An Enduring Icon of Denver’s Architectural Heritage
We recognize The Bliss House as one of Denver’s most remarkable surviving examples of late 19th-century residential architecture. Located at 1389 Stuart Street, Denver, Colorado, this extraordinary residence is far more than a luxury home—it is a living monument to the city’s early civic, medical, and architectural history. Built in 1892, the property reflects a period when Denver was defining itself as a cultural and economic hub of the American West.
Named for Dr. Gerald Bliss, the first Surgeon General of the Colorado Territory, the home carries deep historical relevance. Ownership of such a property is exceptionally rare, especially one so meticulously preserved and thoughtfully modernized. We consider the Bliss House not only a residence, but a tangible link to Denver’s formative years.
William Lang & Pugh: Master Architects of Victorian Denver
We highlight the Bliss House as a masterwork by William Lang & Pugh, the legendary architectural firm responsible for some of Denver’s most iconic Victorian homes. William Lang, in particular, was known for his expressive designs that fused multiple Victorian styles into cohesive, highly individualized statements.
The Bliss House is classified as a Queen Anne Victorian, distinguished by its asymmetry, vertical emphasis, and ornamental detailing. Of the many homes Lang designed, only five remain on Stuart Street, making this property exceptionally scarce. Each Lang home featured a unique symbolic motif, and in the Bliss House, that symbol is the oak leaf, subtly carved into doorframes and banister railings—an artistic signature that reinforces its authenticity and originality.
Striking Exterior Design and Landmark Presence
From the street, the Bliss House commands attention with its two-story bay front elevation and its two-story turret crowned with an open balcony. These elements define the Queen Anne style and provide both architectural drama and functional living space.
One of the home’s most celebrated features is its 12′ x 24′ covered front porch, perfectly oriented to remain shaded during summer afternoons while welcoming the warmth of morning sunlight. This porch is more than an aesthetic element—it serves as a social and contemplative space, ideal for enjoying Denver’s changing seasons.
Situated on a 9,370-square-foot corner lot, the property offers privacy rarely found in historic urban homes. The landscaped exterior includes a deck, artificial turf for low maintenance, and ample off-street parking, including space suitable for an RV pad behind double gates.
Preserved Interior Craftsmanship and Original Details
Upon entering, we are immediately immersed in the craftsmanship that defines the Bliss House. The interior showcases an extraordinary level of preservation, including:
Vaulted carved-wood staircase
Original tile fireplace
Stained wood trim throughout
Mullioned and stained-glass windows
Operable transoms and pocket doors
French doors connecting formal spaces
These features are not decorative reproductions—they are authentic elements from the home’s original construction. The attention to detail reflects a time when homes were designed as permanent expressions of artistry and status.
Natural light fills the rooms, filtered through period glass that casts warm, shifting patterns across the interior. The result is a home that feels both grand and inviting, formal yet livable.
Thoughtful Modern Updates with Historic Sensitivity
We emphasize that the Bliss House has been updated with modern systems while respecting its historic integrity. Unlike many historic properties that sacrifice character for convenience, this home achieves a rare balance.
Recent upgrades include updated electrical, plumbing, and mechanical systems, ensuring safety, efficiency, and comfort. The kitchen is equipped with brand-new appliances, seamlessly integrated into the historic framework.
One of the standout modern additions is the spa-inspired bathroom, featuring a luxurious AirSpa clawfoot tub. This space exemplifies how contemporary comfort can coexist harmoniously with 19th-century design.
Expanded Living Space in the Finished Attic
The finished third-floor attic significantly enhances the home’s livability. This space adds flexible square footage suitable for a private retreat, creative studio, guest suite, or office.
Direct access from the attic leads to the turret balcony, offering tree-top views and seasonal mountain vistas. This elevated outdoor space is both intimate and dramatic, providing a rare perspective over the surrounding neighborhood and a daily reminder of Colorado’s natural beauty.
Prime Location Near Sloan’s Lake and Downtown Denver
We consider the location of the Bliss House one of its strongest assets. Situated just three blocks from Sloan’s Lake Park, residents enjoy immediate access to:
Walking and biking trails
Sloan’s Lake Marina
Panoramic views of the downtown Denver skyline
Expansive green space for recreation and relaxation
In addition, the home offers convenient access to downtown Denver, major highways, and direct routes to the Rocky Mountains. This strategic location allows residents to enjoy urban amenities while remaining closely connected to nature.
Property Specifications and Market Position
The Bliss House offers substantial scale and flexibility, making it suitable for a variety of lifestyles. Key property details include:
5 bedrooms
4 bathrooms
4,120 square feet of living space
9,370 square-foot lot
Built in 1892
Currently listed at $1,889,000, reflecting a $50,000 price reduction as of December 2, the property represents a compelling opportunity in Denver’s luxury historic home market.
A Rare Opportunity to Own a Denver Architectural Treasure
We view the Bliss House as one of Denver’s true architectural treasures—an irreplaceable property where timeless craftsmanship, historic significance, and modern comfort converge. Homes of this caliber, provenance, and condition rarely come to market, particularly in such a desirable location.
Ownership of the Bliss House is not merely a real estate transaction; it is stewardship of a landmark that embodies Denver’s past while supporting a refined contemporary lifestyle. For discerning buyers who value authenticity, artistry, and legacy, this residence stands in a class of its own.
From Zillow