Must See 8 Bedroom, 6 Full Bath Indiana Victorian Charmer That Lists For Just $279,900!
In the heart of South Bend, Indiana, just across from the historic Tippecanoe Place, stands an extraordinary Victorian Charmer, that embodies the grandeur and charm of a bygone era. Once known as The English Rose Inn, this 8-bedroom, 6-bathroom masterpiece offers more than just remarkable space—it represents a living piece of local history, lovingly preserved and waiting to begin its next chapter.
The home immediately captures attention with its classic Victorian architecture—ornate trim, tall gables, and elegant proportions that speak of 19th-century craftsmanship. Stepping through the front door feels like crossing into another time, where intricate woodwork, patterned floors, and richly detailed wallpaper surround you with an atmosphere of timeless grace. Yet despite its historic spirit, the home offers flexibility and practicality for today’s lifestyles, making it one of South Bend’s most intriguing properties.
Inside, the spacious layout reveals a home designed for both comfort and grandeur. The large kitchen serves as the heart of the residence, equipped with ample room for cooking and gathering. Nearby, multiple dining areas provide perfect settings for hosting family dinners or intimate celebrations. Each room flows gracefully into the next, with tall ceilings and wide doorways enhancing the sense of openness and connection.

Perhaps the most striking interior feature is the massive brick fireplace—a commanding centerpiece that anchors the main living area. It radiates warmth and nostalgia, recalling a time when the hearth truly was the soul of the home. Surrounding it, finely preserved original woodwork glows with a deep, rich patina that only generations of care can achieve. Every staircase railing, doorframe, and mantelpiece seems to whisper stories from South Bend’s golden age.
The home’s eight bedrooms and six full bathrooms make it unusually large even by Victorian standards, offering a wealth of possibilities. Each bedroom has its own personality—some bright and airy, others cozy and intimate, many adorned with charming details such as decorative transoms and intricate trim. The bathrooms, while updated over the years, retain vintage character while meeting modern expectations for comfort.
Given its size and history, it’s easy to imagine how The English Rose Inn once welcomed guests from near and far. Its thoughtful layout and inviting ambiance made it ideal for hospitality, and that same potential remains today. Zoned for commercial use but located near South Bend’s historic district, the property offers immense flexibility: it could easily serve as a grand single-family residence, a boutique inn, a professional office, or even a mixed-use live/work space. For those with a creative vision, the options are nearly limitless.

One of the home’s most remarkable qualities is its authenticity. The original floors, wood trim, and wallpaper patterns offer a glimpse into the design sensibilities of a time when craftsmanship and detail were paramount. Rather than being frozen in the past, however, these historic features give the home warmth and personality—an irreplaceable charm that modern construction can rarely replicate.
Beyond its walls, the location adds to its appeal. Positioned across from Tippecanoe Place—a South Bend landmark built for Clement Studebaker—this property shares a setting rich in architectural beauty and historical depth. It sits close to the city’s cultural and dining hubs, offering convenient access while preserving the tranquility of a residential neighborhood. The home’s proximity to downtown South Bend also enhances its potential as an investment, particularly for those seeking a property with a proven record of commercial success.
Still, what truly distinguishes this Victorian charmer is its soul. Every detail, from the stained glass to the carved wood banisters, tells a story of elegance and endurance. It invites you to imagine life in an era defined by grace and craftsmanship, while offering the space and amenities to live comfortably in the present.
With its remarkable versatility, stunning period details, and connection to South Bend’s architectural heritage, The English Rose Inn stands as a testament to the enduring beauty of Victorian design. Whether envisioned as a stately family home, a thriving guesthouse, or a unique professional space, this Indiana treasure offers a rare opportunity to own and preserve a tangible piece of history—alive with character, charm, and endless possibilities.
Victorian Charmer
