Faulkenburg-Arnold/Bark Home

216 Lafayette Street, N.E.

Circa 1890

Reflecting the architectural charm of Old Decatur in the late nineteenth century, this distinctive 2 ½ story home is a blend of Victorian and Craftsman design. While the home’s classically southern curved wrap-around front porch, round porch columns, and irregular floor plan are reminiscent of a Queen Anne design, the wide front-facing gable supported by triangular knee brackets are akin to the Craftsman style. Built circa 1890, this stately home stands among some of Old Decatur’s oldest surviving residences. Here, Victorian exuberance meets the easy hospitality of a front porch designed for conversation, companionship, and watching the world pass by. Widow Mrs. Virginia Pride, Librarian for the Carnegie Library, was among some of the first documented residents to live here.  Today, 216 Lafayette continues the neighborhood’s tradition of gracious residential architecture, inviting Christmas Tour visitors to appreciate the craftsmanship and enduring character of historic Old Decatur. On this year’s Christmas Tour, guests entering the home will first gaze on the unique Victorian/Craftsman blended style entrance hall with its remarkably intact front door and beautifully decorated staircase. Next, viewers will be dazzled by the formal living room and dining room each exquisitely decorated for the holidays. As guests meander through the second floor, they will see bedrooms masterfully decorated with a masculine flare. Current owners, John Arnold and Michael Bark, invite you to see their collection of comfortable yet sophisticated mix of antique and modern furnishings draped in greenery and adorned with fabulous holiday decorations on this year’s Historic Decatur Christmas Tour.