Historic 1907 Neo-Classical Home in Tuscaloosa, Alabama, With 7 Marble Fireplaces, Leaded-Glass Accents, and a Grand Staircase
The Monnish-Nicol Home in Tuscaloosa, Alabama, is a distinguished Neo-Classical Revival residence built in 1907 by Frederick W. Monnish, a prominent real estate developer. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, this architectural treasure has preserved its original grandeur, featuring long-leaf pine floors, intricate leaded-glass doors, and seven fireplaces adorned with Alabama marble mantels and porcelain tile. The impressive façade is enhanced by large columns and a grand staircase, epitomizing early 20th-century craftsmanship. Offering six bedrooms and 3.5 baths, the spacious floor plan and soaring ceilings highlight its timeless elegance. Recently listed for $1,000,000, this historic property celebrates the storied legacy of “old Tuscaloosa,” presenting a rare opportunity to own a piece of local heritage.
Grand Foyer
A spacious central hallway featuring warm wooden floors and large wood-trimmed doorways leading to adjacent parlor rooms. The area is anchored by two richly patterned blue rugs with floral motifs. Elegant period furnishings such as rocking chairs, side tables with lamps, and upholstered chairs line the hallway. Classic chandeliers hang from a high white ceiling. Visible on the right is a marble fireplace with framed artwork above it. The left parlor boasts Victorian-style seating on a red oriental rug. At the far end, a staircase with a patterned runner ascends, framed by artwork and additional antique wooden furniture.
Dining Room Details
A spacious dining room features warm wood floors and trim, with a large area rug beneath an elegant wooden dining table and six matching chairs. The table is covered with a pale yellow tablecloth and adorned with a blue-and-white vase of colorful dried flowers. Vintage sideboards and a buffet with decorative glass-front cabinetry line the walls, providing storage and visual interest. Large windows with delicate lace curtains fill the room with natural light. The space opens to an adjoining parlor or sitting room through wide wooden doorframes, allowing a view of a classic red sofa and an ornate white fireplace.
Living Room Details
A historic-style living room filled with natural light from three large, tall windows trimmed in wood. The walls are painted white, lending brightness, while patterned light-cream curtains add elegance. Centered in the room is a plush olive-green sofa with matching throw pillows and a classic blue upholstered armchair. A wooden coffee table sits on a large floral area rug with pink and green patterns. On one side, a wooden cabinet displays collectibles, while a vintage rocking chair and entertainment console with a flat-screen TV complete the space. Framed paintings and a standing lamp add cozy, personal touches and warmth.
Parlor Seating Area
Ornate Victorian-style furniture including tufted sofas, armchairs, and a central wooden coffee table are arranged atop richly patterned Persian rugs. Warm wood floors and wide, dark-stained trim frames three open doorways leading to adjacent rooms, giving the space an airy and connected feel. Gilded chandeliers hang from high ceilings, casting soft light across cream walls adorned with framed artwork. Multiple curio cabinets and display cases line the space, showcasing fine china and collectibles. The color palette combines deep reds, greens, and golds, enhancing the elegant, historic ambiance of this formal gathering area at the heart of the home.
Dining Room Details
Spacious dining room with honey-toned wood floors, soft beige walls, and rich, dark wood trim framing the doors and windows. A rectangular wooden dining table sits atop a large patterned area rug, surrounded by six matching chairs with classic carved details. The vintage fireplace features a decorative mantel with an ornate mirror and an old-fashioned clock at its center. Stained glass windows above a sideboard add color and texture to the space. Warm lighting from a single pendant lamp overhead and ample natural light from tall windows create an inviting, historic ambiance. Decorative rugs and dried florals enhance the elegant, traditional feel.
Kitchen Island Area
A spacious kitchen with a prominent central island topped with polished stone, accompanied by two wooden barstools. The cabinetry features white beadboard paneling, offering a classic, cottage-inspired aesthetic alongside modern stainless steel appliances and a built-in microwave. A row of white upper cupboards lines one wall above a backsplash accented with blue diamond tiles. Two pendant lights hang above the island, adding warmth to the bright, airy space. Large double doors with decorative glass panes open outwards, flooding the room with natural light. The patterned tile floor complements the crisp white walls and cabinetry, blending vintage charm with functional modernity.
Kitchen Island Area
A spacious kitchen with a central island topped with a dark granite surface and surrounded by white paneled cabinetry. The floor features a geometric tile pattern in white and muted blue-gray, contributing to a clean, airy atmosphere. On the left, large windows and a glass-paned door let in natural light, accentuated by a valance above. The right side displays warm tongue-and-groove wood paneling, decorated with framed vintage art and a wooden hutch topped with a lamp and small decor items. Beyond, a cozy dining nook with a round table and chairs is visible, featuring indoor plants and more vintage touches.
