2010 Featured Historic Home
Bacharach Home
115 Bay Ave. (Owned by Susan and Jim Bacharach)

The featured home of this year’s tour is a Second Empire style mansion owned by Susan and Jim Bacharach. This architectural gem sits atop a gentle rise composed of three lots overlooking Apalachicola Bay. The land was initially owned by Thomas Orman, a prominent citizen in the early life of this community. The original house with high ceilings and tall dormer windows on the ground floor was built circa 1885 by Uriah Wright, owner of the Cypress Lumber Company.

Much of the flooring and woodwork is original to the structure. The keeping room mantle dates back to the initial structure and has been a favorite of both former and current owners. The gabled tower, added in 1999, emphasizes the Second Empire style. This addition was part of a complete renovation of the home accomplished by former owner June Diehl and her late husband.

The Bacharachs have added their own decorous touches including a collection of abstract paintings, pottery and family antiques. The home is a pleasing eclectic mix of antique, modern and whimsical pieces. The neutral color palette selected by the Bacharachs provides a perfect backdrop for displaying their interesting furnishings and it enhances the openness of the home’s interior.

A lovely garden graces the back of the home and it provides a pleasant view for the carriage house/garage situated at the northwest corner of the lot. It is a virtual haven for birds and butterflies with its indigenous plantings and privacy hedges.