Explore a 1929 Birmingham Residence in Alabama With Crown Molding, Arched Doorways, and a Dramatic Mezzanine Staircase
3205 Sterling Road in Birmingham, AL, epitomizes the warmth and grandeur of early 20th-century American architecture, with striking Colonial Revival influences seen in its classic brick façade, symmetrical lines, and elegant portico. Likely built in the early 1900s, this century home carries significant historical value, offering a blend of timeless details—arched doorways, crown molding, ceiling medallions—with modern luxury from recent updates. Set on a spacious, beautifully landscaped plot, this 5 BR/5.5 BA residence features a grand foyer, formal living/dining areas, a chef’s kitchen, mezzanine, lower-level den, and luxurious master suite. Boasting ample storage, finished attic space, and multi-level patios, this rare offering is listed at $2,250,000, though square footage and plot size are not specified.
Front Exterior
A stately two-story brick house stands prominently at the center, featuring symmetrical design and a classic colonial architectural style. The facade showcases tall white columns framing the main entrance, with a rounded portico and decorative white trim. Black shutters accentuate the multi-paned windows, while dormer windows are set into the dark, sloped roof. A wide brick walkway leads straight from the street to the front door, bordered by neatly manicured green lawn and lush garden beds filled with flowering shrubs. Towering trees frame the property, giving it a grand, established appearance beneath the bright blue sky.
Aerial View
A sweeping aerial perspective focuses on a historic residential neighborhood filled with mature trees, winding streets, and spacious lots. At the center, a marker pinpoints an elegant two-story house, distinguished by a dark roof, tall windows, and an inviting red-brick pathway leading to the entrance. Surrounding homes display diverse architectural styles, with stone and brick facades, chimneys, and expansive lawns. The abundant greenery of the trees creates a serene, picturesque setting, while the distant view of rolling hills and forested areas adds to the charm. The overall atmosphere communicates tranquility and established neighborhood character.
Front Exterior
A stately two-story brick home is centered in a landscaped front yard with a long, welcoming brick walkway leading up to the entrance. The facade features symmetrical windows with white trim and classic black shutters, and is accented by mature trees and manicured shrubs flanking the house. The front door is framed by elegant white columns supporting a small balcony above, evoking classic colonial revival architecture. Dormer windows punctuate the gray shingled roof, while twin brick chimneys rise on either side. The lush lawn and surrounding thickets of flowering bushes create a timeless, dignified curb appeal.
Front Exterior
A stately historic American home built in the Colonial Revival style sits amid a lush, manicured lawn framed by mature trees and flowering shrubs. The exterior is clad in red brick with contrasting white trim, creating a classic and inviting appearance. Four black-shuttered windows run across the front, while three dormer windows line the steep slate roof. A prominent white columned portico centers the entrance, adding grandeur and symmetry. A long red brick driveway winds toward the house, bordered by landscaped beds filled with blooming azaleas. The overall effect is elegant, tranquil, and reminiscent of early twentieth-century American architecture.
Front Entrance
A stately entrance featuring a brick exterior with a symmetrical facade. The doorway is framed by four elegant white columns with fluted detailing, supporting a classic rounded portico with ornate dentil molding along the top. The front door is wooden with glass panels, accompanied by sidelights and a decorative fanlight transom above. Black shutters complement large multi-paned windows on either side, and lush greenery and flowering plants in containers add natural touches at the base of the steps. A black lantern hangs from the portico ceiling, enhancing the historic and welcoming atmosphere of the entryway.
Foyer Staircase
Wide foyer area with a grand staircase curving upward to the left, featuring dark carpet runners and white bannisters with black railings. Rich, chocolate brown damask wallpaper covers the walls, complemented by intricate white crown molding. An antique wooden console table sits against the main wall beneath a large gilded mirror, decorated with a table lamp and classic ceramic accessories. A vintage patterned rug in muted tones of orange and blue lies on polished hardwood floors, tying the space together. Overhead, a traditional brass and glass lantern-style chandelier provides elegant lighting for this stately entrance.
