Grand 1900 Beaux Arts Mansion in Louisville, Kentucky With Exquisite Limestone Work, Stained Glass, and an Carriage House

This magnificent 6-bedroom, 6-bath Victorian Mansion in Old Louisville, Kentucky—currently listed at $2,500,000—offers a rare chance to own a piece of Louisville history. Built in 1899 for Gilmer Speed Adams of the notable JB Speed family, the home showcases exquisite Beaux Arts architecture by William Dodd and Arthur Cobb, renowned for their innovative use of steel beams. Set atop a limestone foundation with striking beige Roman brick and intricate stonework, this residence features original stained glass, antique fireplaces, a grand staircase, red oak-paneled library, and a chef’s kitchen. With a carriage house, private gardens, and koi pond, the property extends both luxury and historic craftsmanship, making it a true architectural landmark.

Front Entrance Details

A grand entrance featuring two large, ornate columns with Corinthian capitals framing a recessed porch. The door is topped with an arched transom filled with decorative grillwork and golden detailing. The house number, 1365, is displayed prominently above the door, while the word ‘Century Court’ appears on a weathered sign above the entryway. The brickwork is tan, and the woodwork around the door is painted in a soft cream shade with gold accents. Reflections in the glass door panels capture the surrounding trees and a glimpse of warm lamp light within.

Foyer Entryway

A grand entrance showcases double wooden doors with intricate stained glass panels, framed by elegant white molding and an arched transom window above. The space is adorned with warm yellow walls featuring gold trim paneling, and detailed crown molding runs along the ceiling. An ornate crystal chandelier hangs centrally, casting a soft glow. Two vintage velvet chairs with wooden legs sit opposite each other along the walls, flanked by decorative brass wall sconces. Rich, patterned area rugs cover the polished hardwood floor. Openings to adjacent rooms reveal deep blue drapes and classic furnishings, enhancing the stately historic ambiance.

Grand Foyer

A spacious entry hall with soft yellow walls and intricate gold accents, featuring a central arched entryway supported by fluted columns. The winding staircase with dark wood handrails and white balusters creates an elegant focal point, climbing to an open balcony with a view to the second floor. Rich Persian-style rugs cover gleaming hardwood floors. Furniture includes an antique glass-front cabinet, an ebony side console with turquoise figurines, and classic wood chairs. Ornate vases and table lamps add warm, ambient lighting, while an impressive crystal chandelier hangs overhead, enhancing the room’s luxurious, historic atmosphere.

Formal Living Room

A large, traditionally styled living room with deep burgundy walls complemented by ornate white trim and crown molding. The space features three tall windows dressed with elegant swags of dark green and gold fabric and sheer drapes, allowing soft daylight into the room. At the center, a white fireplace with a gold trimmed screen anchors the room, topped with a gilded mirror and candle holders. The furniture includes a gold velvet chaise, an orange tufted sofa, and an upholstered armchair, arranged around a dark wood coffee table on a dark green carpet. Decorative lamps, artwork, and antique accessories add to the opulent, historic ambiance.

Parlor Bay Window

An elegant parlor with rich, dark wood paneling and coffered ceiling beams frames the space. A central bay window with leaded glass panes fills the far wall, letting in diffuse natural light and accentuating the stately atmosphere. A grand piano sits before the window, flanked by classic sculptures and tapestries. The furnishings include a brocade-patterned sofa adorned with plush, tasseled pillows in reds and golds, alongside an ornate carved wooden armchair. Bookshelves line one wall, accented with greenery, and multiple table lamps emit a warm, inviting glow. Decorative chandeliers add a final touch of historic luxury to the room.

Library Parlor

A richly decorated parlor with strong library features, showcasing dark wood coffered ceilings and ornate wood trim throughout. A grand pipe organ stands against the far wall, serving as a striking centerpiece, flanked by vintage armchairs and a patterned red rug. Wall-to-wall bookshelves hold a diverse array of books and collectibles, with glass-front cabinets displaying fine curios. A tapestry-upholstered sofa, decorative pillows, and warm lamps create a cozy, inviting seating area. Crystal chandeliers provide elegant lighting, highlighting the historic, sophisticated ambiance. Subtle greenery accents and antique furnishings complete the luxurious, classic American look.

