There are few buildings as startling — in this town of gabled roofs and shingles — as the modernist landmark designed in 1959-60 for Carl and Dorothea Murchison by TAC, The Architects Collaborative, with Robert S. McMillan nominally in charge. Built less than a decade after Mies van der Rohe’s Farnsworth House, 2 Commercial Street is a two-level International style slab with walls of glass. Because Walter Gropius (1883-1969) was a partner in TAC, this is frequently referred to in town as the “Gropius house.”
The original Gropius House is the original structure in the Pilgrim Landings “sub division” and sits atop the hill at 2 Commercial Street. See my prior post “Far West End Activity.”
To see more of the original “Gropius House” go to Building Provincetown Blog. David Dunlap has done an incredible job over the years publishing wonderful facts about many Provincetown buildings. His blog is an absolute joy to explore.
In the Far West End, from West Vine to The Moors, there are three large developments that have been going up in stages over the past few years. It has been fun to watch these substantial developments emerge from the ground, go to market, and then watch the second phase go up. These 3 developments consist of 6 condos with 6 more being built on W Vine; 17 condos total at Herring Cove village; and 9 single family home sites at Pilgrims Landing. A total of 38 units, a substantial number of quality properties and indicative of the energy and excitement of the real estate market here in our little fishing village.
(As always my caveat stating that much of the descriptive property below is direct from Cape Cod MLS so I am not responsible for spelling and grammar.)
57 West Vineis currently 6 townhouses with an additional 6 being built.
#C,$659K, 2bedroom and 3 bath, 1300 square feet. New construction townhomes in Provincetown’s west end are underway and can be purchased at pre-completion prices with the opportunity to customize some interior finishes. Constructed to the highest standards these tri-level townhouses feature: Anderson true-divided light windows, brick patios, mahogany decks, landscaped grounds, a/c, basements, laundry, and 2 parking spaces. The exteriors of each unit will be a mix of painted clapboard & gray stained shingles to give contrast to each home. The entry level is an open floor plan for kitchen, dining and living w/ gas fireplace. Each bedroom with ensuite bath is on a separate level to maximize privacy for you and your guest. Oak floors, tile/stone baths, crown molding, & 5-panel doors are just a few of the details that set these homes apart. Your new Provincetown home for summer 2013 awaits!
Phase ll at Herring Cove Village is the last phase of this successful and beautiful development on Bradford Street Ext. out at at the Moors.
#16, $1.399M, 3bedroom and 4 bath, 2,160 square feet. Introducing the brand new, top of the line, model unit for Phase II of Herring Cove Village, the West End’s most luxurious condominium, boasting countless amenities.These spacious free standing homes are built with entertaining in mind. The oversized designer chef’s kitchen is the hub of the floorplan,& features custom cabinetry, Thermador appliances, large custom center island, a contemporary gas fireplace, and conversation area. Sliders from the kitchen lead to a bluestone patio & large exclusive yard. There are beautiful dark stained maple floors and 9 foot+ ceilings throughout. The master suite has a walk in closet and a sleek double sided fireplace between the bedroom and large marble bath. The other 2 BR have ensuite baths. Enjoy water views from a 2-tiered roof deck that houses a hottub. Wired for central sound and home automation.
#12, $895K, 2 bedroom and 3 bath, 1,400 square feet. A one-of-a-kind unit at Herring Cove Village, the West End’s most luxurious condominium. This 2BR/2.5BA unit is laid out on 3 levels, and is the only unit with this size and layout in the newest section of the development. The high end kitchen & living room are on the first floor, with a gas fireplace to warm the atmosphere. Sliders from this level lead out to a blue stone patio, great for outdoor grilling and entertaining. Each of the floors above houses a private bedroom suite, with oversized living space & en-suite bath featuring custom tile work. From the third floor bedroom, continue up to a huge waterview roof deck that is plumbed and wired for a hot tub as an upgrade amenity. The unit has CAC and is wired for central sound and home automation. Shed storage and 2 parking. Under constr, Int. photos depict similar unit.