Front Entryway
A stately entrance with a rich wooden front door features a fan-shaped transom window above and sidelights on each side, allowing abundant natural light. The walls are covered in intricate, silver-grey damask wallpaper, lending an elegant, historic charm. Two ornate, dark wood chairs with patterned upholstery sit opposite each other, flanking the doorway, while gilded, decorative mirrors hang above each chair. The hardwood floors are adorned with a large, patterned area rug in cream, rose, and navy tones. Detailed crown molding and soft archways give the space an inviting, sophisticated feel.
Formal Living Room
A spacious and elegant living area features a neutral color palette with cream walls and crown molding, accentuated by an ornate ceiling medallion. The white ornate fireplace, topped with classical urns of greenery and a round mirror, is a focal point. Seating includes four plush armchairs in a subtle animal-print fabric and a beige sofa adorned with patterned pillows. The glass-topped coffee table sits atop a blue and gray area rug. Two tall windows with lavender curtains allow natural light, while a dark wood cabinet and decorative statuary introduce warmth and classical charm. The overall ambience is refined and inviting.
Living Room Details
A sophisticated living room with a soft, neutral palette, featuring cream walls and detailed crown molding. Two tall windows with classical drapes let in ample daylight, framing two patterned armchairs set around a glass coffee table with an ornate metal base. A pale, plush sofa with decorative pillows sits nearby, facing an elegant fireplace with a black marble surround and white mantel, adorned with greenery in urns, a round mirror, and framed art. The room’s blue patterned area rug adds a subtle pop of color, while ceiling medallions and hardwood flooring complete the classic aesthetic.
Formal Living Room
A spacious living room featuring a harmonious blend of classic and contemporary design elements. The room is anchored by a large, patterned area rug in shades of blue and gray that covers polished hardwood floors. Elegant light gray armchairs with subtle patterns face a long, neutral-toned sofa adorned with decorative throw pillows. Rich wooden end tables with matching lamps flank either end of the sofa, while a sophisticated armoire and gold-accented side tables provide further warmth. The walls are painted a crisp white and complemented by crown molding and ornate ceiling medallion, with soft drapery framing tall windows that let in ample natural light. A botanical painting above the sofa adds a gentle, artistic touch.
Entry Hallway and Stairs
A grand entry hallway is anchored by a sweeping staircase with dark-patterned carpet, cream spindles, and a glossy black handrail. Ornate wallpaper in taupe and silver covers the walls, complementing polished wood floors that gleam under soft light. An intricate ceiling medallion with brass lantern adds historic flair. A Persian-inspired rug with coral, navy, and ivory hues defines the main area. A wooden side table topped with decorative porcelain sits against the wallpapered wall. Through an arched doorway, a formal dining room is visible, furnished with dark wood chairs and sunlit by tall shuttered windows.
Dining Room Table
A formal dining room features a long polished mahogany dining table surrounded by intricately carved wooden chairs upholstered with dark, floral-patterned fabric. The table centerpiece is a tray with green foliage. Walls are painted in soft white, trimmed with cream-colored molding, and the large windows are fitted with plantation shutters. The ceiling is adorned with an ornate circular medallion. On one side, a sideboard holds two elegant lamps and a gold-framed floral painting, while a large potted plant in a blue-and-white ceramic planter stands nearby. Elegant credenzas flank the space, adding a traditional and sophisticated touch.
Breakfast Nook
A small, elegant dining area designed for intimate meals features a round wooden table surrounded by four upholstered chairs with light beige cushions and weathered wood frames. The wallpaper is a striking black pattern adorned with delicate floral vines, lending a vintage, romantic charm. Built-in glass-front cabinets painted in cream flank the windows and corners, adding architectural interest. A soft blue chandelier hangs overhead, complementing the blue floral centerpiece on the table. Large white shuttered windows bring in natural light, and detailed crown molding accents the room. An open doorway provides a glimpse into a white kitchen with stainless appliances.
