, and gleaming leaded glass windows that bring back days of graceful living. Arched doorways, hardwood floors and crystal doorknobs are other amenities not often seen in more modern homes.

Yet, this home has actually improved with age. It has recently been remodeled, giving it more openness and modern conveniences. The kitchen has all new cabinets, countertops and appliances. Both bathrooms have been updated. Maintenance-free vinyl railings and posts have been added on both porches. The home now has two heating and cooling systems and electrical wiring and a new water heater have been added.

Still, to truly appreciate the home, one must see it a room at a time. Its interior is just as classic as the exterior, which features white aluminum siding and black shutters.

The living room gleams with light from large windows that showcase the hardwood floors. French doors lead to a tiled back porch and large back yard. A classic brick wood-burning fireplace with a white mantle contrasts nicely against the buttery mocha wall color.

The dining room is host to the home's original leaded glass windows, which feature a diamond pattern. A shining brass and glass light fixture hangs elegantly over the dining table.

The modern kitchen features deep ruby wall color, which contrasts nicely with the crisp, bisque cabinetry and trim. A large breakfast bar with a modern stone-look brown countertop nicely divides the kitchen from the dining room, while still giving the entire area a feeling of openness.

Near the kitchen is an exit to the home's one-car garage and a half bath. An arched doorway is a wonderful transition between the living room and dining room.

Upstairs are the home's three bedrooms, all of generous size, and all blessed with plenty of natural light through large windows. One has a large walk-in closet that could actually be used as a small office or sitting room if desired.

The basement of the home is not finished, but easily could be converted for additional living space. It does have a walk-out basement to the home's large fenced-in back yard.

One of this home''s most prominent advantages is its location in the Franklin Elementary School District. This house is not only within walking distance to the school, but also to Southeast Missouri Hospital, and only minutes to all of Cape Girardeau's shopping and restaurant areas.

traddle@semissourian.com