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Listing broker remarks

Nestled privately on one of Greater Boston's most coveted streets, this magnificently detailed Victorian home was restored, expanded, and completely reimagined for modern living in 2020 — and stands in a class of its own. As you enter through the handmade mahogany front door, the grand entryway opens on either side to a glorious living room and a stunning library. The first floor boasts 10'7" ceilings, two gas fireplaces with custom handmade mantels, and an extraordinary level of craftsmanship in the woodworking details throughout. The sprawling kitchen great room is wrapped in large windows, with French doors that open to the yard. Natural stone countertops, a Viking range, and top-of-the-line appliances are integrated seamlessly with the custom cabinetry. It's an exceptionally generous space that doubles effortlessly as a catering kitchen for entertaining at scale. On the second floor, an original Palladian window greets you at the landing. Three bedrooms — each with its own ensuite bath and multiple exposures — include a primary suite with marble bath. Every room enjoys a privacy that feels almost impossibly serene for a home this close to the heart of Harvard Square — a true urban oasis. The third floor adds two more bedrooms with ensuite baths, plus a spectacular home office or hangout room anchored by sweeping views. The top floor is a magical space. Eight skylights and an original half-moon window fill the room with light. This studio-like haven is ideally suited for inspiring creative work. An open staircase connects the kitchen great room to the lower level, where a playroom (or media room), mudroom, powder room, and gracious bedroom suite complete the main house. Beyond them sits an entirely separate one-bedroom apartment spanning approximately 950 sq ft, with its own exterior access — full kitchen, living and dining areas, bedroom, and bath — an exceptional arrangement for guests, extended family, an au pair, or staff. Outside, a two-car garage with additional parking easily accommodates a crowd. Mature landscaping on a level lot of nearly a quarter acre delivers a degree of privacy that is rare this close to Harvard Square. Ideally located within a quarter mile of Huron Village and BB&N's Middle School, and under a mile from Longfellow Park and Shady Hill School.— Coldwell Banker Realty - Cambridge

Key details

  • 7,893 sq ft
  • 10,237 lot sq ft
  • 8 beds
  • 9 baths
  • 1894 built
  • $1,583 / sq ft
MLS #
7⁠3⁠5⁠7⁠9⁠0⁠9⁠5⁠
Last updated
Address
68 Sparks Street
Town
Cambridge, MA
ZIP
02138
Deed (Bk/Pg)
71078 / 256

Map

Neighborhood: Cambridge

National Historic Landmark

Federally designated as nationally significant — the highest U.S. historic recognition. Section 106 review applies to federal undertakings affecting the property.

National Register

Listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Owners may qualify for the 20% federal Historic Rehabilitation Tax Credit on certified rehabilitation work.

State Register

Listed on the Massachusetts State Register of Historic Places.

Local Historic District

Inside a Local Historic District. Exterior changes visible from a public way require approval from the local historic district commission.

Local Landmark

Individually designated by the town as a local landmark. Exterior alterations require commission approval.

MACRIS Inventory

Documented in MACRIS, the state historic inventory. Informational only — no regulatory constraints.

Article 85 (Boston)

Subject to Boston Article 85 demolition-delay review, which can pause demolition of buildings 50+ years old for up to 90 days.

Ch. 91 Waterways License

An active MassDEP permit for a dock, pier, seawall, or other structure on or over a Massachusetts waterway. Many older licenses are not digitized; this record is provided for reference only.

Massachusetts Great Pond

A Great Pond under M.G.L. Ch. 91 — the Commonwealth retains public rights to fish and navigate these state-designated waters. Private docks and other waterfront structures require a Waterways License from MassDEP.

Likely Great Pond

The MLS listing describes this property as being on a Great Pond, which would be a state-designated water body under M.G.L. Ch. 91. GIS data did not independently confirm the pond name — verification needed.