Historic Craftsman Retreat on 1.71 Private Acres Near Ithaca
A Rare Combination of Character, Privacy, and Location
Tucked behind a private gate in the South Hill area of Ithaca, New York, this beautifully maintained Craftsman residence offers an uncommon combination of historic character, secluded grounds, generous living spaces, and convenient access to some of the area’s most desirable destinations.
Set on approximately 1.71 acres, the property feels remarkably private while remaining close to Ithaca College, Cornell University, downtown Ithaca, schools, shopping, restaurants, parks, and outdoor recreation. Mature greenery surrounds the home, creating a peaceful setting that feels much farther from town than it actually is.
Built in the early 20th century, the residence reflects the craftsmanship and architectural details that make classic Craftsman homes so appealing. Restored ceiling beams, original-style doors, detailed surrounds, chandeliers, wall sconces, natural woodwork, and hardwood flooring contribute to an atmosphere that is difficult to reproduce in modern construction.
At the same time, thoughtful improvements over the years have helped make the property practical for contemporary living. A new boiler installed in 2025, a new water heater installed in late 2024, roof and gutter improvements, updated appliances, and other maintenance work provide a strong foundation for the next owner.
This is more than a traditional house on a private lot. It is a property where historic architecture, outdoor living, and proximity to Ithaca’s cultural and educational institutions come together.
A Private South Hill Setting
Privacy is one of the first things that stands out about this property.
A private gate introduces the property, creating a sense of separation from the surrounding road and neighborhood. Once inside, the approximately 1.71-acre parcel unfolds into expansive lawns, mature greenery, wooded areas, and peaceful outdoor spaces.
The setting provides plenty of opportunities to enjoy the outdoors without giving up access to nearby amenities.
A nature trail crosses the property and creates a direct connection between the home and the surrounding landscape. For someone who enjoys walking, gardening, observing wildlife, or simply spending time outside, the grounds offer an unusually personal outdoor environment.
There is also a designated fire-pit gathering area, providing a natural place for evening conversations, outdoor entertaining, and seasonal gatherings.
The combination of lawn, mature trees, private paths, and recreational possibilities gives the property a distinctive estate-like feeling despite being located close to the conveniences of Ithaca.
Classic Craftsman Architecture
The Craftsman architectural style is known for its emphasis on natural materials, craftsmanship, practical proportions, and an inviting relationship between interior and exterior spaces.
This home embraces those qualities.
Restored ceiling beams and natural woodwork add warmth throughout the interior, while detailed doors, surrounds, chandeliers, and wall sconces contribute to the home’s historic personality.
Rather than feeling like a generic renovation, the residence retains many elements that connect it to its architectural past.
The result is a home with genuine character.
For buyers who appreciate historic homes, architectural details can be one of the most important reasons to purchase an older property. Features such as woodwork, handcrafted trim, hardwood floors, and distinctive room proportions can create an atmosphere that newer homes often struggle to replicate.
Here, those details are complemented by practical updates designed for modern ownership.
Welcoming Living Room With Fireplace
The living room is one of the home’s central gathering spaces.
Measuring approximately 24 by 13 feet, it provides substantial room for comfortable seating, entertaining, and everyday relaxation.
A fireplace adds a natural focal point and reinforces the warm atmosphere associated with a traditional Craftsman home.
Large windows allow natural light to enter the room, highlighting the hardwood flooring and architectural details.
The living room’s size also makes it flexible enough for different furniture arrangements, whether the goal is creating a cozy family space, a formal entertaining area, or a combination of both.
Elegant Formal Dining Room
Adjacent to the main living areas is a dedicated formal dining room measuring approximately 14 by 12 feet.
For homeowners who enjoy entertaining, a separate dining room can be an increasingly valuable feature.
The space can accommodate a full dining table while providing an appropriate setting for holiday meals, dinner parties, family gatherings, or quieter everyday dinners.
The historic details throughout the home help make the dining area feel especially distinctive.
This is the type of room where the architecture can become part of the experience rather than simply serving as a backdrop.
Bright and Functional Kitchen
The kitchen combines traditional character with practical functionality.
Approximately 12 by 18 feet, the space provides generous room for food preparation, storage, and everyday activities.
Crisp cabinetry contrasts with darker countertops, creating a clean visual appearance while maintaining a timeless aesthetic.
The kitchen also benefits from modern appliances, including an electric oven and range, refrigerator, dishwasher, washer, and dryer.
A well-planned kitchen is particularly important in a historic property because buyers often want modern convenience without losing architectural character.