Kitchen Details
Bright and airy kitchen corner with a panoramic view created by tall, white-trimmed windows on two sides. Sleek black marble countertops run along the L-shaped counter, contrasting against crisp white cabinetry with polished silver knobs. The double stainless steel sink features a high-arc faucet, accompanied by small potted plants. Large stainless steel professional stove with a vent hood dominates the back wall, displaying salt, pepper, and olive oil bottles. Light wood herringbone floors add warmth. Decorative glass jars with pantry items, a cookbook, and a white ceiling fan overhead contribute to the clean, modern, and inviting atmosphere.
Kitchen Windows
Bright, modern kitchen featuring white cabinetry with black granite countertops and stainless steel fixtures. Large windows line one wall, providing a view of classic architectural columns and lush greenery outside. The chevron-patterned hardwood floor adds warmth and texture to the otherwise crisp, contemporary space. Recessed ceiling lights are subtly arranged, enhancing the spacious, open feel. Small potted plants by the sinks introduce a touch of green indoors. Sleek built-in appliances, including a double-door refrigerator, complete this clean and elegant design. The space balances historic external views with updated, sophisticated interior finishes and functional, uncluttered surfaces.
Kitchen Island Focus
A modern kitchen features white paneled cabinetry from floor to ceiling, giving the room a crisp, clean look. A central island with dark granite countertop provides prep space, with a glass jar of bright fruit adding a pop of color. The geometric chevron wood flooring adds warmth and a touch of vintage elegance to the space. The black accent wall at the back is adorned with a large abstract painting in shades of blue, gold, and gray, creating a sophisticated contrast to the white cabinetry. Stainless steel appliances and recessed lighting contribute to a refined, contemporary atmosphere.
Powder Room Sink
A small, elegant powder room features a white, scalloped-edge pedestal sink with ornate gold-tone faucet handles and a coordinating gold towel ring holding a white hand towel. The walls display a sophisticated mix of dark, shimmering textured wallpaper above, paired with rich, veined marble tiles in deep browns, grays, and pinks along the lower half. A wide mirror runs along two walls above the sink, expanding the space visually. Framed architectural art prints add a refined, classic touch. The overall palette blends deep hues with metallic and stone surfaces, creating a luxurious and historic atmosphere.
Upstairs Landing
Wide, open landing area featuring rich, medium-toned hardwood floors and a grand, carved dark wood desk with ornate legs set near a rattan chair draped with a geometric pillow and gray cushion. To the right, intricately detailed wrought-iron banisters frame the staircase, adding elegant contrast to the white, fluted columns and elaborate crown molding throughout. Natural light streams in from expansive windows, highlighting classic white paneling and walls decorated with traditional millwork. In an adjoining room, a tall vintage cabinet and black sculpture add a touch of historic charm, while leafy greenery and nautical accents bring life to the workspace.
Grand Staircase Landing
A spacious upper landing area features elegant dark wood floors and ornate black wrought iron railings that frame a sweeping staircase. The perimeter of the space is bordered by floor-to-ceiling windows, allowing natural light to pour in and offering views of the exterior brick walls and terrace. Broad, fluted columns painted in creamy white anchor the open layout, while intricate molding and paneled ceiling details add classic sophistication. Below, a glimpse of a fireplace and tasteful seating area hints at the inviting living space downstairs, completing the stately and airy ambiance of this prominent hallway.
Living Room Balcony
A grand, double-height living room with a dramatic open layout and mezzanine balcony overlooks the main seating area. White coffered ceilings and thick, fluted columns evoke classical architecture, while wrought iron railings with ornate patterns frame the upper level. The color scheme is soft and neutral, with walls, ceiling, and trim painted in shades of white. A large beige sofa with blue accent pillows and two zebra-patterned armchairs surround a rustic wooden coffee table atop a natural fiber rug. Artworks, plants, and subtle gold décor accents add warmth and personality to the elegant, sunlit space.
