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Thorstran Estae

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THE NORTH HOUSE

MADISON, WISCONSIN

The North House was once part of a larger Thorstrand estate overlooking the western shores of Lake Mendota.


KEY FEATURES:

  • This home (The North House) and the privately owned home next door (originally the Swenson House) were both part of the original estate and are designated Madison Historic Landmarks, listed in both the national and state registers of historic places.  

  • The style of the home is Mediterranean Revival, built with high-quality materials and construction for its time. 

  • Situated in the middle of a parkland reserved for passive recreation,* the location provides a large buffer against neighboring areas and future development.

  • The surrounding parkland is a mixture of open, grassy spaces and woodlands.  There are also some beautiful flowering plants and trees.

  • This unique location provides a tranquil oasis, while still being only 15 minutes from downtown Madison.

  • The property offers beautiful bluff views of Lake Mendota.  While there is no direct access to the lake, access for boats as well as mooring and boat rentals are available at the nearby Marshall Park boat launch.

  • For those who enjoy watching birds and other wildlife, the natural surroundings provide plenty to see (including eagles, owls, turkeys, and a family of deer.).

  • The home resides on land leased from the City of Madison, allowing enjoyment of the land and lake views without the capital investment and tax burden of owning the land.

  • The property includes a separate garage building which has a one bedroom apartment, in addition to a spacious two bay garage, adding to one’s options.

  • A Historic Structure Report (HSR) was completed in 2013 and used as a guide for the restorations and repairs done since that time.

  • Most of the recommended restoration work to the exterior has already been completed.


 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

*A 15.29 acre portion of the original estate was purchased in 1978 by the city to preserve it as a passive recreation area, within the larger Marshall Park. See Madison Historic Landmark Nomination form:

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