A Castle to Call Your Own: The Magic of Ashlar Hall
Address: 1397 Central Ave, Memphis, TN 38104
Main Features:
- Historic Status: National Register of Historic Places (Built in 1896)
- Space: Over 11,100 square feet of living area
- Land: Sitting on nearly a full acre (0.79 acres) in Midtown
- Bedrooms: 6 spacious bedrooms
- Bathrooms: 4 full bathrooms
- Renovations: Recently updated with modern comforts while keeping old charm
- Parking: 40 on-site gated parking spaces
- Architecture: Iconic stone exterior with castle-like “crenellated” walls
- Interior Details: Grand millwork, bay windows, and high vaulted ceilings
A True Memphis Legend
If you have ever walked through the Central Gardens neighborhood, you have likely stopped to stare at Ashlar Hall. This isn’t just a house; it’s a piece of Memphis history that feels like it was pulled straight from a storybook. Built in 1896, this stone “castle” has been a landmark for over a hundred years. For anyone who loves old houses, this is the ultimate dream. It’s rare to find a place that feels so grand yet so full of heart.
The house was originally designed for a prominent local family, and you can still feel that sense of prestige today. It has lived many lives—as a private home, a restaurant, and even a famous local venue. Now, it has been lovingly renovated, bringing it back to its former glory. It is ready for someone new to write the next chapter of its long, colorful story.
Space to Live and Celebrate
Inside, the home is absolutely massive. With over 11,000 square feet, the rooms feel endless. One of the best parts about these old builds is the ceiling height. You’ll find ceilings over nine feet tall and beautiful vaulted sections that make every room feel open and airy. Whether you want to use it as a grand family estate or a high-end event space, the layout is incredibly flexible.
The recent renovations have done something special: they fixed the important stuff like the kitchen and safety systems without stripping away the soul of the house. You still get those gorgeous hardwood floors, the intricate wood carvings on the walls, and the massive bay windows that let the sunlight pour in. It’s the perfect mix of old-world beauty and modern ease.
The Details You’ll Fall in Love With
The real magic of Ashlar Hall is in the small details. The stone work on the outside is breathtaking and gives the home its famous castle look. Imagine pulling into your gated driveway and seeing those stone towers every day! Inside, there are multiple fireplaces with classic masonry work, perfect for cozying up during a chilly evening.
There is also a sunroom and a finished basement, giving you even more spots to relax. The house even includes a wet bar and a large formal dining room, making it the best place in town for hosting Thanksgiving dinner or a big party. Everything about this home was built to impress, yet it feels warm and welcoming the moment you step through the front door.
An Outdoor Oasis in the City
Finding almost a full acre of land in the heart of Midtown is nearly impossible, but Ashlar Hall has it. The lot is level and beautifully fenced with iron and wood, giving you plenty of privacy. Because it was designed to host large groups, there is even a parking lot with 40 spaces. This is a huge bonus if you plan on having lots of guests or running a business from the property.
Living here means you are just minutes away from the best food, parks, and culture Memphis has to offer. You get the peace of a large estate with the excitement of city life right at your doorstep. For a lover of historic homes, there is simply nothing else like it. Ashlar Hall is more than a building—it is a treasure, and it’s waiting for someone who will love it as much as it deserves.