Living Room Details
A grand double-height living room with classical architectural elements and tasteful contemporary furnishings. White fluted columns support an overhead gallery with ornate wrought-iron railings, adding a sense of historical sophistication. The walls are painted a soft white, which pairs with the light grey sectional sofa adorned with deep blue accent pillows. Two striking zebra-patterned armchairs flank a rustic wooden coffee table, set on a textured natural fiber rug. Modern abstract artwork hangs above a black fireplace with gold accents. Subtle greenery, table lamps, and layered lighting enhance the inviting, carefully curated space with elegant traditional and modern fusion.
Grand Staircase Lounge
Sweeping double-height space with a striking black iron staircase and matching upper railing, surrounded by ornate white columns and thick molding. The lounge area features a large beige sectional sofa accented with blue pillows, two armchairs with a light zebra pattern, a jute rug, a marble-topped coffee table, and side tables with decorative lamps. The flooring is a sophisticated mix of black and white marble. Wall-to-wall built-in bookcases add functionality while French doors framed by pilasters open to an exterior patio. Natural light floods in from arched and rectangular windows above, creating an airy, elegant ambiance.
Upstairs Landing
A spacious upstairs landing features an elegant skylight that floods the space with natural light. The area is bordered by a classic staircase with white spindles and glossy dark wood handrails, providing a dramatic contrast. The wall to the right is adorned with ornate Victorian-style silver damask wallpaper, while the opposite wall is papered in a softer, textured neutral tone. The floor is covered with a dark, patterned carpet. Through the doorway, a glimpse of a serene bedroom is visible, with large windows, white bedding, and a delicate chandelier, highlighting the refined historic character of the home.
Bathroom Vanity
Double vanity area features cream cabinetry with slight patina and black marble countertops, each with separate sinks and gold-toned fixtures. Large wall mirrors create depth, reflecting the pastel floral wallpaper that wraps around the space with a delicate botanical motif. The wallpaper blends soft pinks, greens, and lavenders, evoking a classic and elegant ambiance. Ornate crown molding frames the ceiling, providing an additional touch of sophistication. Brass towel holders and hardware accent the sinks, while decorative objects, such as a white orchid and glass apothecary jars, rest on the countertop, adding charm and refinement to the bathroom’s overall aesthetic.
Primary Bedroom
A spacious bedroom with a grand, symmetrical layout centers around a large bed with a tall, upholstered headboard in a soft taupe fabric. The bed is dressed in crisp white linens and accented by a trio of decorative throw pillows in pale gray and silver. Matching dark wooden nightstands flank both sides of the bed, each topped with an elegant table lamp. Crown molding details the perimeter of the ceiling, which rises to a central octagonal skylight, filling the room with natural light. The walls are painted a soft white, contrasting with plush, deep brown carpeting, while tall windows with plantation shutters provide additional light and privacy.
Sitting Room Details
A small, bright sitting room with polished hardwood floors and light blue walls, accented by cream-colored trim and crown molding. The room is illuminated by natural light coming through three large windows, each fitted with white plantation shutters. In front of the largest window is an antique wooden bench upholstered in pale yellow fabric, adding a touch of classical elegance to the space. The white ceiling is adorned with a simple ceiling medallion and a modern white ceiling fan. The space feels airy and formal, with a refined color palette that enhances its historic charm.
Bathroom Vanity
Classic bathroom featuring a black marble countertop with a metallic sink and traditional silver-tone faucets. Three small potted plants add a touch of freshness and greenery to the black vanity surface. The cabinetry is painted cream, matching the trim and doors throughout the space. Walls exhibit dark green patterned wallpaper framed with marble tiles, lending a rich, historic feel. A large mirror above the counter visually doubles the space, while ornate crown molding with a Greek key design adds an elegant touch. The bathroom opens into a hallway with polished wood flooring, light blue walls, and abundant natural light from shuttered windows.
Bedroom Styling
A bright, airy bedroom features pale walls with cream trim and crown molding, anchored by warm hardwood floors. The large bed has an upholstered, button-tufted headboard and is dressed in neutral bedding with colorful accent pillows. A woven area rug brings texture beneath the bed. Beside the bed sits an ornate wooden nightstand holding a floral lamp and a delicate orchid. A classic chair in light tones stands near shuttered windows that bring in natural light. Opposite the bed, a richly carved dresser displays vibrant modern art and red glass accents, blending historic charm with contemporary flair.
