Situated on a handsome residential block in Mount Vernon, 16 West Read Street is a refined mid nineteenth century townhouse that captures the architectural elegance of Baltimore’s historic cultural district while offering the scale, flexibility, and lifestyle that sophisticated urban buyers often seek in cities such as New York City, Washington, D.C., and Philadelphia. 

Originally constructed in 1857 for the daughter of the Attorney General of Virginia, the residence has been thoughtfully restored with curated and bespoke improvements that honor its heritage while supporting modern living.

A distinguished double mahogany entrance opens into a grand flagstone reception hall that immediately establishes the home’s sense of architectural presence. The entire ground level functions as a self contained suite with three generous rooms, two powder rooms, and a well appointed galley kitchen. The current owner operates their business from this level and leases the office space back to themselves, an elegant and efficient use of the home’s rare residential and office zoning.

For buyers accustomed to townhouses in Manhattan, Georgetown, or historic districts in Philadelphia, this arrangement offers extraordinary flexibility. The ground level would lend itself beautifully to a private gallery, antique gallery, design studio, professional office, or curated entertaining space for cocktail gatherings, art openings, and intimate cultural events.

The principal living quarters unfold across the upper floors, creating a light filled and private residential environment above the ground level. On the second floor, a gracious drawing room with tall windows, soaring ceilings, and a wood burning fireplace provides a refined yet comfortable living space reminiscent of classic London or New York townhouse interiors.

The adjoining kitchen has been carefully designed with bespoke cabinetry, quartzite work surfaces, ceiling height storage accessed by a library ladder, a farmhouse porcelain sink, and a six burner Bertazzoni range with professional hood. Large windows overlook the courtyard garden and bring natural light into the space throughout the day.

A beautifully proportioned dining room sits adjacent to the kitchen and opens onto a private roof terrace. This secluded outdoor space offers a rare opportunity for al fresco dining, evening gatherings, or quiet mornings above the surrounding cityscape. At the rear of the second floor is an additional bedroom or study along with a newly renovated full bath featuring a walk-in shower and curated finishes.

The third floor continues the home’s elegant arrangement of private spaces. A generous primary suite occupies the front of the house and includes a spacious ensuite bath. At the rear of this level is an additional bedroom accompanied by a beautifully curated bath featuring a walk-in shower, a restored clawfoot soaking tub, marble tile, and bespoke brass fixtures.

The lower level is currently being used for a home gym, wine cellar, storage, laundry, and workshop.

While the principal living quarters are currently arranged across the second and third floors, they could easily be reconnected with the ground level with minimal work, allowing the residence to function seamlessly as a grand single family townhouse if desired.

Additional features include new windows throughout, upgraded HVAC systems, a wine cellar, workshop, extensive storage, and a basement finished with travertine flooring. The home is equipped with 400 amp electrical service and twenty nine owned solar panels which reduce electric costs by approximately thirty percent annually. A dedicated EV charger supports modern electric vehicle ownership.

One of the most enchanting features of the property is its rare front garden. Uncommon for a townhouse of this scale, the garden has been thoughtfully curated with perennial plantings by an English gardener. While not yet in bloom, the garden becomes lush and vibrant as the seasons progress, creating a graceful and welcoming approach to the home. Mature plantings and a brick path are enclosed in a shaded inner courtyard garden along the side of the property, creating a secluded retreat that enhances both privacy and tranquility.

At the rear of the home are three private off-street parking spaces, a rare amenity in Mount Vernon, along with direct access through a rear entrance into the house.

The location places you at the cultural center of Baltimore. The home is steps from the Washington Monument and within easy walking distance of acclaimed dining destinations including The Coral Wig, Magdalena, The Prime Rib, Sotto Sopra, The Helmand, Cafe Fili, and Spirits of Mount Vernon. Private Clubs including the Maryland Club, Engineers Club and Mount Vernon Club. World class cultural institutions nearby include the Walters Art Museum, George Peabody Library, and performances by the Baltimore Symphony Orchestra, Lyric Opera House, Everyman Theater, and Center Stage.

For buyers commuting or maintaining residences in multiple cities, Pennsylvania Station is located about a half a mile away. From here, the MARC Train provides easy daily access to Washington, D.C., while Amtrak and the Acela offer direct rail service to Philadelphia and New York City. The home is also conveniently located for those affiliated with Johns Hopkins University, University of Maryland, Baltimore, University of Baltimore, and Maryland Institute College of Art.

Now offered as a Compass Private Exclusive, 16 West Read Street presents a rare opportunity to acquire a beautifully restored historic townhouse with architectural pedigree, cultural proximity, and exceptional versatility before it is introduced to the broader public market.