185 W Park Ave Durango, CO 81301

Located above the Animas River, this vintage 3 bedroom 3 bath home is tucked between the river and Fassbinder Park, whose majestic old growth trees create a lovely backdrop. Situated just across the river from downtown Durango, close to all amenities and the river path. This is a large parcel, almost a quarter acre, with the property line going down the hill to the river. ~ ~ ~ Early Durango architecture and history is evident in this home, the original portion being brick and built, according to the county, in 1898. It is visible in old photographs circa 1899-1900. Some of the chain of ownership includes W.D. Ewing in the early 1930’s who established the Federal Lumber Yard. As you arrive, notice the spectacular specimen of a Manhattan Euonymus which graces the arched stone entrance gate. You immediately feel the old-world flavor with sheltered breezeways and arched paned windows. ~ ~ ~ A covered portico to the front door also encompasses a large outdoor living space protected from the elements. (Check out the location of the kitchen windows for passing through goodies ??). The adjacent xeriscaped courtyard also has an intricate stone gas firepit and raised bed garden area. The south yard is terraced steeply down to the river, with stone walls and steps, ending at a wonderful small patio overlooking the river. Create your private access. The treed slope is a great hideaway for a hot summer day! ~ ~ ~ Upon entering the home, you step into an inviting sun parlor encased by windows, with views out to the yard and river. The perfect spot to start your day, looking out from under its domed ceiling, enjoy your favorite morning beverage! The home was tastefully remodeled in about 2007, with updated plumbing and electrical, including modernized kitchen and bathrooms, accented with a touch of the classic white marble, indicative of the era. The walls throughout are finished in striking, custom Venetian Plaster, giving the space an eclectic European ambiance. ~ ~ ~ The main level of the home has a large formal living room, on the river side, with a gas fireplace and its handsome white marble surround, and the adjoining formal dining room. Note the high ceilings and unique light fixtures. The long galley kitchen is efficient and well equipped, sheathed in stainless steel and the signature marble, with a huge Wolf range, dark wood cabinetry and plenty of storage. The kitchen is open to a family/media room with another gas fireplace insert and large windows, looking across to the park. There is also a 3⁄4 bath on this level. The three bedrooms and two other bathrooms are upstairs. The primary suite and its spectacular bath, are full of light and look down on the river. The other two bedrooms share a full bath. . ~ ~ ~ There are stairs down to the usable cellar below, one end is heated space providing a bonus area, good for an exercise or hobby room, and has an outside exit to the north yard. The laundry is here. Plus a storeroom (could be a great wine cellar), and a small workshop. The utilities, two forced air gas furnaces and a 100 gallon water heater, are there too. And ... what was originally a carriage house is now a two-car garage with a storage loft, a toy/tool room, and gas sauna. All sorts of possibilities here. ~ ~ ~ This property has been home to some well-known Durango families and is ready for the next era.