Pilgrims Landing is a 9 lot subdivision at the very beginning of Commercial Street being developed at what is know as the Murchison Estate. There are two building lots #8 and #9 on Commercial Street and 6 house lots in the gated section of the development. It looks like lot #2 is being built now and when done will be is one of the most dramatic homes in town. It is so exciting to see such a modernist home being built. Of course the Murchison house, otherwise know as the Gropius House stands atop the subdivision and is lot #7, is one of the most incredible examples of modernist architecture anywhere.
To see more of the original “Gropius House” go to Building Provincetown Blog. David Dunlap has done an incredible job over the years publishing wonderful facts about many Provincetown buildings. His blog is an absolute joy to explore.
Next I will highlight east end and downtown developments. Watch for these posts in the new year.
December is a month of contrasts here in Provincetown. On one hand the streets are uncrowded, morning walks with the pooch can be totally solitary, yet evenings out for dinner at The Mews or Jimmy’s can be packed and boisterous.
The stores and homes are decorated for the holidays, including our sweet Beachfront Realty office done up for the Holidays with garland, lights, wreathes and ribbon. Next door The Adam Peck gallery is decorated to look like a ginger bread house. (Pictures to come)
Other contrasts are of the physical type. Take a look at these pictures of Commercial Street taken Friday….watching weekday strollers and locals walking downtown during the reconstruction of Commercial Street is like looking going back to the 1800″s. Not a motor vehicle in sight. The reconstruction of Commercial Street has become quite a fall/winter event. The street has been dug up, a thick layer of heavy gravel has been put down, and a temporary layer of asphalt over that…all to be finished this spring.
Then you drive out to Province Landing and you see this vision of modernity…This home is rising from the sand on Lot #2 at the development. (More on this in a future post)
….and of course the beauty that is the Moors on a gorgeous late fall day.
There is a lot of building activity this fall in town, not only home renovations all over town but great substantial developments. In the next few weeks I will review my favorite new developments in different neighborhoods. Starting in the near West End there are three great projects done or nearing completion. We have shown many of these condos to our buyers and they are all unique in their own way and offer terrific options and amenities. My repeated caveat that much of the descriptive copy is direct from MLS.
4 Race Road is one of my favorites as the floor plans are unique and the finishes are very nice. Unit #3 the first floor 2 bedroom unit rambles along with a separate living room, a great dining room/kitchen and then down a lovely gallery hallway are two bedrooms with their own full baths. 4 Race Road #3, $659K, 2bed/3bath, 1,170 square feet. This first floor unit is the perfect mix of historic detail and modern conveniences. Enter through the double front doors into the light-filled living room w/hardwood floors and oversized 2/2 windows. Seperate kitchen/dining with white cabinetry, top-of-the-line stainless appliances and granite counters. 1/2 bath. Two good-sized bedrooms, each with their own en-suite bath w/custom tiles. 2 car parking on Carnes Lane. Exclusive use yard area in front and along east side of house.
The PH is just wonderful. One of the most unique condo offerings in town with it’s multiple decks and amazing light. 4 Race Road #4 1 bed/3 baths, 1,080 square feet, $649K, is nearing completion. Located on top two floors of 4 Race Road, the first floor of the unit has a living room, eat-in kitchen, 1.5 baths and a glorious sun room that opens onto a south-facing deck. Upstairs is a large bedroom with private deck, and an en-suite bath containing a separate tub & shower and double sinks. A very special unit with of 1080 s.f. plus 300+ s.f. of decks. Exclusive use yard space and two car tandem parking on west side of building.
64 Franklin Street #F. 3 bed/2 bath, 1,080 square feet, $654,900. This is a completely renovated three bedroom penthouse in Provincetown’s west end. Nearing completion this unit with vaulted ceiling, skylight, open kitchen, dining and living area offers great light and air. The kitchen offer lots of work space, stained cabinets, solid surface counters, stainless appliances and island for added dining. The master bedroom has its own bath with tiled shower for two. There are two guestrooms which share the second bath also with tiled shower. A large exclusive use deck off the living room is great for outdoor entertaining. Additional features include: air conditioning, gas fireplace, crown molding, cottage style 5-panel interior doors, oak floors, separate in-unit laundry room, basement storage, and parking for 2 cars. One year warranty included.