This kitchen provides that balance.
Its size also allows it to function as more than a cooking area. It can become a casual gathering space where family members or guests can talk, prepare meals, and enjoy views toward the surrounding property.
Three Bedrooms With Flexible Living Options
The home offers three bedrooms distributed across the first and second levels.
Two bedrooms are located upstairs, while the third bedroom is on the first floor.
That first-floor bedroom arrangement creates valuable flexibility.
It could serve as a traditional bedroom for guests, a home office, an accessible sleeping area, or a private room for someone who prefers not to use stairs.
The two upstairs bedrooms offer additional privacy.
One measures approximately 12 by 15 feet, while the second is approximately 13 by 14 feet. Their generous dimensions provide room for comfortable bedroom furniture and additional personal space.
The configuration makes the property suitable for a variety of household arrangements, including families, couples who need guest space, multigenerational living, or homeowners who want dedicated office or hobby areas.
Home Office and Den
Modern buyers increasingly value dedicated work-from-home space, and this residence offers several possibilities.
A first-floor den measuring approximately 14 by 9 feet could function as a traditional home office, library, study, reading room, or creative workspace.
Because the home already provides multiple living areas, homeowners can separate professional activities from primary living spaces.
High-speed internet availability also supports today’s connected lifestyle.
For professionals working remotely or students attending nearby educational institutions, having a quiet workspace can be a significant advantage.
Three-Season Porch Inspired by the Adirondacks
One of the property’s most inviting spaces is the Adirondack-inspired three-season porch.
Wrapped in natural wood and windows, the porch creates a comfortable transition between the interior and exterior.
It is an ideal location for morning coffee, reading, afternoon conversations, or enjoying the changing seasons.
Three-season spaces are particularly appealing in areas with distinct spring, summer, and autumn weather because they allow homeowners to spend more time surrounded by nature without being fully exposed to the elements.
With approximately 24 by 8 feet of space, the porch offers room for comfortable chairs, a small dining arrangement, or a combination of seating areas.
Expansive Outdoor Space
The approximately 1.71-acre lot provides significantly more outdoor space than a typical in-town property.
The grounds include lawns, mature greenery, wooded sections, and a private nature trail.
There is plenty of room for outdoor entertaining, gardening, recreation, and relaxing.
For gardening enthusiasts, the open areas could provide opportunities for flower beds, vegetable gardens, native plantings, or landscaping projects.
For families, the property provides space for outdoor play and informal recreation.
For those who simply appreciate privacy, the mature vegetation creates a natural buffer around the home.
Nature Trail and Connection to Buttermilk Falls
Perhaps one of the most unusual features of the property is the nature trail that extends toward Upper Buttermilk Falls State Park.
The trail provides a direct connection between the home’s private setting and the surrounding natural landscape.
Upper Buttermilk Falls State Park is less than half a mile away according to the listing description, giving residents unusually convenient access to hiking paths, waterfalls, and outdoor scenery.
This proximity creates a lifestyle where outdoor recreation can become part of everyday living rather than an occasional weekend activity.
A morning walk, afternoon hike, or evening exploration can begin close to home.
For buyers who value access to parks and trails, this is an important advantage.
Three-Car Garage and Additional Storage
The property includes a detached three-car garage, providing substantial space for vehicles, equipment, recreational gear, tools, or workshop activities.
For homeowners with multiple vehicles, this is a practical benefit.
The garage can also provide storage for bicycles, kayaks, gardening equipment, seasonal decorations, outdoor furniture, and other belongings that might otherwise occupy valuable interior space.
The property’s blacktop driveway provides convenient vehicle access.
Combined with the size of the parcel, the garage adds functionality that is often difficult to find on private properties near a college town.
Thoughtful Improvements Over Time
The current owners have reportedly cared for and improved the property over many years.
A new boiler was installed in 2025, while a new water heater was installed in November 2024.
Roof and gutter improvements have also been completed, along with numerous other updates.
These improvements demonstrate attention to maintaining the home’s major systems while preserving the architectural elements that make it unique.
Because this is an older residence, prospective buyers should still conduct a professional inspection and review all available records, but the documented updates provide useful information when evaluating the property’s condition.
Convenient Access to Ithaca College
Location is another major strength.
Ithaca College is less than a quarter mile away according to the property description.
For faculty members, staff, students, or families connected to the college, this proximity can provide significant convenience.
At the same time, the private acreage and mature landscape create a very different atmosphere from what one might expect from a property located so close to an educational institution.
This combination of accessibility and privacy is particularly unusual.
