Sequoyah Hills Home Hits the Market After Four Decades
In the charming neighborhood of Sequoyah Hills, Knoxville, a beloved home at 942 Scenic Drive is officially up for grabs after the Andrews family decided it’s time for a new chapter. After more than 40 years of countless memories, James and Rosalind Andrews have packed their bags, along with their furry friend Claire, and moved to a cozy condominium to better suit their lives as they embrace their senior years.
A Glimpse into the Past
The Andrews family first laid eyes on their now-former home in the mid-1980s. At that time, they discovered it had barely changed since the Gouffon family occupied it nearly 60 years earlier. Coming from their own historic multi-unit structure in Washington, D.C., James and Rosalind viewed this house as nearly move-in ready.
James, a lawyer, and Rosalind, a chief federal probation officer for East Tennessee, walked into their new residence with plans to breathe new life into it. Over the years, they added some unique features to the home that, without intending to, mirrored their diverse lives and interests.
Not Your Average Home
Fast forward four decades later, and this large, two-story cottage-style home boasts an impressive 4,000 square feet of finely finished space. The house now has its fair share of eclectic charm and modern updates, including a massive kitchen and a stunning two-story sunroom. This sunroom, a significant addition made in the early 2000s, provides the perfect spot for soaking up the sun or reading a good book, all while overlooking the backyard filled with trees and serene nature.
Above the kitchen, you’ll find a master bedroom that offers lovely views of the sunroom through exquisite New Orleans-style metal safety railings, adding a nice touch of flair. The original part of the home is rich with character, featuring curved arches between rooms, another cozy sunroom, a built-in bookcase, and a classic fireplace mantel in the den. Outside, the half-acre lot includes a stunning bench crafted from stone that once graced Gay Street, originally brought to the home by the Gouffon family.
From Fond Memories to New Beginnings
As they prepared for this big change, James reflected fondly on their time in the house. “It was a great house to live in,” he reminisced. “If you had a football party here, it really worked!” The couple embraced their newfound life in Knoxville, proudly participating in local culture, including the University of Tennessee athletics and the Great Smoky Mountains. James even co-wrote two hiking books, which is a testament to their love for the region.
While James won’t miss the maintenance tasks that come with a large yard, or those pesky autumn leaves, both he and Rosalind agreed that they will certainly miss their cherished residence. Rosalind, who hails from New York, appreciates the neighborhood’s walkability and its proximity to Sequoyah Elementary and the bustling downtown area.
A Piece of History
The house’s history is just as captivating as its physical features. An article from 1927 reveals that the home’s construction began with the design by the Peckinpaugh Co., defining it in a colonial style. The original structure came complete with veneer brick, mantels, and other classic details that have stood the test of time. With updates like a modern HVAC system and new flooring, the home reflects a blend of history and contemporary living.
Now, as the Andrews prepare to pass the torch, their beloved home is listed at a charming $1.5 million. The house is bracing for its next chapter, eagerly waiting for its third family in nearly a century to call it home in this thriving, sought-after neighborhood that continues to grow in value and popularity.
