A Lawrenceville Row House Balances Historical Charm With Modern Convenience

PHOTOS BY FLYOVER PROPERTIES

Purchasing a home often requires compromise. Balancing options such as walkability, convenience, and design features can feel like a tightrope walk — but some homes check all those boxes.

For buyers looking to enjoy city life in a vibrant community without sacrificing space or convenience, 297 38th St. might be the one.

“What really resonates with buyers is the layout, the scale of the rooms, and the location just off Penn and near Butler Street,” says Realtor Sarah Madia of RE/MAX Select Realty, who has the home listed for $430,000. “It feels authentic to Lawrenceville, but works for how people actually live today.”

Madia points to updates like a powder room on the main level and the addition of a garage, as well as nods to the home’s turn-of-the-century roots such as exposed wood beams and brick walls.

Situated on a slope with a street-facing integral garage and nicely sized front porch, the home’s dark charcoal exterior stands out among the classic red brick homes.

“It feels bold, intentional, and completely in sync with Lawrenceville’s creative edge,” says Madia.

The clean, dry garage can be used for parking, storage or even as a street-facing hangout spot for neighborhood gatherings. Lawrenceville is known for frequent pop-up community hang sessions and a neighborly feel.

The front porch, which is perfect for people-watching (a.k.a being nebby), opens into a large and bright living area on the main floor of the home. Overall, the home measures just over 1,600 square feet, but the smart layout makes it feel larger.

“This house is made for hosting,” says Madia. “The kitchen, dining, and living spaces flow together so you’re part of everything, not stuck in another room. It just works.”

The sunken dining room is sandwiched between the spacious living room and the ample kitchen. The exposed brick walls throughout the space, as well as a floating original fireplace, feel just as edgy and industrial as the exterior — yet still manage to be warm and homey.

The kitchen’s redesigned layout makes enough room for a compact island with seating for two. Charcoal-hued cabinets echo the exterior design while light stone counters and a geometric marble backsplash add to the creative vibes. Stainless appliances and a stainless range hood contribute to the industrial feel.

Upstairs, two sizable bedrooms share a large bathroom that includes hookups for laundry. Each bedroom also contains an original fireplace, adding to the historical charm of the home.

“These bedrooms are actually spacious,” says Madia. “They are not the typical narrow city rooms. You can fit real furniture and still have room to breathe.”

At the top of the staircase, a half-wall creates a sizable loft space that can be used for a home office, gym or den.

Madia, who has become familiar with most city neighborhoods as she helps connect homes with buyers, says that she can’t imagine a better spot for someone wanting to enjoy city life.

“You’re just off Penn Ave, close to Butler Street, and literally next to one of my favorite neighborhood spots, Happenstance Cafe. I grab coffee and sandwiches there all the time, and in the warmer months their rear patio is such a great place to work outside or catch live music,” Madia says.

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Overall, Madia says this home manages to balance history and function. A new roof and new AC unit, as well as updated finishes and fixtures, make the home turnkey-ready. The preserved details provide the warmth and charm that Pittsburgh’s older homes are known for.

“As with many Lawrenceville homes, this property reflects the neighborhood’s industrial roots and evolution,” she says. “The exposed brick is a nod to its history, while the modern updates show how the area has transformed into one of the city’s most exciting places to live. It’s a home that tells the story of old Pittsburgh meeting new.”