The mature, tree-lined streets of Claverach Park in Clayton are enough to draw anybody in. Add to that the beautiful older homes that fill the spaces in between, and there is no need to ask why it’s such a desirable location. About 18 years ago, Dr. Gregory Gabliani and his wife, Jacqueline, were looking for a walkable neighborhood and good schools. They found both in their home on Ridgemoor Drive.
“We were living in Creve Coeur at the time with our oldest daughter and a second on the way,” Gabliani says. “Clayton is known for its schools, and this area is incredibly beautiful.” The couple was attracted to the older home for various reasons, one being its prime location across from Oak Knoll Park. Also, it had been only partially renovated, so they liked knowing they could do various other projects to make it their own. “We re-tiled the roof, put in all new copper gutters, redid the family room, the bathroom and closet by the front door, and added a nice deck,” Gabliani notes.
They also made sure to maintain original characteristics of the home that made it unique, like the stone, woodwork and stained glass windows. “We did things that aren’t as noticeable, too, like fixing the drainage system in the basement and raising the ductwork to make it a usable space,” he says. “We also built a large cedar closet downstairs, which is spacious enough to add a guest room.” Their favorite area of the home was the family room and kitchen. “Both spaces blend together,” Gabliani says. “We would almost always eat at the large marble slab table and then go down to the couch to hang out.” He says the intimate, friendly space was perfect for their small gatherings of friends and family. The home’s large, open spaces and endless supply of natural light also make it ideal for entertaining.
Now that their daughters are grown and out of the house, the couple wants a newer, more manageable space for two. But they will miss their home’s accessibility to the surrounding area. “My wife and I used to run down Wydown to Forest Park, and we always walked to one of our favorite restaurants, Olympia, or to the Esquire to see a movie. It’s such a beautiful spot.”
listing price | $1,095,000
listing agent | robb partners of keller williams realty-st. louis
Photos: Reed Radcliffe of Triple R Photography