Photograph by Ross Van Pelt courtesy RVP Photography
Address: 5025 Drake Rd., Indian Hill
Price: $2,300,000
If a park-like setting in an affluent ZIP code is what you seek, look no further than 5025 Drake Rd. in Indian Hill. Its 3.14-acre lot feels almost ethereal in its peacefulness. A major contributor to this sense of serenity towers overhead. There are 10 enormous, 100-foot oak trees surrounding the property with their quiet, yet majestic, natural beauty. Listing agent and homeowner Melisa Hertzel says the trees form a powerful first impression for guests. “They look like redwoods, and everyone comments on them when they see the house,” she explains. “The lot is just incredible, with more than three acres that back up to the woods, and no other houses behind it.”
Photograph by Ross Van Pelt courtesy RVP Photography
The charm extends to the house, with a split-level exterior that has been remodeled and enhanced to create lovely curb appeal. Though white and bright on the outside, different materials are layered to create textural interest. Warmth appears in rich, dark wooden shutters that contrast nicely against white painted brick and siding. The owners built a board and batten gable above the front door. This small change adds architectural depth, creating interest where only a flat roofline existed before. They also redesigned the entrance to a lovely, arched double door that feels much more authentic in this country setting. A surround of rugged gray stone contrasts against the soft curve of the doorway.
Photograph by Ross Van Pelt courtesy RVP Photography
Built in 1960, the current owners undertook a massive renovation over the last several years. The house was taken down to the studs to complete necessary mechanical updates, modernize the floorplan into a more open concept, and reimagine the kitchen and bathrooms. Now, the interior leans warm and rustic, which perfectly suits its equestrian sensibilities, as the property boasts horse barns and a professional arena.
Photograph by Ross Van Pelt courtesy RVP Photography
Once inside, a luminous interior welcomes you. “The house is like a treehouse,” Hertzel says. “With 100 windows, there is so much natural light.” With this much pane-less glass, it ensures uninterrupted views of the lush surroundings, and a holistic connection to the outdoors.
Photograph by Ross Van Pelt courtesy RVP Photography
Rustic materials appear again in the entryway, setting the tone for the rest of the inside. Classic white shiplap, dark wood trim, and gray stone comprise the palette. The stone clads built-in planters, which were recreated as a nod to the home’s original design. Hertzel explains that, during demolition, they uncovered remnants of planters in that same area and decided to incorporate new ones into their plans.
Photograph by Ross Van Pelt courtesy RVP Photography
Straight through from the entryway, a large living room is grounded by a stone fireplace. French doors lead out to the sizable brick patio, backyard pool, and pool house. From the living room, you can ascend a short staircase which leads into the revamped kitchen. Four skylights maximize the already generous amount of natural light. The organic texture of dark beams on the ceiling provides balance to the space. More color variation appears in the soapstone countertops and unique granite on the island. Hertzel says the red tones in the granite’s veining inspired the selection of red, custom Viking appliances. They serve as striking conversation pieces, while also adding a splash of fun to the heart of the home.
Photograph by Ross Van Pelt courtesy RVP Photography
The 4,235-square-foot floorplan includes five bedrooms, four bedrooms, and a great room with adjoining dining space. Across each level, there are on-trend selections throughout, plus the occasional pop of wallpaper on accent walls. In the finished basement—which includes one of the home’s bedrooms—an easy-flowing layout allows the future owner to configure it to suit any number of needs, from playroom and recreation to a multi-generational setup. 5025 Drake Rd. offers freedom from stress in the form of turnkey convenience and a peacefulness that only Mother Nature’s towering oaks can provide.
Photograph by Ross Van Pelt courtesy RVP Photography
