130 Stockton St

Anyone entering Princeton from the west can't help but ponder the origins of this storybook stone cottage behind a prolific hedge of roses. The Joseph Olden House dates back to 1760 and has been twice enlarged and enhanced by internationally celebrated architects, who never overwhelmed the charm of the original dwelling. In order to serve Guernsey Hall as the estate's caretaker's cottage, John Notman added the dining room and kitchen, now completely high-end with polished granite surrounding Miele, Fisher Paykel, and SubZero appliances. The skylit breakfast room and grand living room are later additions by William Short. A full bath tiled in marble basketweave serves the first floor, including a bedroom/study with deep windows overlooking the covered porch. Beneath slate-capped gothic gables, two more bedrooms and dressing room share a second elegant bath. The deep lot includes a maze of brick ruins, once greenhouses, now an inspiring backdrop for the avid gardener with potential for further living space.