A 1942 Brick Cape Cod with Enduring Character on Belt Boulevard

Set along a residential stretch of Belt Boulevard in Richmond, Virginia, this brick Cape Cod residence from 1942 stands as a quiet reminder of mid-20th-century American domestic architecture. With its classic proportions, solid masonry construction, and thoughtfully arranged interior spaces, the home offers a strong foundation rooted in tradition, craftsmanship, and adaptability. Measuring 1,824 square feet across one and a half stories, the house presents a layout that balances practicality with character, making it well-suited for a wide range of future possibilities.

The exterior immediately conveys durability and timeless appeal. Brick construction, a hallmark of quality homes built during the early 1940s, gives the structure a sense of permanence and stability. The Cape Cod architectural style, originally inspired by early New England homes, was widely adopted during this era for its efficient use of space and understated elegance. A composition roof complements the brick façade, while the screened side porch adds a welcoming transitional space between indoors and outdoors—ideal for quiet moments or casual gatherings.

Inside, the first floor unfolds with a traditional and functional arrangement. A spacious living room anchors the main level, featuring hardwood floors that extend warmth and continuity throughout much of the home. A masonry fireplace serves as a focal point, reflecting a time when craftsmanship and comfort were closely intertwined. Adjacent to the living room is a formal dining room, also finished with hardwood flooring, offering a defined space for shared meals and conversation.

The eat-in kitchen provides generous room proportions and a practical layout, enhanced by vinyl flooring and ample space for everyday dining. Nearby, a separate laundry room with cabinetry reinforces the home’s thoughtful design, keeping essential functions organized and discreetly placed. This separation of living, dining, and service areas reflects a layout that was both progressive for its time and still highly functional today.

One of the defining features of this Cape Cod is the inclusion of two bedrooms on the main level. Both bedrooms feature hardwood floors and ceiling fans, offering comfort and convenience while supporting single-level living if desired. A full bathroom with a tub and shower completes the first floor, serving both bedrooms and common areas with ease.

The upper level continues the home’s theme of practicality blended with character. A hardwood-floored landing area connects the second-floor spaces and features built-in shelving, a detail that adds both visual interest and useful storage. Two generously sized bedrooms occupy this level, each distinguished by recessed windows, hardwood floors, and built-in shelving. Beamed ceilings in the upstairs rooms enhance the architectural charm, adding texture and a sense of craftsmanship that is increasingly rare in modern construction.

A second full bathroom on the upper floor includes a tub and shower, making the layout well-balanced and functional for multi-level living. The thoughtful distribution of bedrooms and bathrooms allows the home to comfortably accommodate a variety of living arrangements while maintaining privacy between levels.

Throughout the interior, original details such as built-in bookcases, hardwood flooring, and traditional room proportions speak to the home’s solid construction and enduring design. Heating is provided by a hot water oil system with steam, reflecting the mechanical standards of its era, while cooling is handled through window units. Though modest by modern standards, these systems underscore the home’s authenticity and historical context.

The property sits on a lot measuring just over 8,700 square feet, providing outdoor space without overwhelming maintenance demands. Zoned R-4, the home is positioned within a residential framework that reinforces neighborhood continuity and long-term stability. Built in 1942 and offered under estate conditions, the house retains much of its original character, presenting an opportunity for restoration and thoughtful updates that respect its architectural heritage.

Located close to the broader offerings of Richmond and its surrounding communities, the home benefits from accessibility while remaining firmly rooted in a residential setting. Its solid “bones,” classic Cape Cod styling, and well-defined interior spaces form a strong canvas for those who appreciate historic homes and the stories they carry.

With its blend of original features, adaptable layout, and enduring brick construction, this Belt Boulevard residence stands ready for its next chapter—one that honors its past while allowing for renewed life and purpose within its walls.