I love hearing about houses that have some interesting history behind them, so I was excited to see this classic 1927 American Foursquare for sale in Richmond, Virginia, where famous siblings Shirley MacLaine and Warren Beatty once lived.
Did you know they were brother and sister? Yep!
Let’s take a look at the house they grew up in.
The House Shirley McLaine and Warren Beatty Grew Up In
Even without the movie-star connection, this is a great house. It’s nice to see how well-cared for it’s been by subsequent owners.
The listing says, “Lovingly restored and renovated childhood home of Shirley MacLaine and younger brother Warren Beatty. This classic Foursquare in the heart of Richmond’s historic neighborhood of Bellevue boasts a full front porch complete with porch swing.”
“The expansive foyer opens to the warm and comfortable living room with beautiful gas fireplace.”
According to Antique Home Style, “Versions of the Foursquare appeared in publications and plan books before 1900…[and] it wasn’t long before savvy builders simplified the shape and detail making it affordable to the middle-class. From its very beginning, it was perceived as an American type and style.”
“Initially, the most common plan was a formal entry with the stairs to the second floor, and a living room, dining room, and kitchen on the main floor. On the second floor, most plans had a bathroom in one quarter and three bedrooms, though four bedroom variants were common.”
The house has 3 bedrooms and 2.5 baths.
MacLaine has said that she grew up eating saltine crackers with Tabasco sauce for dinner.
I have a feeling this kitchen looked a lot more humble back then!
The Dining Room:
The house has 1,750 square feet and is on the market for $339,000.
The listing description:
Once Upon a Time there was an adorable house in search of new owners who will love it as much as the current owners. Lovingly restored and renovated childhood home of Shirley MacLaine and younger brother Warren Beatty. This classic 4 Square in the heart of Richmond’s historic neighborhood of Bellevue boasts a full front porch complete with Porch Swing. The expansive foyer open to the warm and comfortable living room with beautiful gas fireplace.
The Dining Room large enough for plenty of company is open to the completely renovated custom, gourmet kitchen, Gas cooking, stainless appliances and granite counters. Glass front cabinetry, built in plate rack and under cabinet lighting makes this the perfect spot to create memorable meals.
The main floor is completed with a classic tile floored half bath, archways, french door leading to the finished basement with full bath, laundry room and storage. Upstairs awaits 3 bedrooms and an amazingly large bright full bath! Out back you will discover the screened porch leading to a two tiered deck and path to the detached garage. Don’t miss the tree swing! Basement has been treated by B-Dry and warranty transfers to the new owner.
Check the listing for more photos and information.
Thanks to listing agent Paul Collins for telling me about the house.