A Harrison Boulevard Icon & One of Boise's Great Historic Homes

 

Standing proudly along Harrison Boulevard, this celebrated home has welcomed generations of Boiseans for more than a century. It has witnessed the city's remarkable transformation from a young western capital into one of the country's most desirable places to live, all while remaining one of Boise's most recognizable architectural treasures.

Designed in 1911 by renowned architect John E. Tourtellotte, whose work also includes the Idaho State Capitol and St. John's Cathedral, The Lion House is among the finest examples of California Mission-style architecture in the region. Originally commissioned for prominent Boise businessman G.W. Bond and later serving as the Governor's private residence, the home is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. More than a century after its construction, it remains a remarkable example of enduring craftsmanship, thoughtfully preserved and carefully restored to honor its original character while supporting modern living.

(Fun note: While the home’s architecture, presence, and historic significance are all impressive, the residence gets its name from the two lion statues that greet guests as they come up the front steps. We recently heard from a past owner who installed these statues – there were originally large planters on those steps, and when they disappeared one night, the owner decided to replace them with something that would be more permanent. And now, everyone knows this remarkable residence as The Lion House!)

An Architectural Legacy

From the moment of arrival, the home's architectural pedigree is unmistakable. Rich quarter-sawn oak floors, substantial moldings, exposed beam ceilings, pocket doors, handcrafted built-ins, and a distinctive arched motif carried throughout the millwork create a level of detail seldom found today.

Beautiful Rookwood tile serves as both art and architecture, accenting fireplaces and adorning the ceiling of the grand entry. Every room reflects the extraordinary craftsmanship of an era when homes were designed to endure & inspire.

The residence unfolds through a series of gracious living spaces designed for both formal entertaining and everyday enjoyment. A grand entry hall gives way to elegant rooms including formal living and dining spaces, a sunroom, den, and a beautifully remodeled kitchen appointed with high-end appliances and rich finishes. Two wood-burning fireplaces anchor the main level, each showcasing exceptional craftsmanship and period authenticity.

A sweeping Mission-style staircase leads to the second floor, where four bedrooms, two full baths, and a primary sitting room create refined and comfortable sleeping quarters. Above, a finished attic offers flexible space for recreation, fitness, creativity, or retreat, with charming dormer areas overlooking the surrounding neighborhood.

The lower level continues the home's impressive livability, featuring a media room with wet bar, a custom wine cellar concealed behind a vault-style safe door, an office or bonus room, full bath, laundry room, and abundant storage.

Outside, private courtyards provide intimate settings for dining and entertaining, complemented by an outdoor fireplace, built-in grilling area, lush lawns, and mature landscaping. A detached casita tucked within the courtyard offers a private guest retreat complete with bedroom and bath, ideal for visitors, extended stays, or additional flexibility.

 

Harrison Boulevard: Boise's Grand Avenue

Originally envisioned as Boise's premier residential boulevard in the early 1900s, Harrison Boulevard quickly became home to many of the city's business leaders, civic pioneers, and influential families. Wide parkways, mature tree canopies, historic streetlights, and an extraordinary collection of architectural styles create one of the Treasure Valley's most iconic streetscapes.

Walking Harrison Boulevard feels like stepping into Boise's living history. Grand Tudor Revivals, Craftsman homes, Colonial Revivals, Mission-style residences, and elegant Foursquares line the boulevard, each telling a chapter of the city's architectural evolution. Many have been lovingly preserved, allowing today's residents to enjoy homes built with exceptional materials and remarkable craftsmanship.

Throughout the year, Harrison Boulevard remains a gathering place for the community. Its Halloween celebration has been nationally recognized and nearly every holiday brings its own special outdoor decor & excitement to the street. Residents often choose this street for morning runs and evening walks beneath towering trees. People from all areas of the Treasure Valley often make a day of it, playing or hiking at Camel’s Back, grabbing a treat at Certified Bakery or Goody’s Soda Shop, then strolling up and down Harrison Blvd to take in the scenery and admire the architecture. 

 

Life in Boise's North End

Tree-lined streets invite morning walks and evening bike rides. Hyde Park serves as the neighborhood's gathering place, where independent coffee shops, locally owned restaurants, boutiques, and neighborhood markets create a welcoming sense of community. Just beyond, Camel's Back Park and the Ridge to Rivers trail system provide immediate access to hiking, mountain biking, and some of Boise's most beloved outdoor recreation.

Families appreciate the walkability to highly regarded schools, including Washington Elementary and North Junior High, while Downtown Boise, the State Capitol, and the city's cultural attractions are only minutes away. It is a neighborhood where historic architecture, vibrant community life, and outdoor adventure exist just beyond your front door.

 

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Lysi Bishop Real Estate is an expert in the Boise Real Estate market, offering unmatched expertise and unparalleled service to clients around the Treasure Valley. With over 30 years of in-depth knowledge and experience, Lysi Bishop inspires and leads her team of dedicated agents towards earning the title of the Best Boise Real Estate Team, year after year.

Our team specializes in luxury homes and five-star, concierge-style service in Boise and all surrounding areas, including neighborhoods like the North End, East End, Highlands, Collister, Harris Ranch, Warm Springs Mesa, East End Foothills, Boise Bench, SE Boise, Barber Valley, and West Bench, and extending into Eagle, Two Rivers, Hidden Springs, Meridian, Nampa, and Kuna.