Clarence Brown House, Toledo

The Clarence Brown House, built around 1903, is an exquisite example of Tudor Revival architecture. Designed by Norval Bacon, this mansion replaced the original structure that was destroyed by fire. The house stands out with its distinctive orange Roman brick base, which provides a solid and warm foundation for the rest of the structure. The upper floors are clad in stucco and feature classic half-timbering, a hallmark of the Tudor Revival style, giving the house a charming, old-world appearance.

Prominently located in the Old West End Historic District, the Clarence Brown House adds significant historical and architectural value to the area. The house features a variety of intricate details, including casement windows that allow ample natural light and enhance its aesthetic appeal. The gabled roof and the vaulted wall dormer with an oxeye window on the front facade are particularly striking, adding to the building's picturesque quality. The porch, supported by brick piers and adorned with ornate decorative trim, invites visitors to appreciate its architectural beauty up close.

One of the house's most distinctive features is the two-story bay window located below the double gable on the front facade, which not only enhances the exterior's visual appeal but also allows for expansive views from within. The use of stone trim throughout the exterior adds a touch of elegance and sophistication, complementing the overall Tudor Revival style. As a contributing structure in the Old West End Historic District, which was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1973 and expanded in 1984, the Clarence Brown House is an important piece of Toledo's architectural heritage.