Historic Chestnut Hill Home That Served as Studio to Celebrated Modernist Painter Undergoes Major Price Chop

A quaint estate that is tucked inside Philadelphia's storybook Chestnut Hill neighborhood—and boasts an incredible artistic and historic legacy—has undergone a significant price chop after hitting the market for a second time.

The historic home at 191 E. Evergreen Avenue was originally built in 1885 but was later redesigned for artist Arthur B. Carles, a famed American modernist painter who used the dwelling as his studio.

Having initially been listed in March for $2.3 million—more than three times its most recent 2017 sale price of $753,690—that ask has since been dropped by nearly $700,000.

While its new $1.59 million asking price is significantly higher than the city's median listing price of $279,900, for those with an eye for history, it makes the dwelling something of a steal, not least because of the art that was created inside it.

Within its hallowed and historic halls, Carles—a Pennsylvania native—brought to life the works that earned him a reputation as one of the country's most celebrated artists.

Those works have since been featured in major collections across the eastern seaboard, including the Philadelphia Museum of Art and the Metropolitan Museum of Art.

Carles lived and worked in Philadelphia until his death in 1952—and he remains one of the city's most impressive cultural treasures, a heritage that lives on inside his former Chestnut Hill studio, which is listed with Kim Whetzel of Sotheby’s. 

However, the 4,447-square-foot residence has a fascinating story that predates Carles, who later used it as both home and studio.

Originally built as a modest Victorian in a leafy streetcar suburb defined by stately homes, cobblestone streets, and the early rise of Philadelphia’s intellectual class, the property was reimagined in 1932 by the architect Edmund B. Gilchrist.

Commissioned by art collector Carroll S. Tyson Jr. as a gift for his friend Carles, the redesign transformed the house into a residence and working studio where many of the artist’s most renowned works took shape.

Today, the property remains a striking example of Gilchrist’s refined architectural vision.

Behind its stone walls and wrought-iron fencing, the home looks more European than anything else—with its decorative balconies, soaring windows, and a private flagstone courtyard. Inside, original hardwood floors and custom millwork can be found nearly everywhere you look.

The main-level living and dining rooms are ideal for entertaining, while the remodeled kitchen, complete with marble countertops, white cabinetry, and a Viking range, blends seamlessly into the home’s aesthetic of timeless design and everyday functionality.

A highlight of the home is the third-floor studio-turned-primary suite, once Carles’s painting studio.

The space still features his original drawing table, and a spiral staircase leads from here to a two-level rooftop deck, which is one of the highest private rooftops among single-family homes in Philadelphia, and comes with views of Center City.

"Once the creative sanctuary of Arthur B. Carles, it still features his original drawing table, soaring ceilings, and soft northern light," the listing states. "With open-plan living, a half bath, and custom built-ins, this space is a true retreat."

The second floor includes three additional bedrooms and a laundry room, while the rear wing features a private suite with its own entrance and kitchenette.

The property also offers two private parking spaces, a rarity in this highly walkable neighborhood, just steps from boutique shops and acclaimed restaurants. The Chestnut Hill East and West train lines are also nearby, providing direct access to downtown Philadelphia.

"Nestled in one of Philadelphias most beloved neighborhoods, this home supports a truly walkable lifestyle, just steps from charming boutiques, acclaimed restaurants, and the scenic Wissahickon trails," the description adds.