64 Franklin #E, $639K, 3 bed/2 bath, 1,080 square feet. This 3-bedroom, 2-bath unit open kitchen, dining and living area offers great entertaining space. The spacious kitchen has lots of work space, stained cabinets, solid surface counters, stainless appliances and island for added dining. The master bedroom has its own bath with tiled shower for two. There are two guestrooms which share the second bath also with tiled shower. Plenty of options for outdoor use with exclusive mahogany decked porch, side bricked patio and large yard. Additional features include: air conditioning, gas fireplace, crown molding, cottage style 5-panel interior doors, oak floors, separate in-unit laundry room, basement storage, and parking for 2 cars. 1 year warranty included. #D is available too 2/2 $639K, 830 sf
50 Pleasant Street #1, 3 bed/4 bath, 1,600 square fee. $829K. Brand new construction in the West End! Own one of only two units on a beautifully wooded lot. Three bedrooms, three and a half baths, townhome style living with a full finished basement. Oak flooring, granite counters, stainless appliances, gas fireplace, central air, exclusive use outside space. The unit is accompanied by a separate garage space and artist studio above. Completion date approximately late October
50 Pleasant St #2, $810K, 2 bed/4 bath, 1,276 square feeet. Own one of only two units on a beautifully wooded lot. Two bedrooms, three and a half baths, townhome style living with a full finished basement. Oak flooring, granite counters, stainless appliances, gas fireplace, central air, exclusive use outside space. The unit is accompanied by a separate garage space and artist studio above. Completion date approximately late October
Illustrating the continuing strength of the market both of these condos at 50 Pleasant are under contract.
Next week I will focus on developments farther into the West End out towards the beach.
Get a Glimpse Inside the South End’s Coolest Homes on the South End House Tour
This year’s South End House Tour will take place on Saturday, Oct. 20.
by Sara Jacobi…South End Patch
It’s a little bit like the History Channel meets HGTV. Right in your backyard.
Get a peek into several of the South End’s historically notable or highly designed homes on the 44th annual South End House Tour, put on by the South End Historical Society.
The tour, to be held on Saturday, Oct. 20 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., is a self-guided walk through six amazing South End homes starting at the Southwest Corridor and ending mid-way down Shawmut Avenue. Since the tour is at-your-own-pace and snakes around on a more than 1 mile path, the full tour can take anywhere from two to four hours. It starts at the Boston Center for the Arts.
South End Historical Society Executive Director Hope Shannon said the idea for the house tour began more than four decades ago as a way to showcase the creativity and history of the neighborhood.
“People were buying a lot of run down or abandoned buildings in the South End and restoring them,” she said. “The neighborhood was much different back then.”
Today, the tour seeks to showcase all sorts of notable homes, from the historical, to the “green,” to the homes with unique architecture or high design.
Special to the 2012 tour is a combination deal with the Ellis Memorial Antique Show, which will be held at the Cyclorama on the same day. A ticket to the house tour comes with a complimentary admission to the antiques show. This year’s tour will also feature a stop inside the New Hope Baptist Church, which will soon be turned into condo apartments.
Shannon said that besides serving as a significant fundraiser for the historical society, the house tour’s main goals are to continue bringing people into the South End and to showcase the neighborhood’s history and charm.
“The neighborhood has changed so much, and the homes have so much history,” she said. “We want to remind people of the long history and bring awareness for continued preservation. We want visitors to leave with positive memories of the people they meet and the businesses they patronize, and recognize the South End is an important place historically.”
Tickets are on sale now through Oct. 19 for $25, and can be purchased online at the Historical Society’s website or through several different realtors in the neighborhood. Tickets will also be on sale on the day-of for $30 each. A $50 ticket includes admission to a private party at an additional house.