Dining Room Ambiance

A richly appointed dining room features tall ceilings with ornate white crown molding and a large, gleaming crystal chandelier centered over an elongated dark wood dining table. Eight matching chairs are neatly arranged around the table, atop a traditional patterned area rug. Deep gold walls create a warm ambiance, complemented by a grand mantelpiece with intricately carved detailing above the fireplace, adorned with elegant candelabras, vases, and a gold-framed mirror. To one side, floor-length royal blue drapes with gold fringes frame a tall window, letting in natural light through sheer white curtains. Decorative Asian art and antique furnishings enhance the historic, sophisticated aesthetic.

Living Room Details

A spacious living room with elegant, classical design elements. Two large white columns frame the area, complementing olive green walls and deep green drapery. Multiple large windows fill the room with natural light. A vintage upright piano with intricate woodwork sits near the foreground, topped with a brass lamp featuring a sculptural base. The room features several antique-style wooden furniture pieces, such as a plush tufted armchair, a dark wood coffee table, and rich wood cabinets. Overhead, a stained glass lampshade adds artistic flair, while multiple table lamps create a cozy, layered lighting effect.

Living Room Details

A spacious living room with a long sectional sofa in earthy tones, accented by patterned throw pillows, faces a large flat-screen TV mounted above a wooden dresser. Warm, beige carpeting covers the floor, complementing the light olive-green walls. Several framed pictures and art pieces decorate the wall with modern flair. The room benefits from abundant natural light streaming in through tall windows dressed in dark green curtains. Lamps with classic ceramic bases and neutral shades add soft, ambient lighting. A glimpse of the adjacent room reveals French doors, more traditional wood furnishings, and a sense of open flow within the historic home.

Dining Room Details

A cozy dining room with checkerboard beige and brown floor tiles and deep olive green walls. A large glass-topped dining table sits centrally, surrounded by four woven rattan chairs. The space is brightened by natural light pouring through multiple windows adorned with peach-colored patterned curtains. Numerous framed butterfly specimens, artwork, and nature-themed decor fill the walls, enhancing a sense of curiosity and history. Houseplants and fresh-cut flowers line the window ledges, radiating a cultivated, botanical charm. Ceiling-mounted spotlights add warmth, while shelves display collected curios, lending a sense of eclectic, lived-in comfort with vintage undertones.

Kitchen Layout

Spacious kitchen featuring warm wood cabinetry that extends to the ceiling, complemented by modern stainless steel appliances including a large double-door refrigerator and built-in oven. Two oversized circular ceiling lights provide abundant illumination over a distinctive island with a granite countertop and integrated cooktop, accompanied by four woven rattan barstools. Counters wrap around the perimeter of the room under large windows fitted with wood blinds, offering ample natural light and views outside. The tiled floor alternates between beige, tan, and brown squares, coordinating with the cabinetry and countertops for a cohesive, inviting atmosphere. Subtle black trim adds architectural definition.

Kitchen Island

Spacious kitchen with warm honey-toned wood cabinetry paired with stainless steel appliances, including a large double-door refrigerator. A unique, multi-hued granite countertop island with rounded edges stands at the center, accompanied by two wicker bar stools. Glass-front cabinets display glassware and colorful bottles, while decorative vases and flower arrangements add elegance above the cabinets. The backsplash and counters reflect the swirling golden and sand colors of the island. The floor features large tiles set in a diamond pattern, alternating between cream and brown. Large windows with wood blinds provide natural light, enhancing the inviting atmosphere.

Grand Foyer

Spacious entryway features a sweeping staircase with detailed white spindles and dark wood railing, curving gracefully upward. A round wooden table with a copper vase stands at the center atop a richly patterned rug, surrounded by antique-style furnishings including upholstered armchairs, a delicate side table, and ornate decorative pieces. White paneled wainscoting, soft yellow walls with gold trim, and tall archways contribute to a stately elegance. Twin wall sconces with globe lights flank gilded mirrors, while a chandelier hangs above the entry. Warm wood flooring, high ceilings, and classic molding highlight the historic character and inviting ambiance.

