Hot House: The Warrington, 3908 N. Charles Street #1303, Baltimore MD, 21218

Penthouse duplex apartment at the Warrington Condominium, circa 1927. Two bedrooms, 2.5 baths over 3,742 square feet, plus 500-square-foot terrace. 11- and 12-foot ceilings. Main floor: foyer, large living room with fireplace, dining room, butler’s pantry, library, powder room, Kitchen with oak floors, Traulsen fridge and private service elevator. Upstairs: ensuite master, dressing room w/custom walnut cabinetry and closet, spa-type marble slab bathroom, ensuite guest bedroom, laundry.  Central AC, one parking space: $2,885,800 (ask about HOA fee)

What: The Warrington is not the most expensive condo building in Baltimore, but for deep luxury and a certain kind of old world style, it is unique. Decorator Alexander Baer bought the penthouse (one of three in the building) 18 years ago as he was leaving a Guilford mansion. He completely gutted its interior, keeping the original plaster mouldings, the elegant curved staircase and an original bedroom door. Limestone floors were installed in the foyer, custom cherry parquet in the living and dining rooms, masterful lighting throughout.

He closed in part of the terrace to get the flow that the apartment lacked, and created the ideal space for someone who entertains frequently and lavishly. It has the style and scale of a grand Paris apartment, with each room leading gracefully into the next. Now, Baer says, “the time has come to pass it on to someone who will start all over again.”

Buyers should know that the real secret to the Warrington “is our staff,” says Baer. “We treat them generously and are rewarded with amazing service.” For instance? “You pull your car up to the front door, get out, and the car disappears–like magic.”

Where: Located on Charles Street, just north of University Parkway, this is a prime location for buyers who prefers the quiet neighborhoods of North Baltimore, such as Guilford, Homeland and Roland Park, to the faster pace of life downtown. While the Warrington has always had its share of high-profile residents, Baer emphasizes that it also has “a younger and more diverse group than you might think. We just got a young couple with their first baby.” So, luxury for all…

From the terrace, Guilford looks like a train garden, the church steeple is lit at night and the dome of Notre Dame is visible through the trees.

Would Suit: Exiled royalty, uptown girls (and guys)

Why: Red alligator doors in the lobby elevator.

Why Not: No indoor basketball court.

 NB: No tipping.