The $1M and above market in Provincetown has been relatively active this season. The above $1M price range is from $1M to a high of $4.75M. Of the 136 properties (single family, Multi-family and condos) that have sold YTD in 2012, 8 have sold above $1M, and they were all single family properties. These 8 property sales equals 5% of total unit sales year to date.
There are 218 properties (singles, multis, and condos) for sale in Provincetown of which 55 are priced above $1M, which represents 25% of the total.
5% of sales, 25% of the available properties for sale… it is crowded! For buyers in this price range there are plenty of properties to look at for price and amenity comparison. Currently there are 5 properties under contract with asking prices above $1M. I will profile these once they close.
Below are descriptions of the properties that have sold over $1M year to date. Once again a caveat. I took the descriptions straight from MLS, so errors in syntax and grammar are out of my hands.
67 Bayberry Ave SOLD $1.05M
67 Bayberry Ave, a contemporary home, impeccably maintained, this home is bright and airy, white washed in a soft colors, and is ideal for entertaining with an open plan along with 3 bedrooms. Enter through glass doors to a spacious living room with fireplace, a kitchen & separate dining room that comfortably seats 10. The living room has two sets of atrium doors leading to a covered deck and large terrace. The kitchen has custom cabinetry, and limestone counter tops. There is a guest room with deck on this level with full bath. Next level has an open den, and mb suite with separate bedroom and sitting room with fireplace, bath and deck. The 3rd bedroom is on this level with another bath. Up one more level is an intimate sun room with 3 decks.
510 Commercial St SOLD $1.05M
510 Commercial Street is a lovely single family home with water views. The 1st floor has a spacious living room with fireplace, generously sized dining room, recently renovated kitchen, laundry area and full bath. There is also an adjoining one bedroom, one bath apartment with exclusive outdoor space, perfect for guests. Upstairs there are two master bedrooms with ensuite baths, one of which has direct water views. A second guest room with water views and full bath complete this level. The home is well set back from Commercial St allowing for a spacious front yard and privately situated side yard with patio. Driveway parking for 3 cars in tandem.
3 Atlantic Ave SOLD $1.065M
3 Atlantic Ave. Very few people have enjoyed the pleasure of owning this West End historic home. One of Provincetown’s oldest homes, dating back to the 1700’s, this A+ quality recent restoration makes this pristine home an exceptionally rare opportunity. The original architectural details have been painstakingly preserved side-by-side with the highest quality contemporary fixtures, appliances, systems, windows, doors, and more. The value is further magnified by both the central location-steps from the beach-and the generous enclosed yard space for parking, entertaining and gardening. The current owners have taken extreme care to bring this three-quarter Cape style home into the 21st century with a great deal of love and attention.
19 Berry Lane SOLD $1.093
19 Berry Lane. Steps from the Beach and Views from Every Room! Here is Your Opportunity to Own a Custom Built Provincetown Home in the Quiet East End. From the Moment you enter the Foyer you will feel a sense of peace and serenity. The Living Room has Custom Stained Glass Windows from an old N.H. Church (easily removed, decorative only), hardwood floors and balcony access. The 2 Story Family Room offers a solid wall of windows, designed to maximize the expansive views,Brick fireplace with Bluestone Hearth and accent wall. Watch the Harbor lights from the Dining Room. Entertaining is a breeze in this Spacious, light filled Kitchen! Upstairs you’ll find the Owner’s Suite with Spa Quality Bathroom and the Guest Wing with 2 Bedrooms with views. Full Daylight BSMT also w/ views, 2 car garage.
9 W Vine St SOLD $1.2M
9 West Vine Street. Completely renovated 5 bedroom 4 bath home located in the heart of the West End. There is a spacious living room, dining area and kitchen on the first floor which opens to a blue stone patio and fenced in yard. The kitchen features a large center island, granite countertops, a farm sink & marble backsplash. There is a master bedroom suite with a private tiled bath and separate entrance, a second bedroom and tiled bath on the first floor. The second floor features a second living or family room with gas fireplace, in addition to an office, three more bedrooms. Stained pine & fir flooring in all living areas, Laundry room, ample closet space, an unfinished attic, outdoor shower, & 2 car parking.