Bathroom Shower Area
A compact, elegant bathroom dominated by cool gray marble tiles, covering the walls, shower space, and floors. A glass-enclosed shower sits at the far end, featuring gold and chrome fixtures, with a large geometric overhead light adding modern flair. Built-in wall shelves with glass inserts offer sleek storage near the toilet. An oval marble vessel sink rests atop a black counter with traditional cabinetry. The walls combine marble and textured wallpaper, arranged above a chair rail for visual interest. Subtle checkerboard trim adds a hint of ornamental detail. White wooden trim and window shutters complete the sophisticated, timeless look.
Back Patio Entrance
A sun-dappled patio sits behind the home, bordered by low brick walls and surrounded by mature trees and lush landscaping. Tall white columns support an elegantly curved overhang above large windows and a glass door, which allows plenty of natural light into the house. The red-brick exterior is complemented by white trim details and arched window frames for a touch of classical grandeur. The patio itself is paved in a checkerboard pattern using large square tiles and bricks, creating a stately yet inviting outdoor living space that blends well with the natural greenery and wooden privacy fence beyond.
Front Entrance
A grand neoclassical entryway features red brick walls, a semi-circular portico supported by four white columns, and arched double-height windows. Elegant round windows accent each side of the entrance, topped with a detailed balustrade balcony above. Large trees drape over the brick pathway, creating filtered shade that softens the sunlight on the house’s façade. Two stone planters filled with greenery flank either side of the brick steps. Ornamental wrought iron railing runs along the upper story, while lush garden beds and shrubs surround the entrance, enhancing the historic charm and symmetry of the property.
Front Porch Entrance
A stately brick front porch features white columns and decorative wrought iron railing, exuding classic Southern charm. The porch roof peaks in a gable, detailed with white trim work. White rocking chairs and lush potted plants create a welcoming seating area. Surrounding the porch, mature trees and well-tended shrubs add privacy and frame the red brick façade. A winding brick walkway leads to the entrance, bordered by low hedges and shaded by leafy branches, evoking a sense of timeless elegance. Natural light highlights the traditional design, enhancing the inviting, tranquil atmosphere of this exterior space.
Front Porch Dining
A spacious front porch features classic red brick flooring laid in a herringbone pattern, echoing the historic facade of the home. White painted columns support a crisp white roof, providing shade and architectural elegance. A white wooden dining table set with matching chairs is centered under a ceiling fan, creating a welcoming space for outdoor meals or gatherings. Ornamental planters with lush green foliage frame the entrance, while wrought iron railings add a touch of vintage charm. The porch offers a serene view of the leafy front yard and the tranquil residential street beyond.
Front Porch Seating
A spacious covered porch features a floor of red herringbone brick, surrounding brick walls, and sturdy white columns supporting a beadboard ceiling with a central white ceiling fan. Classic white rocking chairs and a white wooden bench offer inviting seating, complemented by white side tables and a patterned outdoor rug in front of French doors leading inside. Potted ferns and leafy plants line the metal, decorative railing for a touch of greenery. The porch overlooks mature trees, creating a peaceful, shaded space for relaxation and conversation that feels both traditional and welcoming.
Patio Courtyard
This outdoor patio area features a grid pattern of stone pavers bordered by red brick, creating a visually interesting and classic surface underfoot. Large windows with white trim line one wall, allowing natural light to spill indoors. The space is partially shaded by the overhang of the roof, with stately white columns supporting the structure and adding an elegant architectural detail. Raised brick planters outline two sides of the courtyard, with a mature tree providing greenery and shade. A wooden privacy fence in the background completes the scene, creating a serene and inviting spot for relaxation or entertaining.
Listing Agent: Shelley Clark of Ray & Poynor Properties via Zillow
