Key West Properties: 409 William Street, Key West - So This is How the Other Half Lives

Friday, January 18, 2019

409 William Street, Key West - So This is How the Other Half Lives

The Gideon Lowe House located at 409 William Street in Key West was built circa 1866 or during the Civil War. While Florida had seceded from the Union and joined the Confederacy, Key West remained under Union control as the island was command central for controlling access to the Gulf of Mexico and merchant shipping. This Grand Conch style home is located on a block of similar prestigious homes of that era. William Street is viewed by many as one of the prettiest blocks in the historic district.

As the prosperity of Key West waned, the house became a bed and breakfast first known as the Gideon Lowe House and later as Whispers Guest House. Then the property was sold to a local group who meticulously renovated the original house and added a pool, decking, and gardens for which that owner received a ceramic star for historic preservation and renovation. When you enter the entry hall you know you have arrived at an important home. The attention to detail is evident as you make your way to the rear where the new great room, dining area, and kitchen are now located. Three sets of doors open out to the deck and pool area.

I saw this home last week during Realtor caravan. As I was walking out to the pool I overheard another Realtor remark "So this is how the other half lives!" It is. And they live it very well. Everything is perfect.

The outdoor living area will become a big part of your everyday living routine, especially in the winter when it is cold as blazes up north. The inside and outside become one when the doors are opened and guests move easily between the two areas. The pool and waterfall catch your attention with color and the sound of water falling. The colors of the house blend with the natural colors of the landscaping, the water, and sky. It all just falls together.

This home has two master suites including the first floor master bedroom with Mahogany doors which open out to the front porch. There is a large walk-in closet and huge master bath. The house has new heart pine floors throughout the house. Even tall men won't feel cramped in this home which has 10.5 foot ceilings.

The second floor master bedroom also has petite French doors which open out to the second floor covered balcony. It likewise has a large walk-in closet and equally large bath. The laundry room is located at the stair turnaround. Another staircase leads to the two guest bedrooms and bath which are located on the third floor. The front bedroom is being used as an office by the current owner. I snapped a photo of 408 William Street which I reported on in my blog two days ago not knowing I would be writing about that property a few days later. The views from the third floor are intoxicating if you love old houses.

CLICK HERE to view the Key West MLS datasheet and listing photos of 409 William Street, Key West, offered at $3,450,000. The home is being offered FULLY FURNISHED. The listing Realtor has a detailed list of the items. Then please call me, Gary Thomas, 305-766-2642, to schedule a private showing. I am a buyers agent and a full time Realtor at Preferred Properties Key West. We need to sit on the front porch and take that sofa for a ride.