31 W 5th St, Duluth, MN 55806

Property Description

Perched high on a hill on a corner lot, this incredible architecturally designed historic home with fantastic Lake Superior views was built by J.A. Waterworth (of Waterworth & Fee, contractors for the iconic Central High School). Tastefully redone by the current owner, this home seamlessly blends original old-world charm with many modern upgrades. Participating in the 2025 Duluth Historic Preservation home tour, the house was originally built as a single family home and has all the features one would expect such as gorgeous leaded glass and transom windows, bluestone/sandstone retaining walls and foundation with lilac surround, hardwood floors, and a well-appointed receiving room complete with beautiful oversized wood French pocket door and tiled fireplace surround with impressive mantle. While the original features of this home have been preserved, it now offers top of the line contemporary improvements like class 4 metal roof, copper gutters, premium Silex fiberglass windows, modern fixtures and fans, updated electrical and plumbing, off-street parking pad, and a recently remodeled third story with a living room boasting a spectacular lake view and vaulted ceiling, cozy alcove bedroom, kitchenette, and full bath with soaking tub. Energy upgrades are mineral wool attic insulation and under-roof polyiso insulation (total to R-50) as well as added insulation in multiple walls and ceilings. All this and a licensed apartment on the first floor which can serve as an in-law suite or rental income. The new owner can configure the house in multiple ways to meet their needs, and there is also future potential for an investor by turning this into a triplex (currently zoned as a duplex). The design elements of this amazing castle like home, old and new, work together perfectly to create a sense of comfort, sophistication, and authenticity rarely found today. The process of restoring this home has lovingly been initiated by the current owner and is now primed for the new owner to finalize the details. Come take a look at this spectacularly unique property! Exterior Scope of work to be completed prior to closing is in assocated documents.