Grand Staircase Foyer

Opulent entryway featuring a sweeping curved staircase with dark wood banister and white balusters, covered with a patterned runner. The walls are painted a warm cream and adorned with framed artwork. Overhead, a glittering crystal chandelier provides elegant illumination. Red velvet drapes frame a tall window on the landing, complementing large decorative vases. The spacious foyer houses dark wood antique furniture, a round table with a decorative vase centerpiece, and detailed table lamps with pleated shades. Richly patterned rugs and polished wood floors enhance the regal atmosphere, while arched and columned architectural details add historic grandeur.

Grand Foyer Staircase

Sweeping curved staircase with dark wood railings and white balusters dominate the spacious foyer, beneath a dramatic multi-tiered crystal chandelier. The double-height ceiling is painted cream, with a large, semi-circular stained glass window illuminating the upper landing. Ornate rugs cover polished hardwood floors, and period furniture, including carved tables and floral-upholstered chairs, fills the space. Archways and columns enhance the sense of grandeur. Rich draperies in deep burgundy frame both windows and doorways, while antique table lamps and wall sconces provide warm, ambient lighting. In the adjacent room, a formal sitting area features intricate wooden chairs and a decorative fireplace.

Victorian Bedroom Suite

A richly decorated bedroom with Victorian influences, featuring a large wooden bed adorned with paisley-patterned, deep red bedding and matching throw pillows. An ornate wood wardrobe and carved mantelpiece with a gilded mirror above the white fireplace add opulence to the space. Warm hardwood floors are covered by intricately patterned area rugs in shades of red and green. Velvet drapes frame tall windows, topped with heavy gold valances. A crystal chandelier hangs at the center of the room, providing elegant brightness. The walls have striped wallpaper bordered with floral crown molding, complementing the historical aesthetic.

Bedroom Sitting Area

A spacious bedroom featuring a cozy sitting area with a classic leather sofa facing a decorative white fireplace. Above the mantel, a blue silk robe with intricate embroidery serves as a focal point. Two tall windows, framed by sheer lace curtains and rich red drapes, bring in soft natural light. The bed, dressed in a cream coverlet with delicate floral patterns, sits opposite the sitting area. Warm tan walls, traditional wood furniture, and ornate lamps add a vintage charm. Crown molding outlines the ceiling, which is painted deep navy with tiny twinkle lights resembling a starry sky, adding a whimsical ambiance.

Bathroom Details

A cozy bathroom with soft lavender walls, cream-colored tiles, and black tile accents lining the perimeter above the bathtub. Two large windows with venetian blinds and delicate lace curtains let in natural light, enhancing the warm atmosphere. There is a shower stall with a frosted glass door on the left, and a classic white tub adjacent to a small cabinet topped with potted plants and bathroom essentials. Decorative touches include trailing ivy, a plush towel draped over the tub, and a framed floral artwork above, adding a touch of vintage elegance to the tranquil space.

Bedroom Sitting Area

A spacious, warmly lit bedroom features an elegant seating area anchored by a curved tufted leather sofa facing a vintage rug and coffee table. The bed has an ornate wooden headboard, draped with deep red fabric, coordinating with the dramatic crimson curtains on tall windows trimmed with delicate lace. The walls are painted a golden taupe, complemented by white trim and crown molding, while the ceiling is painted deep navy with subtle speckling, giving a celestial effect. Classic wooden furniture, including a rocking chair and side tables with decorative lamps, evoke historic charm. Soft lighting and floral accents create a cozy, stately atmosphere.

Bedroom Fireplace

A richly decorated bedroom with a warm, inviting atmosphere. The walls feature muted gold and beige vertical stripes topped with an ornate floral border. The centerpiece is a white fireplace surrounded by a gilded mirror and flanked by elegant lamps and candlesticks. A regal red and gold paisley bedspread covers a large bed, complemented by classic wood furnishings, including an armoire and writing desk. Heavy drapes and sheer white curtains frame a large window, while a Victorian armchair sits near the fireplace, resting on a patterned rug. Subtle recessed and chandelier lighting adds a soft, golden glow throughout the room.

