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563 Cherry Valley Rd

Princeton/Montgomery, NJ

 

Known locally as the Tulane Barn, 563 Cherry Valley Road is a rare and architecturally significant converted barn with deep historic roots tied to the prominent Tulane family, whose legacy in the region dates back to the 19th century. Originally a working dairy barn, this extraordinary 19th-century structure of hand-hewn timbers and historic brick has been thoughtfully transformed into an architecturally significant residence, where heritage craftsmanship meets elevated modern living. Constructed in the mid-1800s, the barn has been reimagined into a striking home that preserves its historic soul while offering refined contemporary comfort. Dramatic post-and-beam construction, soaring ceilings, original timbers, and walls of natural light create an atmosphere that feels both grand and intimate.

The current owners have invested over $225,000 in thoughtful upgrades and enhancements, further elevating the home’s design, functionality, and comfort while respecting its historic character. These improvements touch nearly every aspect of the property, ensuring the next owner can enjoy a truly turn-key experience while still preserving the authenticity of this exceptional residence. A detailed list of upgrades is available.

Located in Montgomery Township directly on the border of Princeton, the property enjoys immediate proximity to the university, cultural institutions, and downtown Princeton amenities while benefiting from significantly lower Montgomery taxes - a rare and valuable advantage. This makes it an especially compelling opportunity for a Princeton professor, visiting scholar, or academic professional seeking an inspired retreat just outside town without the Princeton tax burden.

Inside, the home unfolds like a private gallery. Sculptural iron staircases rise through the space like functional works of art, serving as striking architectural focal points. Their dramatic presence creates a bold contrast against the original hand-hewn timber beams, elevating the interior with a refined industrial edge that feels both contemporary and timeless.

This is not a conventional residence. It is a trophy property designed for an artist, creative professional, or discerning couple seeking a distinctive escape. The open layout, dramatic volume, and curated feel create an inspiring environment for displaying art, hosting intimate gatherings, or enjoying a sophisticated weekend residence away from the city.

Perfectly positioned approximately one hour from Manhattan and just 45 minutes from Philadelphia, the property offers the ideal balance of accessibility and privacy, making it an exceptional weekend retreat for NYC and Philadelphia buyers seeking architectural significance and pastoral serenity.

There is also exceptional future potential. The ground level, framed by over-foot-thick stone walls, original hand-hewn beams, and direct walkout access to the backyard, presents a rare opportunity to create a private gym, art studio, wine cellar, or media lounge — an inspiring extension of the home’s architectural character. Outdoors, the expansive grounds invite further reimagination, with ample space for a pool, curated gardens, terraces, or refined outdoor entertaining areas, all set among mature trees and established plantings that already lend the property a sense of privacy and natural beauty.

Set on over an acre in a peaceful Montgomery setting on the Princeton border, Tulane Barn offers a rare blend of historic provenance, modern upgrades, tax efficiency, and creative potential. A truly special offering for buyers who value originality, craftsmanship, and legacy.

• 5 Bedrooms (including 2 en-suite)
• 3 Full Bathrooms | 2 Half Bathrooms
• Two-car garage with carriage-style doors and automatic openers
• 1.34 acres of landscaped grounds
• 3,456 sq ft of finished living space
• Additional 1,338 sq ft semi-finished walkout ground level
• Annual Taxes: $20,796.46
• Originally built in 1841, structurally renovated in 2011–2012, with additional updates and enhancements completed in 2024–2025

  • Schools:

    • Orchard Hill Elementary School

    • Village Elementary School

    • Montgomery Upper Middle School

    • Montgomery High School

  • Buyer Broker Compensation - 2.5%

The History

The “Tulane Barn” is an extraordinary Princeton residence recognized with a Merit Award for Architectural Excellence by the Chesapeake Bay Chapter of the American Institute of Architects. Originally built in the early 1800s and used as a dairy and hay barn for generations, the structure was later altered - then thoughtfully reinvented when new owners chose to start fresh. Led by John Hutchison of Chesapeake Architects, the redesign celebrates the original barn timbers and exposed masonry, while adding clean-lined contemporary interventions that intentionally contrast the historic shell…

Specs & Details

Originally constructed of hand-hewn timbers and brick, the structure was masterfully reimagined into a residence of extraordinary character and craftsmanship - a renovation so artful it received an architectural award for excellence in 2012. Thoughtful enhancements by the current owners have since elevated comfort and sophistication, creating a seamless dialogue between historic provenance and modern luxury.

Kitchen

• Professional-grade appliance suite including new Wolf cooktop and Thermador wall ovens, Dacor microwave, Sub-Zero refrigerator, and ASKO dishwasher
• Marble countertops and full marble backsplash
• Statement island crafted from Bucks County soapstone
• Expanded custom inset cabinetry & LED under cabinet lighting
• New plumbing fixtures and InSinkErator garbage disposal with push button

Entertaining Bar

• Sub-Zero under-counter beverage refrigerator
• Walnut-stained wood countertop
• Custom cabinetry with decorative seeded antique-style glass doors
• Integrated lighting and pullout waste bin

Bathrooms

• Premium Villeroy & Boch sinks and fixtures
• Toto toilets
• Primary bath features a freestanding Victoria & Albert soaking tub
• Heated radiant floors in the primary bathroom

Interior Recent Improvements

• New engineered wide-plank hardwood flooring throughout the main level
• Designer wall-to-wall carpeting in bedrooms
• Custom runners on both the main and back staircases
• Freshly painted interior
• Upgraded light fixtures and custom monorail track lighting systems
• Custom window treatments
• Custom window seat in the primary bedroom with built-in cedar chest

Comfort & Systems

• Two wood-burning fireplaces (chimneys and flues conveyed “as is,” with no known issues)
• Two laundry areas (bedroom level and ground level)
• Multi-zone heating and cooling system for optimal comfort:
Zone 1: Four bedrooms serviced by a natural gas furnace located in the attic
Zone 2: Primary suite on a separate oil-fired zone
Zone 3: First floor and mudroom on a separate oil-fired zone

Additional Features

• Electric vehicle charging station (ChargePoint)
• Whole-house water purification system
• ADT security system with video doorbell
• Two-car garage with vaulted ceilings
• Storage shed

Construction & Structure
• Slate roof
• Stone foundation
• Brick and wood exterior

Take a Closer Look

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Contact us.

thepricegroupnj@gmail.com
973-255-7534

357 Springfield Ave
Summit, NJ 07901