The home is on three levels, and the installation of an elevator afforded access to all levels. Originally, the home was red brick; Julie had it painted white, then pressure washed to expose some of the brick, which creates a very European feel to the property. The original slate roof is still in perfect condition to this day. Inside, you are greeted by a spacious entryway that reveals one of the stairways to the 2nd floor and the entrance to the first floor mother-in-law suite. You are instantly struck by the beauty of the original walnut -floors – they just don't make them like this anymore! Next, you step into the kitchen, which was part of the addition completed in 2005. A Williamsburg blue paint color warmly washes over the kitchen/hearth room built-ins, serving as the perfect backdrop to the treelined views that peer from the rear wall of windows. It's a very bright and open room – truly the heart of the house. With the Klein boys off to college, Julie and Roger realized that the home needed to undergo another change to fit their lifestyle as empty nesters. Enter Lexington designer Shannon Totty of Ann Greely Interiors. Together, they devised a plan to take a dining room – which formerly hosted twelve – and convert it into a large family room. Part of the mother-in-law suite was transformed into a butler's pantry. The original dining room was updated with Schumacher scenic panoramic wallpaper. Next on the list? Updating the library with extensive shelving and cabinetry. Julie believes that she has been very blessed to have lived in this special home. The house has changed over time, and the Kleins now find themselves traveling to their home in Lexington and back frequently. "It has served as a stage for many roles throughout my life as a daughter, sister, wife, mother and caregiver. Roger and I were blessed with the opportunity to care for both of our mothers in this home. Life has many chapters. However, for our family, the memories spent in this home have been priceless," says Julie. The Klein home is just one of several examples of the timeless architecture scattered throughout Bellefonte. You can hear the echoes of the industry titans that built this community and the voices of the generations that have lovingly maintained and restored these residences throughout the years. A drive down Country Club Drive is definitely a drive down memory lane for me, and besides, who says you can't go home again? •
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December 2021 | TOPS in Lexington
