Harvard House Host Your 2025 Family Gathering In Boston at This Beautiful Venue

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Entire home

Harvard House -- Meeting Center & Guest Quarters

Morning coffee or evening drink out on the front porch.

Living room with 2 couches and working fireplace

Overview
Amenities
Policies
Location
Host

Exceptional

5 bedrooms2+ bathroomsSleeps 10

Popular amenities

Dryer
Fireplace
Washer
Kitchen
Parking available
Pet-friendly

Explore the area

Waltham, MA

Bentley College
‪6 min drive‬
Brandeis University
‪7 min drive‬
Harvard University
‪12 min drive‬
Waltham, MA (WLM)
‪3 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

5 bedrooms (sleeps 10)

Blue room

1 Queen Bed

Club room

1 Single Bed

Green room

1 Queen Bed and 1 Child Bed

Master Bedroom

1 King Bed

Sun porch bedroom

1 Double Bed

2 bathrooms, 1 half bathroom

First floor bathroom

Bathtub or shower · Toilet

First floor half bath

Toilet

Second floor bathroom

Bathtub or shower · Toilet

Spaces

Deck or patio

Porch or lanai

Kitchen

Office

Balcony

Outdoor play area

Garden

Dining Area

About this property

HARVARD HOUSE: THE GATHERING PLACE--Beautiful House, Spectacular Property

Welcome to Harvard House. My name is Robert my wife's name is Tao and it its my greatest pleasure to introduce you to Harvard House.

Beautiful Victorian House, upscale and updated 15 - 20 min on 20 secluded acres, 15-20 Min from Boston.

We see our mission as not just renting you a beautiful upscale place to stay with all the amenities, but a wonderful gathering place, for you, your family, friends, and colleagues

While we all chase after our individual goals, what it is that makes us human is that we are all "Creatures of Conviviality," who enjoy gathering as a small group

We have one goal in mind whether your purpose in holding the gathering is a Small Wedding, Baby Shower, Graduation Party, Team Building Session, Making A TV Video, or just a great dinner and a nice drink

Its to do everything possible to create an atmosphere that not only delivers "Moments of camaraderie" with people who truly matter in your life, but "Moments of Happiness."

You can Cook Together, Break Bread Together Talk together, and Think Together in ways that would never happen at other venues that a pricier and less personal

I guarantee it will give you a "An All Round Better Experience than you would ever have at a Marriot, Hilton or even the Ritz

The House can easily accommodate ten or more over night guests and parties of 18 people or over. The dining room with Turkish lights and kitchen are not only stylish with beautiful curtains and furnishing but totally up to date and completely equipped

Harvard House, both the house itself and the surrounding 20 acre secluded property ISN'T PERFECT but it does have what the Chinese call "Feng Shui," amazingly good vibes that are powerful but subtle.

The property is located just 15 minutes from Harvard Square, 25 minutes from downtown Boston.

It's located on 20 acres of secluded woodlands on the Waltham - Lexington border.

The most frequent comments we get from guests are: "Wow you have a beautiful house." "What a wonderful setting." " This place worked great for us for out team." "Thanks for sharing your retreat!"

More Details . . .

The beautiful "upscale" House and landscaping make it an aspirational property"-- the kind of place a lot of people would like to live

It has fully equipped kitchen with an Espresso Machine, and beautifully appointed and comfortable living or working areas with original artwork.

There is a great 60 inch tv. and super faster internet signal for searching, the web or holding zoom meeting

There are great walking trails. Excellent value compared to hotels.

Its just a hop skip and a jump from Harvard, MiT, BC, Brandesig and Bentley graduations

It's ideally situated for those who want to run the Boston Marathon, or go to a Red Sox, Patriots, Celtics, or Bruins game

There are many spectacular golf courses cross country ski trails and seaport towns near by

Uses: The house has been used in multiple ways: A t 60-minute type segment, CEO team building, mystery theatre dinners, family get-togethers, bike race HQ, and "micro" weddings

Here's a complete list that may inspire you to reach out to us

The house has been used in multiple ways: A major TV network shot 60-minute type segment, CEO team building, mystery theatre dinners, family get-togethers, bike race HQ, and "micro" weddings with family during the pandemic.

FAMILY GATHERINGS, MILESTONES:
1. Small Weddings
2. Rehearsal Dinners
3. Baby Showers
4. Bridal Showers
5. Birthday Parties (16th, 40th, 50th, 60th)
6. Celebration of Life
7. Graduations (Harvard, MIT, Brandeis, Bentley)
8. Holiday & Seasonal Events
9.Christmas Weekends
10. Thanksgiving Weekends
11. fourth of July
12 Boston Marathon Weekends
13. Red Sox, Patriots, Celtics Game Weekends
14. Summer Camps in Boston

CORPORATE AND SPECIAL EVENTS
15. CEO & TEAM STRATEGY SESSION
16. Team Building
17. Health/Wellness Retreats
18. Fashion Shows
19. Chamber Music Groups
20. Mystery Night Dinners

My wife Tao and I go out of our way to help make sure you and your group have a great time, and a very meaningful experience.
If we can help you in any way anyway at all we will. You just have to asl

Note: The property is totally secluded and we do have external video capability for home security purposes. if you want to have a gathering or bring more guests than ten, please inquire.

Property manager

Robert Hargrove

Premier Host

Languages

English

Add dates for prices

Amenities

Kitchen

Washer

Dryer

Pet-friendly

Free WiFi

Air conditioning

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Washer
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House Rules

Check in after 3:00 PM

Minimum age to rent: 30

Check out before 10:00 AM

Children

Children allowed: ages 0–17

Events

Events allowed: family gatherings, birthday parties, weddings

Pets

Pets allowed: dogs less than 23 kg per pet (limit one pet total)

Smoking

Smoking is not permitted

Guests are required to message us on the VRBO site to set up a call within 48 hours to clarify goals, set expectations about the house, review rules.

You can have an event with a total of 18 people for free. An event charge of $850 will be charged for between 18 and 25 people. Confirm in writing

Guests are asked to present a photo of a government ID. Guests are required in the event they have an even to sign a standard rental agreement

Important information

You need to know

Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy

Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges

Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed

Parties and events (including family gatherings, birthday parties and weddings) are allowed on site. Maximum attendees: 23

Host has indicated that there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property

Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property

Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher, a first aid kit and a deadlock

Property Registration Number C0196903080

We should mention

A car is required for transport to and from this property

About the area

Waltham

Located in Piety Corner, a neighbourhood in Waltham, this holiday home is in a rural area and on a river. Harvard Square and Faneuil Hall Marketplace are worth checking out if shopping is on the agenda, while those wishing to experience the area's popular attractions can visit Museum of Science and New England Aquarium. Looking to enjoy an event or a game? See what's going on at Fenway Park or TD Garden. Spend some time exploring the area's activities, including whale watching.

View more Holiday homes in Boston

Waltham, MA

What's nearby

Bentley College - 6 min drive - 2.9 km
Brandeis University - 7 min drive - 5.6 km
Harvard University - 12 min drive - 11.7 km
Harvard Square - 12 min drive - 12.0 km
Boston College - 12 min drive - 11.7 km

Getting around

Waltham Station - 3 min drive
Riverside Station - 8 min drive
Bedford, MA (BED-Laurence G. Hanscom Field) - 19 min drive

Restaurants

‪Panera Bread - ‬2 min drive
‪Burger King - ‬9 min walk
‪Starbucks - ‬2 min drive
‪Boston Kebab - ‬2 min drive
‪Aries Noodle & Dumpling - ‬2 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is Harvard House Host Your 2025 Family Gathering In Boston at This Beautiful Venue pet-friendly?

Yes, this property allows dogs (limit 1 total) with a maximum weight of up to 23 kg per pet.

What time is check-in at Harvard House Host Your 2025 Family Gathering In Boston at This Beautiful Venue?

Check-in begins at 3:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Harvard House Host Your 2025 Family Gathering In Boston at This Beautiful Venue?

Checkout is at 10:00 AM.

Where is Harvard House Host Your 2025 Family Gathering In Boston at This Beautiful Venue located?

This family-friendly Waltham holiday home is located on a river, within 3 mi (5 km) of Bentley College and Boston Children's at Waltham. Brandeis University and Lexington Battle Green are also within 6 miles (10 km).

9.8

Exceptional

Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.

Learn more

9.6/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

9.8/10

Location

9.8/10

Listing accuracy

10/10 Excellent

Dallin E.

9 Apr 2025

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great gathering space

Our group had a very good time staying at the Harvard House. The host was very communicative and good to work with. There are many good areas for gathering and spending time with friends and family, both inside and out. The secluded nature of the property was a benefit as well. Would stay there again.

Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2025

10/10 Excellent

roanne k.

20 Mar 2025

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Warm and welcoming

A lovely gathering spot for family!

Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2025

10/10 Excellent

Martha S.

25 Nov 2024

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Thank You for an Unforgettable Weekend!

What an incredible weekend! The location and surroundings were absolutely stunning, and we truly didn't want to leave. We’re already looking forward to returning soon! Thank you, Robert, for your exceptional kindness and hospitality.

Stayed 4 nights in Nov 2024

10/10 Excellent

Ira D.

14 Sept 2024

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Everyone enjoyed it

Such a great location. So much better than a hotel room for our wedding event

Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

mitchell W.

30 Nov 2024

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Fabulous House For a Family or Group Gathering

Once again, we are so appreciative of all the comfortable first-floor spaces to spread out as a family. The kitchen is equipped to produce a fully home-prepared feast—all the utensils, pots, pans, knives, and dishes you might need. The dining room table can comfortably accommodate a very large group. Cozy beds, extra blankets as needed, and loads of towels. The host is very communicative and caring.

Stayed 5 nights in Nov 2024

10/10 Excellent

Dan p.

29 July 2024

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Family

Great home. Perfect location and host was always available to answer any questions. I highly recommend this property.

Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

Jennifer C.

19 Oct 2024

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Beautiful Boston Adjacent Home

We had a lovely Galloween getaway with my 5best friends and 1.5 year old son this October. The house and property are beautiful. It was a perfect setting for pumpkin carving, sipping mulled wine, and lazy morning strolls. Robert was so helpful in getting us set up since we arrived quite late on the day of check in. He answered all our questions and made check out a stress free process.

Stayed 5 nights in Oct 2024

8/10 Good

John R.

29 Mar 2024

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication

Family gathering spot

This was an ideal place to stay for a 3-day weekend visit. The property is magnificent. The house, though old, is well maintained and very comfortable. The central location makes it easy to access attractions in the area

Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2024

10/10 Excellent

Derek G.

20 May 2024

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Graduation 2024

Brought 8 family members into Boston for a college graduation. The house was cozy and we like the sitting areas outside. The house was big enough for privacy too. It was an easy drive in from the airport and also allowed good access to campus. My family really enjoyed the charm of the home and it will be a part of the memory of the weekend.

Stayed 4 nights in May 2024

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveller

9 June 2023

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Exactly as Advertised - lovely home and property

Beautifully decorated home on large private property. Quiet and peaceful. Close to town and historic sites. Owner is a fascinating man who made check in and departure easy and quick and was fun to converse with about whatever interests you may have. Price is great too.

Stayed 3 nights in May 2023

10/10 Excellent

Stephen B.

6 Aug 2023

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Awesome experience

We brought 3 generations into one house and there was something for everyone. A wonderful covered deck for talking. Great grounds for kids to play and explore. It was truly an oasis. The owner Robert could not have been more charming. We loved this home away from home.

Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2023

10/10 Excellent

mitchell W.

28 Nov 2023

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Another Terrific Stay

We returned to the Harvard House and had another terrific stay. Can’t say enough about the well-equipped kitchen if you are doing serious cooking. And, for a large group, the house provides an opportunity to spread out – the dining room (including a sizeable table that can seat a large group), spacious living room, and club room (with a cocktail table large enough for a 1000-piece puzzle). We also appreciate the excellent communication from the host.

Stayed 5 nights in Nov 2023

10/10 Excellent

James G.

25 Oct 2023

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Yalie at the Harvard House

I wish we had more time to enjoy the wonderful property and house, but we were in Boston for business. A clean lovely old house with ample towels, huge bathrooms and comfortable beds. Located near many convenient Waltham restaurants and stores, and not to far from Boston/Cambridge. We ate at Taqueria Mexico twice - Excellent food and Margaritas. Even though the name pains this Old Blue, we will try to book Harvard House again for next year. Thanks for a great stay.

Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2023

8/10 Good

Mary Ellen B.

23 May 2023

Liked: Check-in, communication, location

Graduation weekend

House is large and easily accommodated party of 20-25 indoors. Weather did not cooperate or we would have enjoyed large outdoor area.

Stayed 4 nights in May 2023

10/10 Excellent

Steven E., Austin TX, USA

25 Aug 2023

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Outstanding Experience

As the venue for the recuring reunion of 12 of my closest college chums, the charm and features of Harvard House contributed to the best experience we've ever had. I can't exaggerate the thoughtfulness that Robert, the owner, has invested into the amenities and beauty of the place. If your event is important, this is the place to have it.

Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2023

10/10 Excellent

carolyn r.

2 Oct 2023

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

6BR house Secluded by woods in middle of Waltham!

We used this beautiful old house as a base for our family the 4 days that included our son’s wedding. It worked out perfectly. We really enjoyed sitting out on the porch with the fall color, totally hidden from the rest of the world. Kitchen has tons of herbs and spices for cooking and some appliances you don’t often see, like a double air fryer and an espresso machine. Comfortable beds, lots of places for gathering to socialize. Lots of off street parking. Very unusual property. Would stay again.

Stayed 4 nights in Sep 2023

10/10 Excellent

Margaux K.

8 May 2023

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Graduation Weekend

The "Harvard House" was amazing. It was very spacious and the outdoor setting was fantastic. We had wonderful weather over the weekend and were able to spend a lot of time on the comfy porch as well as exploring the grounds. We were in town for a graduation from Northeastern University so we had to travel back and forth into the city and this location was perfect easy ride into Boston as well as scenic and peaceful suburban surroundings to relax in. The house it self was beautiful, old and full of wonderful art. I really liked the stain glass window in the living room. I would consider this as an option for renting again if I need the space in the future. We had six adults and one infant and there was plenty of space for everyone to have their own space.

Stayed 3 nights in May 2023

10/10 Excellent

Phyllis N., Little Rock, AR 72205. USA

9 July 2022

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Beautiful place

The house and gardens were lovely and we had plenty of room for our large family. We especially enjoyed the front porch where we could watch deer, wild turkeys, and rabbits. Boston is easily accessible, about 20 minutes, and we enjoyed a day in Plymouth and half day trips to Concord/Lexington and Salem, all short drives. The host was very helpful with suggestions for things to do, restaurants and grocery stores. He was available by text, phone and email. I highly recommend this rental and we would love to return.

Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2022

10/10 Excellent

Jim M.

5 Aug 2023

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

An amazing house inside and out!

This is an amazing property! We stayed with my my family (my wife, my son and myself); by brother’s family (3 including a 4 year old) and our mom. There was more than enough room, and all of the bedrooms were great! The outdoor spaces are ideal for socializing with larger groups too. There is a train in the center of the town that we took to Boston a few times. It’s a 20 minute train ride which worked really well for us with the kids. The property owner, Robert, is very patient and an easy person to work with in general. He really loved this place and it shows. I’d highly recommend this property if you have a large group!

Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2023

10/10 Excellent

Barry L.

26 May 2023

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Amazing experience

Harvard House is much more than a place to stay. It’s an experience. Between the expansive grounds, amazing amenities and luxurious property, it is a location where friends and family can hang out, reconnect, forge new bonds, and play! We chose Harvard House because we needed enough rooms/beds for 8 family members coming into Boston for Emerson College graduation. We also needed a place where we could host a graduation party for about 20 people. Harvard House was bigger than what we needed for sleeping space, and had plenty of room inside and outside for everyone to enjoy drinks, dinner and games. Every one of our guests exclaimed how beautiful the house was. We were surprised how the beautiful architecture, interior design and furnishings can impact the mood and energy of a gather like that. Our hosts were extremely responsive, available whenever we had a question or needed help with anything. We would definitely stay there again.

Stayed 3 nights in May 2023

8/10 Good

Patrisia M.

15 Oct 2022

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Beautiful property

The house is absolutely stunning and in a great location and very private as well. We took our two miniature dachshunds and private walks around the property were delightful. The old beautiful trees around the house attract a lot of different birds. We counted over 12 different species and owls! Beautiful barred and great horned owls! We would have appreciated it, if the owners had removed the different piles of tarps, garden tools and wheel barrows that were spread out throughout the property including at the entrance of the driveway. These piles made the garden and property look untidy and disorganized. We also felt some of the carpets upstairs needed to be professionally cleaned as well as the carpet that covers the stairs. Lastly, it would have been helpful to have hooks and cabinets for clothes and toiletries in the bathroom upstairs.

Stayed 7 nights in Sep 2022

10/10 Excellent

Margaret C.

18 Sept 2023

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Personals retreat between medical treatments

Harvard House is a gorgeous property. It’s 30 acres of open forrest with lots of space between to find new areas and topography to explore - such a rare treat, each day. The approach to the house, and the grounds closer to it are beautiful and well attended, while feeling very natural to the setting. There are also lovely out door seating areas to take full advantage of this setting. The house is unique, grand, but also a place to feel at ease, in a richly historic setting. The range of art & collections throughout the house are generous to see so close, and to sit with through our stay. The bathrooms are renovated, yet feel still back in, maybe the deco era. The kitchen is made for cooks, everything just where you want and need it to be, because this is a place you want to extend time to gather together. The beds are so comfortable, linens & towels presented like a top B&B. Robert is also very reachable, communicative & helpful. This spot does also have great potential for micro-weddings & retreats as Robert’s advertising. I think as this venue intention becomes more cultivated, this will be fulfilled more in years to come. I look forward to seeing how this blossoms at Harvard House, does with the because they’ve done such wonderful things with this one of a kid d spot thus far.

Stayed 5 nights in Sep 2023

8/10 Good

Lee P., Baltimore

6 June 2022

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

A taste or rural Massachusetts in the city

The house is set on 20 or so wooded acres above a fairly busy street, so it is not rural quiet, but the noise is not bothersome. The layout of the house is charmingly eccentric, with all sorts of nooks and crannies and odd little rooms. The stairs are a bit steep and I had a little trouble negotiating them with a suitcase, but I am in my 70s. The décor is Old New England. The kitchen is very well equipped, although all we ate in the house was breakfast. There were six of us, two couples and two singles. There is only one bathroom upstairs and one bathroom and a powder room downstairs. It was a little tight, and might be a problem for a bigger group. I would advise packing travel bath robes. The house was immaculate. Some of the outdoor facilities still needed their summer prep. Spiders had taken over the gazebo. Also it really needs a better address sign. View it on Google street view so you don't miss the nearly invisible driveway (very rural). This is a plus or minus: the bedrooms don't have blackout blinds. I like them, but another person said how glad she was the bedroom didn't have them. All in all I liked it; it was much, much better than a hotel, and during this pandemic I felt safer in it than I would have in a hotel.

Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2022

10/10 Excellent

Shelanda P., fairfield county Connecticut

13 June 2021

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

ABSOLUTELY PERFECT! LOOK NO FURTHER! !!BRIDAL SHOWER VENUE!!!

I've booked multiple vrbo and other rental properties both for business, pleasure and events. This Property was by far the best experience I have had to date! The Property was beautiful! The staff was so accommodating. And the host Robert was amazing. We hosted a bridal shower for 20 prople on the Property on Saturday . And prepped on Friday. Upon arrival Robert and his staff were on site and ready to great me. They were completing finishing touches to make sure the landscaping was perfect. I didn't mind that they were still there because they allowed me to arrive over 2 hours early to select the perfect spot to set up our tent. The house has the perfect amount of privacy. Inside the house the kitchen was perfect for us to prep all of our food and our drinks! There were two VERY clean restrooms for our guests to use. Several bedrooms for anyone spending the night. And no shortage of restrooms. The location of the house is also perfect. There is a florist 8 mins away! The also have balloons. There is a market about 5 mins away. A drug store near by. Everything you need is near by. Even though the property is close to everything you would never guess because you can't hear or see any traffic from the house!! I was a little worried that there wouldn't be enough parking for all of our guests. But the property actually has soooo much parking. We probably had about 10 cars parked comfortably. Robert was available and communicating with me weeks before the event. He sent pictures of the property, and even assisted in recommending rental companies to us. The only thing I wish is that we could have stayed longer!!! I would 1000% book the house again without question.

Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2021

10/10 Excellent

Annie B.

15 Apr 2025

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great for a family reunion

Just a perfect place to stay. We have two families, different generations, coming from lots of places. Easy to get food, easy to serve food, and they had everything we needed. We will definitely stay here next time we do this.

Stayed 4 nights in Apr 2025

About the host

Hosted by Robert Hargrove

I am an author of landmark books, CEO and Top Team advisor, and stock market investor . . . I love meeting fascinating and intriguing people through VRBO.

My wife Tao is a Little Engine of household decoration, landscaping, and an ultimate hard worker.

My son Robby is 14, an A student, a violinist in the Boston Youth Symphony Orchestra, and on an elite hockey time. (TikTok addict)

The VRBO helps pay for the upkeep of a ten-acre property and private school tuition.

Why they chose this property

It would be tough for you to find another beautiful house on ten acres of land that is as perfect for team building, small weddings, and all kinds of family gatherings.

What makes this property unique

This is a spectacular property with a great house and wooded grounds, and totally secluded. We are constantly doing everything we can to make it worthy of a five-star review.
You feel that you could be in Vermont, Maine, or New Hampshire, yet you are only a few miles from everything.

Languages:

English

Premier Host

They consistently provide great experiences for their guests

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Harvard House Host Your 2025 Family Gathering In Boston at This Beautiful Venue

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Reviews

Popular amenities

Explore the area

Rooms & beds

5 bedrooms (sleeps 10)

Blue room

Club room

Green room

Master Bedroom

Sun porch bedroom

2 bathrooms, 1 half bathroom

First floor bathroom

First floor half bath

Second floor bathroom

Spaces

About this property