French Eclectic residential architecture in Downtown Riverside

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The Alec Morrison Home is a rare example of French Eclectic architecture in Downtown Riverside’s Historic District of Colony Heights. In the 1920’s, this style became extremely popular in America as returning WWI veterans had been exposed to, and were fascinated by, the architecture of the French countryside. This quaint, yet radiant facade has a unique mixture of half timbering, multi-light casement windows and prominent dormers protruding from its steeply pitched gabled roof which are a hallmark of the French Eclectic style. This home has an interior that’s as comfortable as the exterior is inviting. It features a charming entry ; a living room with Batchelder inspired tile hearth and adjacent dining room where the gorgeous vintage windows (as they do throughout the house) take center stage. The current owners completed a wonderful remodel of the kitchen and extended the home by adding a cozy family room. They were awarded by the Old Riverside Foundation for this work given it’s architectural compatibility and clear knowledge and appreciation for this Designated Structure of Merit. One of my favorite features is the hearth in the family room and matching front porch. The owners had salvaged bricks from the original colonnade of the Mission Inn Hotel that were removed during its restoration and repurposed them through the craftsmanship of one of our great local masons. They upgraded the home’s plumbing, electrical and hvac systems while preserving all of the elements that we have come to love about historic homes. The main level features a bedroom and en-suite bath in addition to the living room, family room, dining room and kitchen. The second level has a full bathroom, two bedrooms each with walk-in closets and a bonus room they call "the bird house" since the Orioles and finches love to hang out in the tree just outside the window. The back garden has been thoughtfully cultivated over the years and is an incredibly relaxing space. It features a variety of fruit trees, herbs and plants that attract our local birds and other wildlife and is as private as it is peaceful. There is a sparkling pool and spa surrounded by flagstone patios that are comfortably shaded by mature trees. At the back of the property there is a two, car garage as well as large and versatile studio space. This home has been cherished by the current owners for 35 years and we hope that it’s next custodian will find as much joy here as they have.