Farmington Hills’ Historic Gem Finds New Owners
Farmington Hills is buzzing with excitement as one of the city’s historic treasures, the Henry C. Bach home, recently passed into new hands. After being a beloved residence for approximately 25 years, this charming colonial-revival-style house is ready to embrace its next chapter.
Steeped in History
If you haven’t heard much about the Henry C. Bach house, let’s rewind a bit. Erected in a way that mirrors a classic yet unique style, this home boasts not only a remarkable architectural presence but also a rich history. According to the inscription erected by the Farmington Hills Historic District Commission in 2019, Henry Bach was the vice president of sales for the Great Lake Land Corporation. The house originally started life as an outbuilding on the Isaac Bond farm before being relocated to its current spot in 1926 to create a stunning estate for the Bach family.
Shout out to the talented Emily Butterfield, one of Michigan’s early licensed female architects, who designed this beauty. Imagine living in a home with original features like decorative plaster and millwork details—talk about stepping back in time! With a generous 3,790 square feet and four spacious bedrooms, the home is a perfect blend of historic charm and modern living, featuring three bathrooms and plenty of room for family gatherings.
Fast Paced Sale
On November 22, real estate agent Kate Chelovich listed the home, and to her amazement, it was snapped up in just two days! An offer was accepted by November 24, showcasing how quickly the real estate market can move when something as special as this comes along. Chelovich reported that the buyers were very serious about finding a historic home, and their competitive offer reflected their desire to make this lovely property their own.
Preserving the Legacy
For those interested in making changes to the property, there’s a little catch. The home is part of a designated historic district, meaning any renovations must be reviewed by a committee to ensure the historic integrity remains intact. Chelovich noted, “Doesn’t mean that you can’t, they just would want to ensure that the integrity of the history remains in place.”
This isn’t just a house; it’s a living piece of history. The previous owners, Liz and Eoin Comerford, described their 25 years in the home as bittersweet. They raised their two children in its unique architecture and made wonderful memories. Liz shared, “We’ve had a beautiful life in that home,” emphasizing their commitment to preserving its history.
Modern Touches with Historic Charm
During their time in the home, the Comerfords lovingly made updates, including adding a kitchen, breakfast nook, and even a second-floor deck—all while being careful to preserve the architectural integrity reminiscent of the original design. Chelovich praised the way they kept a strong focus on maintaining the home’s characteristics while modernizing for today’s lifestyle.
Looking Ahead
As the new owners prepare to take the reins, there is a sense of excitement about what the future holds for this historic home. Chelovich remarked on how it’s lovely to see such a well-maintained property, and being situated on a large lot makes it even more appealing for families looking to create their own memories in this charming space.
The Henry C. Bach home may be closing the door on one chapter, but it’s just beginning another, with new owners ready to fill it with more laughter, love, and history. As this iconic property changes hands, the community can’t help but feel a sense of pride for such a treasured part of Farmington Hills.
