403 Church St

Notes from the listing agent

ONLINE ONLY REAL ESTATE AUCTION | The Crown Jewel of Downtown Sweetwater | BIDDING BEGINS TO CLOSE: Wednesday, October 7th at 12:00PM - Noon (ET) | OPEN HOUSES: Monday, September 28th and Monday, October 5th at 12:00PM - Noon (ET) | Perched majestically on an elevated lot encompassing an entire square city block, the grand brick mansion at 403 Church Street stands as a timeless sentinel overlooking beautiful downtown Sweetwater and the surrounding mountain ridges. Commissioned in 1925, this Colonial Revival masterpiece was built for high-society entertaining, grand hospitality, and expansive multi-generational family life. Widely regarded by Monroe County residents and preservationists as the architectural jewel of the region, this magnificent estate represents a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to become the next steward of one of East Tennessee's most storied and beloved properties. Enjoy gorgeous sunrises and sunsets from the property's commanding and elevated position overlooking one of East Tennessee's most charming historic downtowns. This magnificent home abounds in period grandeur and original detail at every turn. Enter off the beautifully landscaped front courtyard through the original front door with leaded glass transom and sidelights into the grand entrance foyer, where a gorgeous original chandelier and stunning staircase set an immediate and breathtaking tone. Beautiful original hardwood floors, incredible woodwork, heavy crown molding, grand French doors, and custom arched built-in bookshelves speak to a level of craftsmanship that simply cannot be replicated. The signature tight-grain hardwood floors running through the primary wings have been completely sanded and refinished to a high luster, and all historic and structural elements have been meticulously preserved throughout every phase of renovation. The main level is a masterclass in gracious Southern living, flowing from one magnificent space to the next with effortless elegance. The expansive formal living room features a gas log fireplace and adjoins a lovely Florida style sitting room. The huge formal dining room opens through French doors to a lovely side veranda. The large breakfast room features beautiful built-in cabinets, and the large kitchen is appointed with a central island, solid wood cabinets, Italian tile counters, an ice maker, a Sub-Zero freezer/refrigerator, and a small pantry. A mudroom and laundry room are conveniently accessed off the kitchen. Multiple storage and coat closets are found throughout the main level, alongside a beautifully appointed powder room. The peaceful den with built-in shelves and gas fireplace leads to the master suite - a world-class retreat designed by renowned designer and Sweetwater native Todd Richesin. The large master bedroom opens into a luxurious spa-style en-suite bathroom featuring a soaking tub, makeup vanity, dual vanities, a large walk-in tile shower, built-in storage, and a large walk-in closet. A large landing area upstairs with three closets provides access to three guest bedrooms, each with its own private en-suite bathroom. Two bedrooms feature walk-in showers, and one bedroom offering an abundance of closet space, built-in storage, and a double-sink vanity -- ensuring that every guest enjoys a truly private and luxurious experience. The third story houses a large bonus room -- a beloved and storied space that has served as a retreat for generations of children and family members throughout the home's history -- along with floored attic storage providing exceptional additional storage capacity. A huge unfinishe