A Bit of History
In 1876, William C. Stronach and his wife, Anna Ball Stronach, built a grand Italianate- influenced Victorian home and several ancillary structures on tree-studded acreage at the corner of Bloodworth and Boundary Streets in Raleigh. “W.C.” was a prominent businessman, banker, developer and County Commissioner. Anna Ball was a member of a prominent Raleigh family. The estate, known as both “Willowbrook,” and “Geranium Valley,” remained in the Stronach family for more than a century.
Today, thanks to decades of loving care, as well as thoughtful and meticulous renovations and upgrades, the nearly 5,000 square-foot residence remains one of Raleigh’s most revered historic homes. Appropriately, it rests in Oakwood, Raleigh’s first formally designated Historic District, and represented in the National Register of Historic Places.
A Sanctuary of Tradition and Fine Taste
Impeccably preserved, the home’s interior displays exceptional craftsmanship, the finest materials, and unquestionable taste where necessity or complementary design upgrades were called for. Seven fireplaces, high ceilings, lovely period moulding, and richly stained wide plank wood floors are merely a sampling of the design features gracing the residence.
The foyer opens, left and right, to a pair of welcoming sitting rooms; the ladies and men’s parlors of days gone by. Nearby, the formal dining room and, across the hall, the study, emanate 19 th century tradition and charm. The dining room, comfortably seating twelve, hosts a striking chandelier, sconces over the fireplace, wainscoting and pocket doors. The study, also with pocket doors, is an homage to master cabinetry with its beautiful wood paneling, coffered ceiling, and abundance of built-in bookcases.
The heart of any home is its culinary center. Here, not simply a back door, but a handsome formal entry is a testament to that prominence. The entry foyer introduces a spacious kitchen featuring high-end stainless appliances, both prep and serving islands, and a butler’s pantry with its own sink and significant cabinetry. The kitchen is open to a sizeable gathering and dining area, bathed in the light of multiple French windows overlooking a patio perfect for alfresco repasts. A stone fireplace and plenty of built-in cabinetry create a warm yet practical ambiance in this endearing space.
Proper Retreats for Family and Guests
Upstairs, the primary and guest suites are airy and bright, as if resting in the treetops. While the guestroom glows, thanks to its pair of large sash windows, and its delightful bath offers period luxury, the primary suite is sure to please the most discerning owner. The suite offers a separate dressing room, a pair of walk-in closets, and, as its showpiece, a luxurious bath with a free-standing farm tub in its own alcove.
Above the garages, a bonus room awaits. Its vaulted ceiling and bath with shower embellish its versatility. Exercise room. Guest suite. Yoga or art studio. Office. The possibilities are nearly endless.
Enchanting Grounds
There’s something magical about this estate’s grounds. Perhaps it’s a knowing that generations of a distinguished family, its members young and old, have picnicked on the lawn, or have enjoyed that very spot where now sits a beguiling little pond, or where the charming garden swing awaits. While the landscaping has changed a bit, the soul of the grounds remains. There are the verandas, front and back, spacious patios -- one with a built-in barbeque grill -- walking paths, seating areas and garden statuary.
In fact, magic encompasses this entire incredible estate; seemingly far from the madding crowd, yet convenient to schools, services, parks, recreation, cultural activities, and downtown Raleigh. Perfection.