“A house is made of brick and mortar, but a home is made by the people who live there” - M.K. Soni. Here’s the story of 514 Martin Street!
Lorena, Edwin, and baby Leo Daniel
Represented by Kristin McFeely
How would you describe your personal interior design style?
Earthy bohemian
If you could only choose one song to play every time you walked into a room, what would it be?
We love music, and always have a few curated playlists on shuffle to keep a cozy and mellow vibe. "Cruel Intentions" by JMSN will never get old.
How would you describe your neighborhood?
It is a gem. The neighbors have shared the block for decades and most of them grew up together. It makes for a small-town family-friendly environment, with major city amenities. It is nestled between a vibrant main street and Wissahickon Valley Park, and feels like a tight-knit community in a big city.
What was your non-negotiable when it came to finding your dream home?
We love hosting. One thing that was very important to us was having a move-in ready home with an open floor plan. We wanted a space that would be both inviting and comfortable.
What's your favorite room? Why?
Definitely the kitchen! We love cooking, making cocktails, and hosting dinner parties for family and friends. Most of the action centers around the kitchen, and has been the setting of many great memories.
What is one thing you need in your home to make it yours?
Plants, plants, and more plants. They bring light, clarity, and good energy to any space. We have had fun incorporating plants into all of the small nooks of our home.
What makes you (or your family) laugh?
Pranking each other at home, watching our son giggle, and any episode of The Office.
A day spent running around the neighborhood: what's your first stop and last stop?
The day would start across the street at Starbucks for an iced latte, and then we would walk over to Cafe Roma for the best Italian pastries. We would pick up dry cleaning from Stanton, and walk down the block to Gorgas Park. Finally, we would head back to New Ridge Brewery for drafts, and finish off the night with dinner at award-winning White Yak.
How has your home changed from move-in day?
It was recently renovated in 2015, but lacked that intimate feel. We added flooring to the basement and second floor to provide a more comfortable living space. We recently added brand new tiling to the kitchen, and added fresh paint throughout the home. We are very proud of our sanctuary, and have succeeded in making it feel like home in just a few short years.
What's your favorite memory of your home?
Hanging outside in the rope swing with Leo on our lap while sipping wine, listening to music, and enjoying each other's presence.
What was the catalyst to you purchasing a new home?
Edwin is in his last year of surgical residency and will pursue training in plastic surgery in Houston, TX. We are excited for the change, but will undoubtedly miss our days on Martin Street.
What's your favorite piece of Philly culture?
Hard to pick only one thing; we have thoroughly enjoyed the music scene, the fantastic restaurants, and the outdoor spaces.