Primary Bedroom Suite

Warm brown tones and classic woodwork define this spacious bedroom. A majestic four-poster canopy bed stands center with ornate gold-and-black bedding and matching drapes. Flanked by mirrored nightstands and crystal lamps, the bed faces a vintage wooden wardrobe and chest, echoing the traditional theme. Heavy curtains along the window further the historic feel, while plush velvet accent chairs and a richly upholstered chaise lounge invite relaxation. White and gold molding, along with an ornately detailed mantle above the fireplace, add architectural refinement. The overall ambience blends historic grandeur with a sense of comfortable luxury and intimate coziness.

Bathroom Egyptian Accents

A bathroom styled with an Egyptian theme, featuring a striking pharaoh sarcophagus statue in deep blue, gold, and red situated centrally against a dark blue accent wall. The vanity area has a glass vessel sink in a deep blue hue set on a beige countertop. Warm taupe walls are decorated with framed artwork, Egyptian tapestry, and golden trim along the crown molding. Dark wood flooring adds depth, accented by rust-colored bathmats. Gold-framed mirrors and tufted beige door panels provide a sense of opulence. Soft, direct lighting highlights the luxurious and eclectic aesthetic throughout the space.

Upstairs Landing

A cozy and ornate upstairs landing area with rich wood paneling running halfway up soft beige walls, creating a warm and classic ambiance. Multiple wooden doors line the walls, each with traditional molding and brass hardware. An elegant patterned carpet in navy and cream covers the floor, complementing the old-world charm. A red upholstered chair with a decorative pillow sits beside a tall floor lamp, offering a comfortable reading nook. Framed artwork and a vintage wall mirror provide decorative details, while a gleaming chandelier overhead adds a touch of grandeur. Fresh flowers, a sideboard, and a sculpted figurine on a small table further enhance the inviting atmosphere.

Laundry Room Workspace

A spacious, practical laundry room features soft yellow walls and large rectangular overhead lighting, creating a bright and inviting atmosphere. A white front-loading washer and dryer sit side by side below a counter that extends into a deep utility sink on the left. Household supplies, detergents, and cleaning products are organized on the countertop and a paper towel holder is mounted above. Two large windows with white blinds provide ample natural light. A wooden folding table occupies the middle of the room, topped with neatly folded towels and facing an ironing board. A small wooden wall cabinet and a vase holding red flowers add a homey touch.

Bedroom Details

A spacious bedroom features sloped ceilings and warm cream-colored walls, creating a cozy ambiance. In the center, an ornate brass bed with a red patterned quilt and plush pillows stands out. To the right of the bed, a large decorative lamp sits atop a wooden nightstand. On the far wall, two windows provide natural light, each with its own table and lamp. A carved mantel with a horse sculpture and various knick-knacks, as well as an antique settee with a patterned seat, adds historic charm. The carpet is neutral, accented by a traditional area rug, with wooden dressers and classic chairs completing the vintage look.

Bedroom Corner

A cozy attic bedroom features warm cream walls beneath a sharply angled ceiling, accentuated by a skylight that brings in natural light. The ornately carved wooden bed has an elaborate headboard paired with a vintage floral-patterned comforter and neatly folded quilts at its foot. Beside the bed sits a round wooden side table with a dark lampshade, while the opposite end of the room holds a broad wooden dresser. Two decorative dolls in colorful, traditional attire rest atop the dresser, adding unique character. A small window, vertical radiator, and fan complete this charming, nostalgic space.

Upstairs Hallway

A narrow upstairs hallway with beige carpeting runs between rooms, showcasing eclectic and traditional American home decor. Along one wall sits a dark wood dresser topped with a vintage mirror and a warm red ceramic lamp, casting a soft glow. Further down, another wood cabinet holds a lamp with a cream-colored shade, adding more ambient light. A bookcase filled with books and yellow binders stands at the end of the hall. Moldings and doorframes are painted a deep chocolate brown, contrasting with cream walls. Family photographs in ornate gold frames line the opposite wall, lending a cozy, lived-in feel.

Listing Agent: Steve Hughes of The Breland Group via Zillow