Close to Cornell University and Downtown Ithaca
Cornell University and downtown Ithaca are only minutes away.
That means residents can enjoy access to higher education, employment opportunities, restaurants, cultural attractions, shopping, entertainment, and community events without sacrificing a private residential setting.
Ithaca is known for its combination of academic institutions, natural scenery, cultural activities, and outdoor recreation.
Owning a home on South Hill provides an opportunity to participate in that lifestyle while maintaining a peaceful home base.
Schools, Restaurants, and Everyday Convenience
The property is also close to several everyday destinations.
EAC Montessori School and Dolce Delight are both described as being less than a quarter mile away.
Nearby schools, restaurants, shopping areas, and parks make the location practical for daily living.
Public transportation is also listed among the area’s community features, adding another layer of accessibility.
This means the property is not simply a secluded country home. It offers a rare balance between privacy and convenience.
A Strong Option for Nature Lovers
Nature is integrated into the property rather than simply being something visible from a distance.
The mature greenery, nature trail, private yard, surrounding parks, and proximity to Upper Buttermilk Falls State Park create countless opportunities to spend time outdoors.
Bird watching, walking, photography, gardening, hiking, and simply observing seasonal changes can all become part of the homeowner experience.
The setting is especially appealing during autumn, when the surrounding foliage transforms the landscape into a colorful display.
Spring and summer bring green vegetation and outdoor activity, while winter provides a quieter and more secluded atmosphere.
A Home That Can Adapt to Different Lifestyles
One of the home’s most attractive qualities is its flexibility.
The three-bedroom layout can accommodate a traditional family, while the first-floor bedroom could support one-level living.
The den can become an office.
The additional living areas can be adapted into a library, studio, playroom, exercise area, or hobby space.
The large garage can support storage or workshop needs.
The acreage can be used for gardening, recreation, outdoor entertaining, or simply maintaining privacy.
This flexibility means the home can evolve as its owners’ needs change.
Why This Ithaca Property Stands Out
Several characteristics make this residence particularly noteworthy:
- Approximately 1.71 private acres
- Historic Craftsman architectural character
- Three bedrooms
- Two full bathrooms
- Approximately 1,842 square feet of living space
- Private gated entrance
- Mature greenery and expansive lawn
- Nature trail
- Fire-pit gathering area
- Three-car detached garage
- Adirondack-inspired three-season porch
- Fireplace
- Natural woodwork and restored architectural details
- Dedicated home office/den
- First-floor bedroom and bathroom
- High-speed internet availability
- New boiler in 2025
- New water heater in November 2024
- Roof and gutter improvements
- Public water and connected sewer
- Close proximity to Ithaca College
- Minutes from Cornell University and downtown Ithaca
- Less than half a mile from Upper Buttermilk Falls State Park
Together, these features create a property that combines history, lifestyle, recreation, and convenience.
A Rare South Hill Opportunity
Historic homes with acreage are increasingly difficult to find, particularly properties that combine substantial privacy with proximity to major institutions and downtown amenities.
This South Hill Craftsman offers exactly that combination.
It feels private when you are on the grounds, yet the area’s schools, restaurants, colleges, parks, and cultural attractions are all close by.
The home itself provides architectural character that has been carefully maintained while important systems have been updated.
Outside, the acreage creates a natural sanctuary with mature greenery, open lawn, trails, and space to enjoy the outdoors.
For someone searching for a distinctive historic home near Ithaca, Craftsman home with acreage, private property near Cornell, or South Hill Ithaca real estate, this residence presents a compelling opportunity.
Final Thoughts
This property is a rare example of how history, nature, and modern convenience can coexist.
The Craftsman architecture gives the home a personality that cannot easily be reproduced. The restored woodwork, beams, doors, fireplace, hardwood floors, and traditional details tell the story of an earlier era, while the updated boiler, water heater, appliances, roof improvements, and modern utilities support today’s lifestyle.
Outside, the approximately 1.71-acre setting creates a peaceful retreat filled with mature greenery, lawns, private paths, and opportunities for outdoor enjoyment.
Yet the property remains remarkably convenient to Ithaca’s colleges, downtown, restaurants, schools, shopping, parks, and cultural attractions.
It is a home for someone who wants more than four walls and a roof. It is a place where architecture, landscape, privacy, and location all contribute to the experience of living there.
For buyers who appreciate authentic craftsmanship and want a private retreat without moving far from the energy and amenities of Ithaca, this South Hill property deserves a closer look.
Listed on Zillow.