Bathroom Decor
A small bathroom featuring a white pedestal sink with silver fixtures set against soft pink walls. The decor is lively and eclectic, with colorful Mardi Gras beads and festive masks adorning the wall, adding a playful, celebratory character to the space. Above the toilet, a glass shelf holds a decorative container, framed certificate, and a yellow can, flanked by white towels with floral embroidery hanging beneath. A wooden table beside the sink holds neatly folded hand towels and books, while a classic mirror above the sink is draped with more beads. The space feels bright and personalized, blending antique charm with local flair.
Bedroom Details
A spacious bedroom features a large bed with a blue comforter and a knitted teal throw draped at the foot. The walls are painted a warm beige, creating a cozy feel, while dark wood trim frames tall windows that allow natural light to fill the room. Two nightstands flank the bed, each holding vintage-style lamps. Artwork with landscape scenes hangs above the bed, complementing the soft color palette. There’s a patterned light blue area rug covering the hardwood floor, a wooden bookshelf with an armchair, and a dresser topped with decorative items, all contributing to a classic, inviting atmosphere.
Front Porch View
Expansive front porch featuring classical elements such as large white fluted columns with ornate Ionic capitals. The porch flooring is painted in a weathered greenish-blue tone, showing age and original charm. A white balustrade lines the perimeter, providing a sense of enclosure while framing the view of a tree-lined street beyond. One corner holds wicker-style seating with tan cushions, inviting relaxation. Overhead, the porch ceiling is paneled and painted white, adding to the historic character. Mature trees and greenery are visible on either side, creating a serene, almost grand entrance to the home.
Children’s Bedroom
A spacious bedroom features two beds: one with a vintage wooden frame and colorful cartoon bedding, the other larger, dressed in white and blue linens. Soft beige walls are adorned with framed seaside photographs. An ornate wooden side table sits between the beds, topped with a small lamp and clock. Two tall windows framed by dark wood trim let in natural light, their sheer green curtains gently filtering the sun. Plush toys rest on a chair near the windows, beside a pale pink cushioned rocker. A large olive and gold patterned rug covers parts of the warm wooden floor, contributing to a cozy, lived-in feel.
Bedroom with Twin Beds
Spacious bedroom featuring two beds: a full-size bed with a wooden headboard and a smaller twin bed with a spindle frame on the right. Warm-toned hardwood floors contrast with cream-colored walls and dark wood trim around doors and windows. An antique wooden vanity with a mirror sits near the door, while two bedside tables, each with a traditional lamp, add to the cozy ambiance. A large window with teal curtains allows natural light to fill the space. The décor includes framed artwork above the beds and a table with a yellow lamp next to the door, contributing to a homey, historic atmosphere.
Hallway Sitting Area
A wide hallway features soft beige walls, tall dark-stained door frames, and a patterned blue area rug running the length of the floor. One side of the hall displays a vintage wooden bookshelf filled with books, a round wooden table adorned with a floral ceramic lamp, and a green upholstered armchair with a decorative pillow. Across from the bookshelf, shelves hold neatly organized items and framed artwork. Family photos and whimsical art line the walls. The hallway is well-lit by overhead fixtures and natural light streaming through glass-paneled double doors at the far end, creating a cozy, eclectic ambiance.
Bedroom Interior
A cozy, sunlit bedroom featuring a four-poster bed adorned with a floral quilt and matching pillows in soft pinks and greens. The space is accented by polished wood floors and thick, dark wood trim framing a large window dressed in sheer, blue-green curtains tied to reveal a leafy tree outside. A vintage carved wooden writing desk sits against the cream-colored walls, surrounded by framed artwork and small decorative pieces, adding a touch of period character. An upholstered chair and small shelving with flowers provide a reading nook, enhancing the inviting, old-fashioned charm of the room.
Parlor Fireplace
A historic parlor features polished hardwood floors adorned with a richly patterned red area rug. A marble fireplace serves as the focal point, topped with a large gilded mirror and decorative plates. The seating area comprises a deep green striped sofa and two red velvet armchairs, arranged around an oval wood coffee table. Stained glass windows bring color to the bright, airy space, framed by wood trim. The walls are painted white and hung with delicate artwork. An upright piano, a vintage floor lamp, and a display shelf with porcelain pieces add further period charm, evoking an elegant, welcoming atmosphere.
Bedroom Layout
A spacious bedroom featuring light beige walls and large wood-trimmed doors, conveying a warm, historic ambiance. The queen-sized bed is centered against the far wall and dressed in pale blue bedding. Flanking the bed are matching wooden nightstands, each with vintage lamps that cast soft, warm light. Framed photographs and art line the walls, adding a personal touch. A soft blue area rug with leaf patterns covers the hardwood floor. The ceiling fan with wooden blades is centered above. In the foreground, a wooden bench with blue and red cushions sits beside a rocking chair, blending comfort with antique flair.
Bathroom Fireplace
A spacious bathroom features a soft pink color scheme on the walls with white trim and molding throughout. To the left, a white vanity with beadboard detail sits below a trio of classic light fixtures, while the countertop is topped with a simple sink. Above the cream-tiled backsplash are two pieces of framed art in pastel tones. In the center, a tiled bathtub is positioned under a large window with sheer white curtains. On the right, a decorative white fireplace with carved floral details and a mirrored mantle displays bottles and a clock, adding vintage charm. A blue textured rug lies on the tan tiled floor.
