828 S. Columbine Street
Listed by Josh Behr, LIV Sotheby’s International Realty
$2,998,000
5 bedrooms, 5 bathrooms
5,116 square feet
9,594 square-foot lot
When Margaux and Patrick Williamson bought 828 S. Columbine Street in 2019, they were only the third owners of the property, which was constructed in 1938. The two-story home had all the features of a well-built house from that time period, including three layers of brick, but its outdated interiors didn’t match the enchanting exterior. The couple began to put their creative stamp on the home, and after a year-long renovation, the property was revitalized to include an expansive addition, stylish interior updates, gorgeous landscaping and a refreshed layout perfect for a 21st-century family. Now proudly listed for sale by Josh Behr real estate agency, the historic Bonnie Brae home offers the chance to live in a beautiful combination of old and new.
Maintaining Historic Charm
Keeping certain elements of the home that date back to the 1930s was as important to the Williamsons as modernizing the property. All wood floors and doors in the historic part of the house are original, as are the two wood-burning fireplaces, crown molding and built-ins in the front sitting room, the mail slot and outdoor shutters. Although they didn’t keep the butterfly wallpaper in one of the bedrooms, the couple did cut a little piece of it to frame in homage to the history of the home.
Adding Space and Contemporary Touches
A 2,000-square-foot addition provided the space the couple and their two sons needed. Margaux and Patrick added a primary suite with an ensuite bathroom and an upstairs laundry, and a sizeable downstairs living area took the place of the former garage. Interior design details like the chef’s kitchen, home gym and French doors leading to the patio added modern appeal, while outdoor features like the new portico and backyard fire pit provided beauty and functionality.
Incorporating Fun Features
What was once the laundry room in the basement is now one of the most unique spaces in the home — a speakeasy affectionately known as “the tequila room.” Tucked away behind a hidden bookshelf door, the cozy space, with its yellow walls and moody ambiance, “makes you want to have a cocktail,” Margaux says. The couple took tequila shots at their 2017 wedding in lieu of a champagne toast, so this room is especially meaningful.
Enjoying the Peaceful Neighborhood
Highly rated schools and Bonnie Brae’s curved streets, canopied by dense, older trees, drew the Williamsons to the area. Nearby, the quaint park was the perfect place to relax. “It’s the sweetest one in Denver,” Margaux adds. “In the afternoon, it’s chock full of kids. In the morning, everyone walks their dogs. It’s a quiet, hidden gem.”
