The Iconic Alfred H Beach House

Property Description

The Alfred H. Beach House - A Queen Anne Victorian Masterpiece! Step into a living piece of history with Escondido's most iconic Queen Anne Victorian estate. Built in 1896 and meticulously restored, this 4-bedroom, 3-bathroom residence offers 3,067 sq ft of elegant living on a beautifully landscaped corner lot in the Old Escondido Historic District. Designated on the National Register of Historic Places and under the Mills Act, this landmark property offers significant property tax savings. Rich in original detail, the home features hand-carved woodwork, stained-glass windows, period appropriate chandeliers, and an extensive collection of Bradbury and Bradbury hand-printed wallpaper--the largest known in a private residence nationwide. Enjoy a formal double parlor, grand dining room, and chef's kitchen with a La Cornue range and Carrara marble counters. Outside, manicured gardens, a custom Victorian gazebo, and imported Italian fountain complete this one-of-a-kind retreat. Just blocks from Historic Grand Avenue, dining, shopping, and Escondido's thriving arts scene. A rare opportunity to own and preserve a crown jewel of Southern California history. The Alfred H. Beach House is more than a home--it's a meticulously preserved architectural treasure that transports you to another era. This Queen Anne Victorian estate has stood proudly for over a century, lovingly cared for and thoughtfully enhanced by stewards who honored its past while preparing it for the future. This residence is a textbook example of Victorian craftsmanship at its finest, featuring asymmetrical facades, elaborate gables, and ornamental spindles. The property has been featured in magazines, walking tours, and historic registers, solidifying its reputation as one of Escondido's most iconic homes. Inside, every corner tells a story. From the restored vintage chandeliers to the inlaid hardwood floors and intricate crown molding, the home strikes the perfect balance between period authenticity and modern-day comfort. The thoughtful preservation includes: * Over 100 hand-printed wallpaper panels from Bradbury and Bradbury, an artisan studio known for museum-quality historical reproductions. * Stained and leaded glass windows, many original, offering soft natural light and color throughout the day. * A formal double parlor with pocket doors--ideal for entertaining or simply basking in the quiet charm of the era. The chef's kitchen is a rare find in a historic home. Centered around a stunning La Cornue range, it also features custom cabinetry, Carrara marble countertops, a farmhouse sink, and high-end appliances that honor the home's style while serving modern functionality. Upstairs, you'll find four generous bedrooms--including a turret room that feels like a page out of a storybook--and a charming blend of antique and updated bathrooms with classic clawfoot tubs and pedestal sinks. The landscaped half-acre lot is a true sanctuary. Wander the stone pathways through manicured gardens, enjoy tea beneath the award-winning Swiss Victorian gazebo, or listen to the tranquil sounds of the Italian-imported fountain. The detached garage, styled to match the home, offers bonus space for a workshop, art studio, or additional storage. Key property benefits: * Mills Act designation = substantial tax savings * National Register of Historic Places listing = long-term value and prestige * Impeccably maintained with recent upgrades, including roofing, paint, and HVAC *Period-style details including Eastlake hardware, push-button light switches, and vintage light fixtures. Whether you're a preservationist, a luxury buyer looking for character, or simply someone who appreciates the artistry of a bygone era, this home is unlike anything else on the market. This is not just a place to live-it's a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to own a legacy.