Kenilworth

This charming Asheville enclave has historic character, accessibility and community all wrapped up in one. Kenilworth sits south of downtown, touted as the city's pioneer suburb. These residential streets are full of 1920s flair, flaunting eye-catching architecture that harks back to an enchanting era. Asheville's hot spots are right around the corner, a short walk or ride away in this central location.

Kenilworth's striking streetscapes pull in buyers searching for homes with style. Spanish villas, cozy Craftsman designs and Tudor Revival cottages perch on hillsides cushioned by lush evergreens. Modern buyers can find Frank Lloyd Wright-inspired prairie homes hitched to the area's uneven terrain. Many locals enjoy sweeping views of Asheville's undulating landscapes. Properties range from $750,000 and soar into the multi-millions here, depending on size and level of upkeep. Looking for a turnkey condo? You can live next door to the quaint Biltmore Village for $400,000 to $750,000. Empty lots in Kenilworth start at $80,000 for buyers interested in creating a bespoke design. Locals are noticing an uptick in interest from relocators searching for a mountain getaway. “The housing market is competitive here,” says Nikki Freeman, Realtor at The Redbud Group.

Kenilworth has a notably broad selection of nearby education options. Local students can attend Claxton Elementary before moving on to Asheville Middle and wrapping up their studies at Asheville High. Awarded an A rating on Niche, this high school's extracurriculars are as diverse as its creative surroundings. These talented students choose from an array of arts offerings, from dance to ceramics and the history of rock. You won't miss this elaborate historic campus, an iconic Asheville landmark with its original clay tile roof and prominent central tower.

Homeowners can unwind after a long day at Kenilworth Park in the shade of the neighborhood's old-growth trees. Laughing kids climb on the play equipment while groups gather for tennis matches. You'll find outdoorsy locals scaling Beaucatcher Mountain's steep slopes on mild weekends, bound for unmatched vistas of North Carolina's blue-misted ranges. Sports fans filter into the Asheville Tourists Stadium on game days to cheer on the home team, crisp brews in hand. Bring your furry friends along for the Doggies at the Diamond event, a community favorite.

Kenilworth has the connected community many seek out when picking their perfect spot. Neighbors congregate on chalk-covered sidewalks for parties, festivals and parades. The Kenilworth Neighborhood Association socializes regularly and works in the shared interest to maintain its home's historical identity amid imminent growth and development. Unique to this quirky spot is the Kenilworth Artists Association, which organizes an annual Art Studio Tour hosted by 40 neighborhood artists who open their doors to curious locals.

These locals live moments from shopping and dining destinations, from casual chain restaurants on the nearby Tunnel Road to Asheville Mall's name-brand retailers and boutique shops. When the city calls, Kenilworth residents can take a scenic 20-minute walk downtown. You're also about a mile from the famed South Slope's busy brewery corridor. The kids can snack on a PB&J on brioche bread at Mother while you peruse the impeccably curated wine list. Spend your weekend night out listening to live local music at Sovereign Kava Bar, an offbeat neighborhood haunt. Biltmore Village lodges other local hot spots for endless dining and shopping pursuits. “A lot of the draw for this area is the proximity to Biltmore Village,” Freeman notes.

Living and working are convenient in this well-positioned locale. Ingles Markets is nearby, a popular stop for weekly grocery shops. Many professionals head into the heart of the city for a day at the office, which is bikeable for those seeking an emissions-free commute. Mission Hospital is another major local employer, minutes from your doorstep. Asheville Rides Transit serves the area with bus stops dotted along the main roads. For storybook streets with stunning mountain views and convenient living, explore Kenilworth.

Written By

Caeleigh Griffin

Photography Contributed By

Steven Bollman

Video By

Adam Lapallo