Please note – We no longer have this property for sale.
A once-in-a-lifetime opportunity awaits with the opportunity to own this National and Virginia Historic Landmark property located in the heart of downtown Richmond. Already entitled with flexible TOD-1 zoning, the Glasgow House offers a plethora of commercial or residential uses. Previously serving as a live/work property and as mixed-use office, the spacious rooms and oversized proportions provide a great canvas for many types of commercial use including hospitality, institutional or entertainment. The brick walled garden courtyard is an urban gem for outdoor dining, hosting special events or as a gathering space. Built in 1841, this Greek Revival Mansion and Carriage House still retain the unmistakable grandeur and distinct character of a bygone era having been continually in-use since its creation and never having fallen into serious disrepair like so many other historic properties. The Glasgow House can also serve multiple uses with separate means of egress. With its incredible history of celebrated owners, famous visitors and notable significance – this amazing property is waiting for you to pen its next chapter and put your stamp on its storied and illustrious record!
The Ellen Glasgow House was built in 1841 and meticulously preserved through the generations. This estate is perhaps the best example of true preservation in Central Virginia. Step past the central portico and the stately Doric columns back in time within this 19th century masterpiece. The Egyptian-style foyer leaves you breathless. The original gas-lit chandelier is reflected in a stunning Madison mirror, drawing your eye up towards classic Greek Revival touches: soaring 14-foot ceilings with floral medallions unique in each room, acanthus leaf pilasters, and cove pediments accenting the windows and doors. Discover the century-old wallpaper that Pulitzer Prize winning author Ellen Glasgow installed in her writing room, where all but one of her iconic books were penned. Thirteen fireplaces, each with their own ornate mantle, offer warmth, comfort, and intrigue. Beyond the generous covered rear porch is a lush and green courtyard, a true rarity in the heart of downtown.
An excellent office space, hospitality venue or mixed-use property with numerous options to configure the main house as well as the Addition, English Basement and carriage house for multiple uses or multiple tenants. The adjacent large surface parking lot is also available and provides ample parking and could be further improved or developed for further benefit.
1 west main street | historic Greek revival
Some TOD-1 Zoning Approved Uses
- Art galleries.
- Banks, savings and loan office
- Breweries
- Catering businesses
- Dwelling units
- Grocery stores, convenience stores and specialty food and beverage stores
- Hospitals
- Hotel
- Libraries, museums, schools
- Laboratories and research facilities
- Manufacturing, warehouse, and distribution uses of food and beverages
- Office supply
- Offices
- Service businesses including beauty salons, health spas, fitness centers, dance studios, photography studios and similar establishments.
- Pet shops, veterinary clinics and animal hospitals
- Professional, business and vocational school
- Recreation and entertainment uses, including theaters and museums
- Restaurants, tearooms, cafes, delicatessens, ice cream parlors and similar food and beverage service establishments, including catering businesses and entertainment in conjunction therewith
- Retail stores and shops including food and beverage sales
- Uses owned or operated by a governmental agency
- Short-term rentals
The Square Gray House at 1 West Main Street is a beautifully-preserved Greek Revival with features reminiscent of the Virginia State Capitol with the same construction and methods as employed by Thomas Jefferson.
“The house is in the most perfect condition of any of the remaining Greek Revival mansions.”
Mary Wingfield Scott
1 West Main Street is ideally located on a corner in Monroe Ward and in the heart of downtown Richmond, only a block away from the historic Jefferson Hotel, the Downtown YMCA, the Richmond Public Library, and numerous restaurants and breweries as well as Canal Walk and the James River park system.
The generous outdoor space behind the property provides a rare, landscaped retreat from the city. High brick walls surround the peaceful garden.
Upstairs is the vibrant blue room, one of several living spaces throughout the home, featuring an elaborate marble fireplace, built-in wooden shelves, and high ceilings:
Two of the six large bedrooms, featuring hardwood floors, marble fireplaces and large decorated windows:
