15 Hodge Road,  Princeton NJ, 08540

The award-winning restoration of "Westland", once the beloved home of PresidentGrover Cleveland, brought plaster-detailed ceilings, carved mantels and oversizedwindows back to a level of magnificence that would undoubtedly please the Jersey-bornCommander in Chief. Yet this gloriously bright home is far from suspended in time. Themodern sensibilities of the current owners prove that fresh, fun and functional cansuccessfully go hand-in-hand with stately ornamentation. The 1.57-acre grounds alsosupport a leisurely lifestyle with a renovated pool, covered porch and 3-car garage toone side. While a profusion of hydrangea blooms bring lively color to the whole property,the formal garden extending from a broad bluestone patio is an especially captivatingspot for summertime soirees. Inside, ceilings rise well over 12-feet, but feel even loftierabove clean white walls washed in sunlight. Most rooms are large and versatile, yetthere are spots to steal away for conversation or a cocktail. Some may choose to usethe library off the family room as a bar or create a breakfast nook in the sunroom linedwith gracefully arched windows. While the kitchen feels simply timeless with brilliantwhite cabinetry and natural marble, a custom steel hood over an enormous Viking rangeshows it can stand up to the demands of a serious chef. A nearby mud entry withcubbies and a half-bath keeps wet feet and backpacks in check. Accessible by twostaircases, the second level is enchanting in its own right with five bedrooms boastingfeatures like built-ins and fireplaces. The primary suite also offers walk-in closets, one fitfor a queen with a stunning chandelier. Work, play, exercise and host extra holidayguests on the airy top floor, complete with its own bathroom, a walk-in cedar closet andsome of the prettiest windows in the whole house. There are so many reasons to fallhead over heels for history-rich Westland, but perhaps the best part is its amazingproximity to Princeton destinations. The library, Palmer Square, The Arts Council, theYMCA and, of course, campus are a pleasant stroll from the gracious front porch.