Clifton Homeowners Welcome Visitors

Ticket holders for Thursday's Clifton Home Tour were treated to the whimsy and charm of Michelle and Jeff Stein's 1902s-style home on wooded Dell Avenue.

The couple purchased their home ten years ago. Jeff, a Northern Virginia native, "convinced me to move here," according to Michelle. 

Michelle is originally from California, but was living in Fort Lauderdale when the couple met. 

"I lived in an urban area and did not want to live in the woods," Michelle said. "Clifton is urban, but tiny urban."

The Steins were attracted to the home for its location. Jeff is the Commissioner of Southwestern Youth Association soccer and the home sits just a few miles from Kincheloe Field.

The home has undergone some major changes since the couple and their two children moved in ten years ago.  At the time of purchase, the home was a modest 1,200 square feet and had only one bathroom for the couple and Jeff's then adolescent children, Aaron and Mimi. 

"Not enough for four," Michelle said. "It forced us to be together for a while and that was a great thing."

Within about two years, the couple began renovations and building additions that added additional bedrooms, bathrooms and a family room.

Michelle conceded that owning a historic home presents certain challenges. "Everything is crooked and the flow is a bit unusual since the rooms are repurposed," as the Stein children are now 23 and 21.  A recent water leak means the couple will soon need to replace the ceiling in one room.

None of this deters Michelle's love of her home or her town.  President of the Clifton Betterment Association since 2003, she has been a driving force behind the organization's mission to nurture the town's restoration and renovation and promote what residents here feel is the good life.

"We live in a part of history. The town is so charming and has real personality," she said.

The Steins have made a point of expressing their own family's collective history and personality right on their own front porch.  A sturdy table with a base of bright orange alligators is a nod to Michelle's alma mater, University of Florida.   Flanked by Adirondack chairs, a Virginia Cavaliers flag flies just a few feet a way.  Jeff is a University of Virginia graduate.  Daughter Mimi will graduate with UVA's class of 2012.

The covered porch offers shade and plenty of chairs to relax; more than a hint at the couple's love of the beach and ocean.  The stone wall that edges part of the property is likely a reflection of their deep appreciation of the area's history.  A second level porch is hung with wind chimes.

Clapboard siding, lush plantings and a winding walkway complete the sense of wonder and welcome guests experience here.

"Houses here have evolved into structures that people can enjoy," Michelle said.