Embrace A Legacy In This Timeless Historic Mansion

How do you even describe a home as special as this one? The Joseph S. Nielsen Home on Fort Street is a two and a half story red brick Queen Ann with a granite foundation that sits on nearly an acre in Draper, Utah. But the legacy goes so much deeper. Built for Joseph, a school teacher and farmer, and his wife May, a musician; this home has been a happy place for families and friends for over a century. Over the years it has evolved from a family homestead with an orchard and vegetable garden, to divided apartments, to a full and glorious restoration to a historic mansion, and then its most recent transformation to Chestnut Pines where it was the only cafe in the United States to serve dishes exclusively from sprouted ancient grains. That brings our story to present day where this singular landmark property is ready for its next chapter where you become the next steward of our story. There’s no obligation to follow a script; if the past has taught us anything it’s that this timeless home can adapt through the ages. The bones are original. That granite foundation is solid and holds 2.5 stories of red brick, a grand staircase, tall ceilings and original wood floors. Exposed brick is spotted throughout, accented by period-style doors and hardware along with bay windows that flood the front rooms with natural light. The craftsmanship connects with you a time when we built things to last, and makes you appreciate the past. Extra care has been given to keep the original character while also fully updating all electrical, plumbing, and HVAC and bringing the home into ADA compliance.

The kitchen is built for people who take food seriously; this was a farm and homestead, after all. That heritage is honored with modern updates like a butler’s pantry with additional counter space, a beverage kegerator, two sinks, a mini freezer and fridge, and room to really make use of the fresh whole foods you could grow here. Behind the main home there is a renovated cottage that houses a fully equipped commercial kitchen. Whether you continue a food-focused operation, lease it out, or keep it for your own hobby kitchen, it’s ready now.

You can still feel Joseph and May’s vision come to life in the landscape. They raised their family here, and there is an honesty to the yard that hearkens back to a simpler time. Stamped concrete makes up the patio under a large curved iron trellis. A rock pathway leads to the botanical garden, custom gazebo with idyllic hanging swings, a rock waterfall, raised garden beds, and a fire pit. Beneath the beauty there’s a new drip irrigation system that ensures every plant on the property is efficiently watered to thrive, blossom, flower, and fruit.

What you do with the property is only limited by your imagination. This home has a conditional use permit that is transferable to the new owner and has no expiration. Previous uses have included a cafe, outdoor gatherings/receptions, yoga, workshops, and wellness instruction. As you author your story it could include a salon, intimate venues, antique shop, medical, or artisan food production, to name just a few. It is zoned for both residential and commercial activity; it reverts just as naturally to a sensational and one-of-a-kind private residential estate if you’re looking for a magazine feature-worthy mansion. It is not currently on the historic registry (though it could be) so you’re free to remodel as you see fit. Four additional storage buildings, a six-car carport, and a large open corner lot with room to build a shop or guest house round out the property.

How will you help shape the heritage of this home? Come tour this near one-acre property. Feel the connection to the past. Soak up the history, then start writing your own chapter. The next story-your story-starts now.