129 VALLEY PARK RD Phoenixville, PA 19460

This 3,240 Sq. Ft, post and beam house the home of a renowned author and historian definitely merits a visit. Built on the banks of the Pickering Reservoir in northern Chester County, and sitting at the end of a long, winding drive, this residence is a private oasis of natural beauty. The style of the house was inspired by the vernacular architecture of Normandy, France. Spend a little time on the terrace overlooking the water and you will likely see herons, foxes, wild swans, bald eagles and more. The author designed the house to accommodate his collection of 18,000 (yes, thousand) volumes in a two story library, with an upper gallery reached by a spiral staircase. On snowy evenings the wood-burning stove provides ample warmth. The fireplace in the adjacent living room is also wood-burning. The library measures just over 550 sq. ft. Together with the living room and rear terrace, these spaces are perfect for entertaining. The dining area is at one end of the ample kitchen, facing the reservoir.On the east end of the house, the studio, with a large, north-facing picture window and attached office, could readily be converted to a ground level, mother-in-law suite with direct access to the driveway. The second floor, with three bedrooms and two baths, make this an excellent family home. All the windows in all the rooms look out onto lovely views of woods and lawn and water. The property also includes a detached three car garage with ample storage on its second floor.Although it seems like you are deep in the countryside, you are a mere 5 minutes from the restaurants of Phoenixville, 5 minutes from the history and beauty of Valley Forge Park, and 12 minutes from the Paoli train station servicing Amtrak and SEPTA rail lines.To schedule a visit contact:http://www.cochraneinc.com/