Home of Lewis and Cindy Penny :: 227 Furches Street

Before: After: Originally purchased in 1998 as a rental property, we are the second owners of this 1943 duplex. The duplex continued to serve as a rental until 2013 when Cindy and I decided to renovate. Having both lived in Raleigh for our entire lives, we both love and recognize the community value of Wilmont, University Park. Initially, we renovated a home on Merriman Avenue that, at one time, served as a garage apartment for a home on Clark. In 2000, we built a new home on Ruffin Street, where we lived for 12 years before deciding to sell and begin renovations on our Furches Street Duplex. We were looking to downsize, and the duplex offered the perfect solution—it provided the size we wanted while also affording the opportunity for rental income in the future. This proved to be one of the main deciding factors.

In our quest for smaller square footage, we wanted to implement custom features. This meant the complete removal and replacement of all electrical wiring, plumbing, and HVAC systems. Major interior modifications, including opening up spaces for flow improvement, the addition of a master bath, and increasing the second floor ceilings to a height of nine feet, were made. It was also important to us that our home be as green as possible. This was accomplished by installing all new windows and doors, a sealed crawl space, and an attic envelope. A free standing tub, walk-in shower, custom vanities, walk-in master closet, and frameless shower glass round-out the designer baths in the home. The main focal point of the bath is the special marble shower, which features a serpentine waterfall design. The arts and craft interior trim package sets the tone for the open floor plan. The gourmet kitchen features soapstone counters, a custom walnut bar top that opens to the family room, commercial grade gas range and custom hood, built-in refrigerator, drawer microwave and dishwasher. Exterior features include the rocking chair front porch with custom T&G stained wood ceilings, large screen porch with custom wood T&G ceilings, and outdoor grill area off the porch. Crisp autumn evenings make the custom wood burning fire pit the perfect spot to warm up and relax with friends.

Our neighbors are always welcome to stop by for a visit on the porch and an afternoon glass of wine. Lewis and Cindy Penny