the good house: staten island time capsule tudor (Patreon)

Sometimes a house comes along that's in a rare state of not-greige. This two-story 1980 Tudor is, uh, the opposite of not-greige. In fact, most of its 70s accoutrements remain perfectly intact. The Tudor style saw a minor renaissance in the 70s especially in California where it became typical Hollywood flair. In a decade dominated by the color brown, this makes some degree of logical sense. 

Ignoring the photoshopped sky, this house is a typical example of 70s Tudor: two stories, visual heftiness, brown, bubble skylights, and diamond-paned windows. It's almost in McMansion territory from a tackiness standpoint, but the architecture is typical of two-story non-split-level houses of the period. 

Here we see a typical proto-Lawyer Foyer. Note the oak trim and the linoleum floor, as well as the bevel cut on the interior arch. 

Much of the interiors remain original. Federal and Georgian-period furniture (and its imitations) were very popular in the 60s and 70s owing to a) the American Bicentennial and b) Jackie O's renovation of the White House which was highly publicized. They remain staples of McMansion interiors to this day. 

This kitchen is very transitional between the 70s (dark, small cabinetry) and the 80s (loud wallpaper and borders, open floor plans). Note the etched glass interior window and brass fixtures. 

Another transitional feature: a mix of 80s proto-great room and 70s stone hearth. Much of the furniture, however, is a mix of whatever was left behind. 

The bay window signifies this is the main entertaining room. Note the lack of ceiling fixtures as floor and table lamps are preferred. 

Many of the major rooms (bedrooms, bonus rooms) are unfurnished or furnished with modern staging furniture. But where this house really shines is in its bathrooms. Check out this incredible powder-blue number complete with bidet! 

Here you can find its tan sibling. 

Finally, a look at the foyer from the top floor. Notice the choice of stained glass panels instead of chandeliers and the odd walkway to nowhere. Starting to get a little McMansiony!

Link to Listing for the curious. 

Happy New Year and thanks for being my Patrons! See you soon.