A Note From Dan & Dana
When we first walked into 38 Neal, we knew this was a special place that struck all of the right chords for our family’s needs. We were immediately taken in by the gracious but just-right-sized scale and well-thought-out layout of this 1907 John Calvin Stevens gem.
While in need of some care and attention at the time of purchase – the house had great bones, we could not resist. Period details, high ceilings, and unique architectural touches fit seamlessly in a space that was both approachable and livable. It felt like home from the start. The Goldilocks feels carried to its location as well - on the quiet end of Neal Street – one of the best streets in Portland’s West End.
Fortunately, with just one private owner before us, the home retained much of its original character as it had not been previously renovated or overly “improved.” Upon purchasing we undertook a number of renovations, but always with an eye toward protecting and preserving. The entire house was stripped of head-to-toe wallpaper, revealing original intact plaster beneath. We carefully restored the rooms, including plaster renovation, refinished floors, and painted throughout. The heating system was updated with a modern high-efficiency boiler to bring the home into its second century. Modern bathrooms and kitchen renovations replaced prior 1970s efforts and were done in a way that blended modern and historic elements in an aesthetic and functional manner. 38 Neal, while architecturally significant, is not a museum, but a living, breathing home that has been a wonderful, warm place to live with many, many happy memories. We wish all the best to the future stewards of this very special property.
What We Love About Our Lives at 38 Neal:
The “welcome home” feel of the front porch, foyer, and center hallway.
The flexible use of the rooms and levels giving us the ability to host large family holidays with ample third floor guest space and then to shrink back to right sized living without a hitch.
The great sense of scale of the rooms – with a not too small yet not too big, “just right” feel.
The flexible central hall makes total sense – as a crossroads or dance floor (as often used).
Racing up and down the second “back” stairs while someone else goes up the front.
Enjoying cozy fires upstairs and down, during snowy Maine winters.
The authentic third-floor woodwork showing the original look and feel of the home.
Outdoor gatherings in a private, quiet garden setting with room for everyone.
Having enough of a yard to satisfy our gardening needs without overwhelming us.
Easy access to often free chamber music performances next door at the music conservatory.
Easy walking just about everywhere on the Peninsula and beyond.
Lovely, welcoming neighbors.