This enchanting cottage at 200 Carroll Avenue, the crown jewel of Bay St. Louis, is a meticulously restored sanctuary dating from 1895-1900. It beautifully combines historical grandeur with modern sophistication, sitting gracefully on a tree-lined boulevard just one block from the Bay. This stunning two-story vernacular L-galleried cottage showcases authentic period architecture, featuring a distinctive gable-on-hip roof and a sweeping wraparound porch supported by classic square columns on brick pedestals. Multiple front doors with arched transoms invite gentle Gulf breezes, and a magnificent stained-glass window crowns the front entrance. The home retains its original clapboard siding, classic 6/6 wooden double-hung windows, soaring high ceilings with original beadboard, and hardwood floors throughout. It rests on a brick pier foundation with decorative skirting and boasts charming stained-glass accents in the gable ends and a pressed metal roof. Following Hurricane Katrina, this resilient home underwent a historically sensitive restoration by its interior designer owner, preserving its authentic character while incorporating modern conveniences. Having weathered both Hurricane Camille (1969) and Katrina (2005), this cottage stands as a symbol of endurance and renewal. It features fully updated bathrooms, custom kitchen cabinetry, built-in bookcases, and restored original architectural elements. The outdoor paradise includes an expansive screened porch overlooking a professionally designed English herb garden, offering generous space for dining and comfortable seating. A delightful rear guest cottage, complete with a full kitchen and bath, is perfect for visitors or rental income. The custom boathouse/garage is an architectural gem, featuring handcrafted blacksmith hardware from Maine, custom cabinetry with abundant storage, and a charming cupola topped with an early 1900s weathervane and original hand-blown glass globe. One of Old Town's oldest and most magnificent oak trees provides natural shade and timeless beauty, and the generous lot offers ample space for a future pool and additional landscaping. This prime location offers exceptional walkability: one block to the waterfront, three blocks to the marina and boat launch, minutes to Old Town restaurants and boutiques, and steps from the historic Depot entertainment district. The property has been featured multiple times on the prestigious Bay St. Louis Holiday Home Tour, highlighted in the Sun Herald, and recognized as a cornerstone of the historic district. 200 Carroll Street is more than a residence; it's an invitation to embrace the refined coastal lifestyle Bay St. Louis is celebrated for. Here, history whispers through original hardwood floors while modern amenities ensure contemporary comfort. Whether entertaining on the wraparound porch, cultivating herbs in the English garden, or launching your boat just blocks away, every day offers a new chapter in gracious Gulf Coast living.
