Photograph courtesy Sibcy Cline
Address: 510 Corporation Alley, Mt. Auburn
Price: $1,150,000
If walls could talk, imagine the stories that an 1870 carriage house would tell; years of cosmetic changes, floorplan additions, always-evolving design trends, and every type of character that you can imagine passing through its doors. In the 1980s, the multi-use configuration was even marketed as a “mingles” home in the local papers. Just inside the entryway, the current owners framed the vintage paper as an amusing nod to the home’s vibrant history.
Photograph courtesy Sibcy Cline
Yet, through it all, the bones of the property remained solid. Its latest iteration has brought a breath of fresh European air to 510 Corporation Alley. French American interior architect and designer Laure Marianne overhauled every inch of the 3,500-square-foot space, transforming it into a chic, modern, and wonderfully welcoming family home.
Photograph courtesy Sibcy Cline
“It is next-level stunning,” says listing agent Jessica Back. “Every detail is meticulously high end.” Its unassuming exterior is crisp and tidy—a gem hiding in plain sight. Through a gated entrance, the home opens up to offer comfortable living spaces across three levels. It’s a layout that can be configured to suit a variety of preferences, making it highly customizable for the next owners. Marianne even created alternative renderings (found on the home’s Sibcy Cline landing page) to reflect this flexibility.
The interior embraces a bright, modern aesthetic. White oak flooring throughout the home features a soft matte finish that feels laid back—no unnatural shine gleaming here—and complements other natural material selections, like the kitchen’s inky soapstone countertops with matching backsplash.
Even with these modern finishes, the home’s sense of heritage has not been lost. On the third floor, original pine floors were refinished to a patinaed perfection. Elsewhere on the third floor, Marianne selected Rookwood tile to surround the original fireplace. The tile’s handcrafted texture provides a pleasing contrast against the robust, wood mantel, and also functions as a lovely homage to the iconic brand. These design choices speak to the high level of care that went into this renovation. “It’s all very intentional and highlights the historic pieces of the home but with modern upgrades and finishes,” Back says.
Each of the three bedrooms is large and light filled. Their suite-style setup optimizes privacy, conveying a true sense of a room of one’s own. Each of the three full bathrooms were carefully designed to evoke a serene, spa-like experience. Features like heated flooring, marble tile, and fluted detailing on the vanities elevate the bathrooms to a lush level.
With such a luxurious interior, one might assume the outdoor area would be an afterthought, but nothing could be further from the truth here. The property is a true urban unicorn, featuring an enormous, terraced lot that spans the depth of a full block. “It’s unprecedented outdoor space for the city,” Back says.
Between the large, covered deck, stone patio, play area, and bocce court, the breadth of the backyard can suit everyone. It’s an outdoor oasis that prioritizes relaxation and togetherness. The city feels worlds away, even though the fantastic skyline views prove otherwise. And, speaking of skyline views, the rooftop deck offers the best seat in the house. There’s room to lounge, unwind after a long day, and enjoy a drink as the city lights set the background ambiance, twinkling like fireflies.
Photograph courtesy Sibcy Cline
From its perch in Mt. Auburn, 510 Corporation Alley offers “the best of both worlds,” Back explains, thanks to the combination of its quaint street location with expansive skyline views. While the city’s appearance has changed considerably since 1870, the solid bones of this home have not. Now, thanks to a passionate owner who gave it a new lease on life, it’s well-equipped for another century in style.