525 Commercial St SOLD $1.25M
525 Commercial Street. Funky East End bay front home with multiple personalities. The original structure appears to be a marine related or mercantile structure dating from pre-1800 and is now known as the Not So Great Room with soaring 2 story ceiling and original folk art found object installation by Jackson Lambert. A 20th century addition is a large sunken living room with brick fireplace, wood floors and bay windows facing Commercial St and the bay. The most recent custodians of this gem added a contemporary solarium and deck on the bay and updated the kitchen and second floor bath a few years ago. Estate sale. Offers are subject to estate obtaining a license to sell from probate court. Town sewer outstanding betterment of only $2,295.41, to follow deed
107 Commercial St SOLD $1.6M
107 Commercial Street. There are only 15 single family waterfront homes in the west end – not since 2004 has one come to the market below $2M. Don’t miss this opportunity to purchase the perfect beach house in the perfect location that usually exists in dreams. This charming 3-BD, 2-BA waterfront home enjoys great privacy and spectacular views. 1st floor has an open floor plan, exposed beams, wood-burning stove and fireplace (not in working order), with sliders leading to front and side yards and large waterfront deck with steps to the beach. Also on this level are a full bath and laundry. The 2nd level has 2 waterfront bedrooms with sliders to a common deck with ladder to rooftop deck. There is also a 3rd BD and BA on this level. 3-car parking, Sewer Connection.
6 Winston Ave SOLD $1.8M
6 Winston Ave. Spectacular Waterfront Home with breathtaking views of Cape Cod Bay from almost every room. Talk about inspiration and beauty! There are 4 bedrooms in this magnificent home with the master on the second floor, gas fireplace, dazzling views of the water, a large elegant master bath, and a door leading to your private deck overlooking the water. Another bedroom shares those same views and deck, along with a full bathroom that separates the second and third bedrooms upstairs. First floor is full of light with a virtual wall of sliders that open to an expansive deck for your sunny enjoyment and relaxation. A large stunning kitchen with Granite counter tops, a first floor bedroom or office and a new artist studio with more gorgeous views of the water. Offered at $2,350,000.
This is an interesting blend of East End, West End, and downtown properties. My favorites are 3 Atlantic as it is in the near east end on Atlantic and Commercial and just smack in the middle of things on one of the most special streets in town. 107 Commercial is a favorite as it is one of those special properties right around the bend from the Coast Guard Station in the west end that is the epitome of casual downtown beachfront living… everyone who walks by it says…”I wish I owned that house.”
*Data is for single families, multi families and condos only sold from 1/1/12 to 8/31/12. There are some additional properties for sale in Provincetown like hotel/motels, and commercial properties which I do not generally include in my analysis of residential sales. All data from Cape Cod and Islands MLS.
32 Rutland St #3L, the penthouse, is not only the most expensive condominium sold in the South End this year, but it is one of the most incredible penthouses ever built in our wonderful neighborhood. This condo was one of six units built in the recent renovation of the old “Project Place” at 32 Rutland St, which was a homeless and low income assistance program (which is a great cause and still exists).
This particular penthouse duplex is 1 of 6 units that has about everything that you could Imagine: Direct Elevator Access, 2 Fireplaces, Enormous Master Suite, Surround Sound throughout, 3.5 bedrooms, garage parking, modern metal and wood railings, 2 decks (with 1 being 1100sf with outdoor kitchen and grill and a 6 person hot tub, with tv). The Master bath is in a class of it’s own. It boasts a whirlpool tub with a tv built in, and the master shower has the Kohler 12 jet digital shower system which is just just crazy , oh, and a TV in the shower too. It has 3,145 square feet and sold for $2.6M which comes out to $827 per square foot.
So far, 5 of 6 have been sold with the largest and priciest one left which can be seen here This unit is a large lower duplex with even more bells and whistles, so check out this listing.
Compare this property to the “Best on the Beach” Waterfront property I posted about a few weeks ago. An interesting comparison as to what close to $3M buys you in the South End vs Provincetown.
There are some gorgeous homes for sale in Provincetown and this architectural masterpiece on the beach in the East End of Provincetown is one of there best!
