Historic Elegance Reborn: The 1876 Ransom Gillis House, masterfully restored by Nicole Curtis
Historic Elegance Reborn: The 1876 Ransom Gillis House in Detroit
Nestled within Detroit’s historic Brush Park neighborhood stands the magnificent Ransom Gillis House, a rare architectural treasure built in 1876 that has been masterfully restored to its original grandeur. This exquisite residence, meticulously brought back to life by acclaimed designer Nicole Curtis, now proudly offers nearly 4,300 square feet of beautifully finished living space, blending Victorian elegance with modern amenities. Currently listed at 1.99 million, the home represents a unique opportunity to own a piece of Detroit’s storied past, fully updated for contemporary life.
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The Legacy of Brush Park and the Ransom Gillis House
Brush Park, once known as Detroit’s “Little Paris,” was the city’s most fashionable and affluent neighborhood during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The neighborhood’s streets were lined with stately mansions showcasing a variety of architectural styles, including Victorian Gothic, Italianate, and Second Empire, each telling a story of Detroit’s booming industrial and cultural rise.
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The Ransom Gillis House is one of Brush Park’s finest surviving examples of Victorian architecture. Commissioned by Ransom Gillis, a successful Detroit businessman, the home was designed to impress with intricate brickwork, elegant stone detailing, and expansive stained glass windows that capture and diffuse sunlight into the interior, creating an ever-changing play of color and light.
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However, like much of Brush Park, the house fell into decline over the decades, succumbing to neglect and disrepair. By the early 21st century, the house was on the verge of ruin — until Nicole Curtis and her restoration team took on the project, dedicating themselves to preserving this architectural masterpiece for future generations.
Nicole Curtis’s Vision: Bringing History Back to Life
Nicole Curtis, known widely from the television series Rehab Addict, specializes in restoring historic homes with an eye for authenticity and craftsmanship. Her work on the Ransom Gillis House is a prime example of her passion and skill.
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The restoration process was an immense undertaking that lasted several years. It involved carefully peeling back layers of neglect to uncover original features and painstakingly repairing or replicating them. Where woodwork was damaged, artisans recreated the intricate moldings and paneling. The original stained glass windows were restored to their vibrant glory, becoming a focal point in the home’s grand rooms.
Special attention was paid to retaining the home’s character while upgrading it to meet modern standards of comfort and convenience. Structural reinforcements were added for safety, electrical and plumbing systems were entirely updated, and insulation was enhanced to improve energy efficiency — all without compromising the home’s historic integrity.
Elegant Interiors That Celebrate History and Comfort
The interior of the Ransom Gillis House is a stunning blend of original Victorian details and carefully chosen modern touches. The home features three spacious bedrooms and two and a half baths, thoughtfully laid out to balance privacy and openness.
The primary suite is a masterpiece of design, featuring soaring ceilings that enhance the feeling of space and grandeur. Its stained glass window floods the room with colorful natural light, creating a serene and inspiring retreat. The en-suite bathroom balances vintage charm with modern luxury, boasting a clawfoot tub for soaking, a large walk-in shower with glass doors, and dual vanities that offer both functionality and style.
The kitchen is a showstopper, designed to evoke the craftsmanship of the 19th century while offering all the conveniences of today. Custom-crafted cabinetry with marble countertops and tall paneled doors with custom brass latches recreate the historic look. High-end stainless steel appliances and a sleek hood fan seamlessly integrate into the space, making it a joy for cooking and entertaining.
Additional living spaces include an inviting dining room, a formal living room adorned with original woodwork, and multiple flexible areas on the garden level. The finished garden floor is perfect for hosting parties or casual get-togethers, featuring a stylish bar area, an office for remote work, a home gym for fitness, and ample storage space. This multi-functional level enhances the home’s livability and entertainment potential.
The Ideal Location: Brush Park and Downtown Detroit
Location is everything, and the Ransom Gillis House is perfectly situated in one of Detroit’s most desirable historic districts. Brush Park has experienced a renaissance in recent years, with new restaurants, galleries, and shops revitalizing the neighborhood while maintaining its unique historic charm.
Residents enjoy close proximity to some of Detroit’s major cultural and entertainment venues, including Comerica Park, home of the Detroit Tigers; Little Caesars Arena, the hub for the Detroit Red Wings and Detroit Pistons; and Ford Field, where the Detroit Lions play. For those employed in healthcare or education, the Detroit Medical Center and Henry Ford Hospital are just minutes away, offering convenience for professionals.
Living here means access to urban amenities without sacrificing neighborhood charm, with tree-lined streets, parks, and community events fostering a strong sense of connection and history.
A Home Built for All Occasions
Whether you’re hosting an intimate dinner party or a lavish gala, the Ransom Gillis House provides an elegant and flexible setting. The grand rooms, high ceilings, and refined details create a sophisticated atmosphere, while the modernized kitchen and entertainment spaces ensure practicality and comfort.
The detached two-car garage is a valuable bonus, especially in a historic urban neighborhood where off-street parking is often limited. This feature adds to the home’s appeal, providing secure parking and additional storage.
A Rare and Exceptional Opportunity
Historic homes like the Ransom Gillis House rarely come on the market, especially those with such a comprehensive and sensitive restoration. This is more than a house — it’s a cultural landmark, a piece of Detroit’s history, and a stunning family home.
For buyers who value architectural integrity, historic significance, and modern luxury, this home offers an unmatched blend. It represents the best of Detroit’s past and future — a place to build new memories while honoring the legacy of a bygone era.
Property Overview
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Address: 205 Alfred St Unit 1, Detroit, MI 48201
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Price: 1.99 Million
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Bedrooms: 3
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Bathrooms: 2.5
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Finished Living Space: Approximately 4,300 sq ft
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Garage: Detached 2-car garage
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Neighborhood: Brush Park, Downtown Detroit
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