Over the years I have run on many of the streets around Downtown Fredericksburg and often get asked why do you like to run downtown? Simple – I love looking at all the gorgeous, unique historic homes that line the streets.
Susan Moss, owner of the downtown boutique Virginia Hill, calls one of these historic downtown beauties home along with her husband, two children and their dogs. “The beauty, history and charm of my house is what won me over. The tall ceilings and the woodwork details are amazing. The location is a nice bonus as well.”
Located within walking distance of fabulous restaurants like Bistro Bethem and Kybecca, the historic federal style home was once owned by Mayor Benjamin Day and maintains the name – the Benjamin Day House.
Upon entering the foyer, I was immediately greeted by a painting of Mayor Day that was passed down from the last owners of the home to the Moss family. He is quite the regal fellow don’t you think?
The foyer also is home to a large pew that has been in the home for years. I love it! Susan told me that she thought about putting a sofa in here or using the space in a different way but she just could not part with the pew – it just fits.
In the Dining Room I couldn’t help but notice the gorgeous moulding and fireplace that are original to the home. The tall windows let light pour into the room.
Along with the beautiful antique pieces that have been passed down to the family, sweet portraits of their two children by Martha Dick of Richmond immediately grabbed my attention.
The living room once was more formal but Susan and her husband agreed that they wanted it to be a space that the family could use to hang out, watch TV and be together.
“Our home was built in 1807 so it has an old museum like feel with the woodwork detail so I want my furnishings to make you feel comfortable and at home. Come sit in a glider with me and chat.”
I love that about the space!
Combining the historic charm with the cozy furniture, the fabulous art by Brandon Newton and the fun chandelier – the room feels inviting.
“I like to mix modern with classic pieces. My husband and I both inherited beautiful old pieces and I like to mingle those in with new “comfortable/livable” pieces! Lighting is my secret obsession. I could look at chandeliers and pendant lighting all day.”
I love the little vignettes that Susan has created around the room with candles, books and a few textural elements. Fresh flowers in a home add a nice touch as well.
And those doors – incredible!
Art surrounds you in the home and it is evident how much they love it.
“My husband and I both love buying and supporting local artists. I also like to mix styles of art throughout my house. Usually the color palette is what catches my attention first.”
As I walked from the family room towards the side entry foyer and kitchen, this piece by Carter Corbin immediately made me smile. Such a sweet painting of Susan with her kids!
More fun art hangs in the side entry foyer. And I love the polka dot pillow that sits on the settee!!!
Sweet paintings of the family dogs hang on the wall in the space too. The yellow lab was painted by Anne Pierson and the black lab was painted by Ed King.
The remodeled kitchen in the home is warm and inviting with simple shaker style cabinets.
I love all the shelves to display cookbooks and other treasured items.
I’m sure that Susan and her family have enjoyed lots of great dinner conversations around their farm table. The chalkboard along with the goat painting by Ed King and the woven pendant add playful fun to the space.
The backyard space is amazing too – complete with a large redbud tree. The porch calls you to come relax, enjoy a glass of wine and share lots of laughter with friends or family! I can see why Susan loves it!
Thanks to Susan for inviting me to visit and take a tour. She and her husband certainly have taken a classic, historic house and turned it into a beautiful family home filled with many personal touches.
