Front Porch Evenings Are Just Part of the Appeal in Highland Park

PHOTOS BY EXPOSURE IT

In Highland Park, stately historic homes line leafy streets, accompanied by neighbors who still stop to chat in a way that feels timeless and connected to the city’s roots. 

It’s an appealing combination that draws buyers to the East End over and over again, according to The Fraser Team at Piatt Sotheby’s International Realty. 

“What makes Highland Park especially unique is that the entire neighborhood is designated as a Residential Historic District on the National Register of Historic Places,” says Sal Bucci, the Fraser team’s listing prep and marketing specialist. He loves the distinctly European feel of the community. 

“You get grand early 20th-century homes on generous lots, tree-lined streets and an enduring environment. At the same time, you’re minutes from some of the city’s best amenities.That combination of architectural character and everyday convenience is what continues to drive demand here.”

For Ken Huntly, Highland Park’s appeal was immediate. 

For the last eight years, he has lived at  5620 Jackson St., sharing it with partner Issac Tarbell. Huntly says he found the property when relocating back to Pittsburgh and trying to narrow down his search to specific neighborhoods.

“I quickly realized that Highland Park was the best of all things Pittsburgh had to offer,” he says. 

He fell hard for the quiet, historic streets and proximity to endless city amenities. Built in 1930, the Jackson Street home also had smart, high-quality renovations that showcased its original architecture. 

“I ended up choosing the house, in part for the location, but also because the house has all the modern touches with tons of authentic historic character,” he says. “High ceilings, tons of exposed brick and natural light that fit seamlessly into the updated design.”

Tarbell says his partner’s instincts about the home were spot on. 

“Ken often explains being drawn to the home immediately,” he says. “Beyond the location, the size and layout stood out right away.” 

Realtor Emily Fraser and her team have now listed the home for $575,000. She says the property is especially appealing because it strikes the perfect balance between old and new.

“Pittsburgh’s reputation for aging housing stock doesn’t apply here,” says Fraser. “Beyond the renovations, the current owners have maintained the property exceptionally well, which is something that’s immediately evident during a tour. For a new owner, there’s very little to take on upfront, which is increasingly hard to find in homes of this era.” 

Tarbell says the Jackson Street home’s four bedrooms and three full bathrooms, plus a powder room on the open-concept first floor, are perfect for everyday living — and hosting. 

Spanning three levels, the house measures at just under 2,500 square feet. The first floor has two exposed brick fireplaces, hinting at the age of home amidst the smart new finishes. A gourmet kitchen with a breakfast bar island and two sinks makes cooking for a family or guests easy; a set of French doors lead to the outside. 

“Some of our favorite memories were made outside,” says Tarbell. 

The home’s welcoming porch and flower beds also became a showplace and creative hobby.  

“A lot of time was spent in the front garden, which became a true labor of love and a focal point of the home,” Tarbell says. “It was where most of the gardening and seasonal work happened, and it was especially rewarding to see it come to life throughout the years.” 

The French doors off the kitchen lead to a wooden deck with broad steps that flow down to a stone patio. The privacy fence creates an oasis in the middle of a bustling neighborhood while also vastly extending the living space in warmer months. 

On the top two floors of the home, a well-appointed primary suite is one of the home’s top-selling features. 

“The ultimate deciding factor for me was the master suite with its truly unique layout,” says Huntly. “It ended up being exactly what I didn’t even know I was looking for in a home.” 

The primary suite is divided by a double-sided brick fireplace into seating and sleeping areas. The seating area is lined by two large walk-in closets, while the large and luxurious bathroom is adjacent to the sleeping area. Dual marble vanities and an oversized shower feel as much luxury resort as it does a family home. 

Another bedroom, laundry closet and hallway bath complete the second floor; the third floor contains two more bedrooms with ample storage, plus a bathroom. 

While Huntly and Tarbell are leaving the city, they say a piece of their heart will remain in Highland Park. 

“The space has provided the stage for so many amazing memories with friends and family over the years,” says Huntly. “I will miss the social use of the home, but probably the thing I will miss the most are quiet evenings on the front porch enjoying a glass of wine, surrounded by the front garden in full bloom.

Tarbell adds it was the perfect home for their family.

“If not for a work relocation outside of Pittsburgh, this truly would have been our forever home,” he says.