A Head-Turning Home Near Philadelphia Was Once A Vintage Barn And Silo

History abounds inside a barn and silo that have been transformed into a luxury residence in suburban Philadelphia. The stone Bank Barn, built in 1801, was entirely renovated into a modern home in 1990 with the original silo converted into four stories of living space.

“This is the first time the home has been offered on the market in 21 years,” says listing agent David Berlin of Long & Foster Real Estate. “The current owner has done a lot to the house and has put in excess of $1 million into the property. The grounds are magnificent and there have been some cosmetic changes to the outdoor decking. You have to see it to understand the peacefulness and privacy you get from this property. There is no property in Blue Bell like this with that kind of acreage listed in a long time.”

The grounds of this six-acre property feature everything from an arbor-covered walking path to a one-acre pond with a dock and fountain.

“Part of the uniqueness is that you can see the tranquility and beauty of the view, pond and grounds all from the silo,” explains co-listing agent Downey Hoster of Long & Foster Real Estate. “The owner also put in drip irrigation in all of the gardens so they are all watered timely.”

The renovation preserved the historic details of the home including the interior stone walls and exposed wooden beams. The modernized kitchen now features a Sub-Zero refrigerator, Thermador double convection ovens and two sinks. Off the kitchen, the renovated silo is accessed through French doors and features a spiral staircase that leads to an exercise room, a full bathroom and a loft.

Also of note is the first-floor primary suite with two spacious walk-in closets and a private deck that overlooks the backyard. There are two more bedrooms upstairs along with a loft area that overlooks the main floor.

“There are several ‘wow factors’ from the stone walls and floor to the way the current owner has furnished it,” Hoster says. “There is a first-floor primary suite with sliding glass doors that lead out to an outdoor shower. The house also has a two-zone geothermal HVAC system that works off the existing well. With geothermal, you are using water through the well and it also creates a constant temperature throughout the house. There is also a small private airport (Wings Field) behind the property that is ideal for the traveling executive. The lot is wooded so it is protected from noise.”

Who do they think will be the next buyer? “I think the next homeowner will use it as a primary residence,” Berlin says. “Blue Bell is a subdivision of Philadelphia and is a wealthy town that is also highly populated. The school district is excellent and the taxes are attractive.”

Long & Foster Real Estate has the listing for 400 Walmere Way, Blue Bell, Pennsylvania. The asking price is $2,999,999.

Long & Foster Real Estate is an exclusive member of Forbes Global Properties, a consumer marketplace and membership network of elite brokerages selling the world’s most luxurious homes.