Study Lounge
Spacious, sunlit room features tall windows with dark wood trim allowing natural light to pour in. Cream walls and an ivory floral-patterned area rug soften the hardwood floors. Seating includes a vintage golden-hued wingback chair with matching ottoman and a green armchair, both beside a wooden side table. A large wooden desk sits under the window, and a bookshelf packed with binders, books, and framed photos extends along one wall. A wooden armchair and a record cabinet with a classic radio add vintage charm. Sheer curtains, cozy decor, and view of the outside garden create a welcoming, lived-in atmosphere.
Bedroom Suite View
Warm wooden tones dominate in this historical bedroom, featuring a four-poster bed adorned with a floral quilt and matching pillows. The bed faces outward to two adjoining rooms, each visible through wide, dark wood-trimmed doorways. Walls are a soft cream and hold framed botanical prints, enhancing the vintage charm. A floral-patterned oval rug rests beside the bed on softly glossy wood floors, complemented by additional rugs in each room. Antique furniture, including a carved vanity with decor and a dainty side table holding a pink-shaded lamp, add detail and character to the serene, inviting space.
Bathroom with Tub
A bright, spacious bathroom centered around a vintage clawfoot bathtub, painted a pale beige on the exterior. The room features large windows offering ample natural light and views of leafy trees and a green tin roof outside. Walls and trim are painted a soft off-white, giving a clean and classic feel. A pedestal sink sits beneath a wooden-framed mirror with decorative detailing at the top. Light-colored tile flooring is partially covered by textured cream and blue bath mats. The toilet is tucked by the far wall, and the space feels airy, serene, and slightly historic with its simple, elegant details.
Kitchen Countertops
A bright and inviting kitchen features crisp white cabinetry with beadboard detailing and brushed metal knobs. The countertops are a lively blue, complementing a backsplash of white tiles interspersed with vibrant cobalt-blue diamond accents. Modern stainless steel appliances, including a double-door refrigerator, dishwasher, electric stove, and built-in microwave, add practicality and shine. The flooring is a classic white tile with blue diamond-shaped insets, echoing the backsplash. The layout is U-shaped, with a spacious granite-topped island providing additional workspace and storage. Natural light and uncluttered surfaces enhance the room’s clean, fresh aesthetic, making it both functional and cheerful.
Bedroom Fireplace
This spacious bedroom features two beds: a queen with a curved wooden headboard and a vintage twin, both dressed in pastel bedding. Rich wooden floors set a warm tone, complemented by dark wood window and door frames. An ornate fireplace with a brick surround and decorative ironwork anchors the room; its mantel holds small decor items and adds historical character. A velvet burgundy armchair with a colorful throw and pillow sits near the fireplace. Three framed landscape photos hang above the queen bed. Green curtains filter natural light from large windows, and a simple nightstand lamp adds a cozy glow.
Bedroom with Double Doorway
A spacious bedroom featuring two beds—a twin with a vibrant blue comforter patterned with colorful illustrations, and a larger bed dressed in a white quilt with blue accents and decorative pillows. The room has warm wood trim around the doors and windows, with high ceilings and cream-colored walls lending an airy feel. An ornate gold and green area rug covers the hardwood floor. A white vanity with a mirror and a cushioned stool sits against one wall. Doorways on opposite sides connect the space to adjacent rooms, where more period details and natural light are visible.
Front Facade
A grand, historic American home is showcased from the street, framed by mature trees and lush greenery. The architecture boasts a Greek Revival style, with tall, white fluted columns supporting an expansive, double-height portico. The exterior features soft light-gray wooden siding, black shutters on large rectangular windows, and a symmetrical layout. A brick path leads from the circular driveway toward the stately entrance, which is highlighted by double front doors and a small balcony above. Ample lawn space surrounds the house, complementing the stately, time-honored elegance of the structure and its shaded, serene setting.
Front Exterior
A stately historic home with a grand entrance framed by towering white columns and a wide, shaded porch. The house is two stories, painted a soft cream color, and features large windows with dark trim. An elegant brick pathway leads from the circular driveway to the front steps, crossing a well-maintained lawn bordered by mature magnolia trees and lush shrubs. The architectural style evokes Greek Revival influences, with the symmetrical facade, prominent cornices, and decorative balcony above the entryway. Inviting rocking chairs and pots of greenery are arranged on the porch, giving the home a welcoming, timeless charm.
Driveway Entrance
A wide concrete driveway leads up to a historic two-story American home with a traditional white exterior and green roof. The drive curves gently, framed by a lush patch of grass and ornamental shrubs, including a bush with pinkish-purple blooms. To the right, a large carport with white columns provides covered parking for two vehicles. The home features several tall windows, neatly trimmed hedges near the entry steps, and is surrounded by mature trees that offer shade and character. The space feels welcoming and well-maintained, with brickwork visible on the left adding a classic touch.
Listing Agent: Carrie Fitts of Carrie Fitts Real Estate via Zillow