This magnificent home is being marketed for $2.99M. It has almost 3000 square feet of fabulous living space and another 1700 square feet of additional living space in outdoor decks. It sits on an acre of land with an accreting (growing) beach.
A masterpiece of architectural design, this award winning 4-bedroom, 4-bath home with 150′ waterfront frontage is one of Provincetown’s most distinctive homes and is extremely private. Designed by award winning architect, Michael Winstanley Architects, the house has been awarded a prestigious national Design Award. The house has also been published many times.
This home offers breathtaking views, blending seamlessly with the natural environment on 3/4 acre with an accreting beach. The 3,000 sf house also boasts 1,700 sf of additional living space in outdoor decks.
The living areas on the first floor include stunning 180 degree views of the harbor and sweeping views of Provincetown. An all glass living room and gas fireplace define Casual elegance.
Each of the four master bedroom suites presents a unique definition of customized tile showers and bath. An expansive outdoor cabana room with stone gas fireplace provides a perfect place for outdoor entertaining.
An elevated lit boardwalk provides access and privacy to the beach with views of Provincetown, Truro Long Point and beyond.
This photograph of the boardwalk evokes the feeling you get from this incredible home. Open, almost endless space, water, sun and sky and most importantly the ease and comfort of waterfront living.
A joy to experience and a joy to show!
In a future post I will compare this to a $3M luxury property that just sold in our other favorite neighborhood – Boston’s South End.
Our broker tour last Thursday of newly listed properties for sale in Provincetown was fabulous. We saw an incredible variety of properties priced from $279K to $2.195M. (I’m also including a favorite from the week before that is listed for $2.990M which is just stunning.)
The first property is in the far West End behind the Delft Haven Complex and includes a 3bed/2 bath main house and a charming 2 level, one bedroom carriage house, all on 3/4 acre. Listed at $2.195M. This property is gorgeous!
This mid-century modern home on Priscilla Alden road harks back to the Bohemian roots of our wonderful community. This is a 2 bed/2 bath home and is being marketed for $995K.
This stunning landmark single family home on Creek Round Hill Road is being marketed for $1.595M. This 3 bedroom, 3 bathroom west-end home has incredible water views from every one of these windows.
This great West End Commercial Street top floor condominium has 2 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms and is being marketed for $775K. Although not on the waterside of Commercial Street it feels as close to waterfront as possible with great views of the bay from the living room and the decks.
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We saw this property last week. This is one of the premier properties in town and is being marketed for $2.990M. With four master bedroom suites, multiple decks and a cabana terrace…and views for days it is exceptional. It is located on the beach in the far East End of town.
I call this real estate soft porn…These properties are gorgeous no matter what price category you are in. From $775K to $2.990M.. The natural materials, impeccable design, siting, the interiors… all create lovely visceral reactions…take a look.
There’s an awful lot of construction activity in Provincetown these days. East End, West End, downtown. Seems like you even have to watch for construction vehicle traffic everywhere you are – and it’s December!
Harborfront Landing at 333R Commercial Street is a newly completed luxury beachfront condominium development in the center of town. Currently, the new project consists of seven 1BR and 2BR homes from 465 to 798 square feet and listed for $476K to $998K – parking included.
Province Landing is a $14.5M, 50-unit rental community offering a high-quality, green community for year-round residents with moderate incomes. Located on an undeveloped parcel along Shankpainter Road, this project is a great new addition to the western most entrance to Provincetown.
Construction at Herring Cove Village Phase 2 is well under way with six new units targeted for summer 2012 completion. Located in the far West End very close to the moors, this great mix of 2BR and 3BR+ condominiums are priced from $749K to $1.399M.
A new 9-lot subdivision on the famed Murchison House property at 2 Commercial Street in the far West End is quickly moving ahead. Called Pilgrim’s Landing, the projects sits directly across from the Provincetown Inn with great water views. Phase 1 is already under construction and includes the renovation of the existing gatehouse (pictured), the grounds and the Murchison House designed by Walter Gropius.
