Welcome to the Short North Civic Association’s 49th Annual Home & Garden Tour!
Welcome to the Short North Civic Association’s Annual Home & Garden Tour!
We are so excited you have chosen to attend the 49th tour! As you wander through the homes being showcased this year, the phrase “if these walls could talk” has never rung so true. The stories would be endless…industrial buildings transformed into residential living spaces, 100+ year-old single-family homes converted into multi dwelling apartments and then back again, collections and art carefully curated to complement the interests of its occupants, and families making modern updates and new memories for years to come, just to name a few.
The tour weekend would not be possible without the assistance and efforts of so many. Our immense gratitude goes out to the Tour Committee, the Homeowners, the House Captains, the volunteers, the sponsors, and all our wonderful tour guests and supporters!
The Short North neighborhoods have so many unique stories to tell. We hope you enjoy all that you will read and hear about today!
Have fun and make sure you take a break and grab a slice of pizza!
Caroline Stinziano & Bobby Thaxton 2024 Co-Chairs, Short North Tour of Homes & Gardens
Ohio Living WestminsterThurber is a vibrant, 55+ life plan community. Our Independent Living residences — Thurber Tower, Goodale Landing, and the brand new Heritage Pointe — offer amenities like a pool, gardens, dining and more.
1 TOUR STOP
645 Neil Ave, unit #302 ~ Donna & Bruce Siple
Thurber Tower
Thurber Tower, in the Ohio Living Westminster-Thurber 55+ retirement community, embraces creativity and individual choice. And this is where creative duo, Donna & Bruce Siple chose to locate after a major downsizing. Their open floor plan home features a southwest facing balcony where they enjoy morning coffee and evening sunsets. Senior living isn't boring when you can live life your way.
Get ready for something different!
This residence, with its maximalist sensibilities and eclectic style offers unexpected delights throughout including vintage toys, art deco vases and glassware, a neon carousel heart, Mona Lisa images, Heywood Wakefield furniture and serigraphs by Zap Comix illustrator, Robert Crumb.
But the chief attraction of this unique space can be summed up in one word: Plastic.
Since childhood, Bruce has collected thousands of vintage toys, picnicware pieces, bottle caps, broken taillights, colorful vinyl records, display units and other items. His palette of “circus colors” is dominated by yellow, orange, red, pink and green. He arranges these items into spectacular displays of color and symmetry. A 17’ x 9’ wall is his main display area. The other key feature is a coffee table with layers of glass, each held up by laundry detergent caps. Every layer is a mandala of small, whimsical plastic objects.
The apartment also includes a small studio bedecked with Bruce’s drawings. He draws every day, and leaves pencil drawings wherever he goes. He says restaurant kitchens and cash registers are his galleries. He signs drawings with his nom d’art, Jippo.
1309 Neil Ave ~ Joe Pimmel & Nick Rediger
This Victorian home was built shortly after Anne Dennison platted “Dennison Park Addition” in 1888. Anne Dennison, eldest daughter of William and Hannah Neil (namesakes of Neil Avenue) was one of the first women in the country to lay out a subdivision. The neighborhood eventually became known as “the Circles,” because of unique circular intersections that serve as parks. The garage was added in 1920 as the automobile age took off.
The home is 3,050 sq ft and has adapted through the ages. In the 1970s and 80s Battelle owned the house and divided it up into apartments. Eventually the house was brought back together as a single family home – significant improvements were made over the past 25 years.
Joe and Nick purchased the home in 2021 and recently completed a total kitchen renovation. The foyer wallpaper features peacocks – a theme in the decor that has been adopted as the house ‘mascot’. The homeowners’ art collection ranges from local artists to contemporary. Their most recent piece was a commission by local artist, Adam Hernandez featuring their cat, Pixie Bob.
Neighbors have come to love Joe and Nick’s Halloween decor, which turns their front yard into a spooky but friendly graveyard.
Architecture notes by Dean Berlon, urbanorder architecture ~ This house is all about making a statement. Here, you’re looking at a rare and striking example of a Victorian home with a rusticated stone front. While most homes in Columbus at the time were built with brick—thanks to its local availability and lower cost—stone was a luxury. It had to be imported and carefully dressed and sized, making it a symbol of prosperity. Even the flat ‘jack’ arches above the windows are crafted from the same high-end stone, so it’s clear that the original owner wanted to show off. Every surface is considered. Look up and you’ll see a slate roof adorned with a decorative diamond pattern, a design echoed in the diamond arrangement of shingles along the top cornice of the porch and the gable ends peeking over the stone walls. The double-arched porch detailing seems to defy gravity, with sturdy stone columns supporting an open second-floor balcony, adding to the house’s grandeur. This is a home that was built to dazzle.
PIXIEBOB
141 E. 3rd Ave ~ Eric Harter
Homeowner Eric Harter enjoys living in a non-standard dwelling and this historic industrial building fits the bill for him. Eric’s art collection is extensive and includes a unique variety of media – view his collection at E-factory.cc
Architecture notes by Dean Berlon, urbanorder architecture
Welcome to a piece of industrial history in the heart of the Italian Village neighborhood. This 1890’s industrial brick building is a fantastic example of the industrial structures that popped up around Italian Village in the late 1800s. With no zoning codes, this area became a mix of homes, small businesses, and industrial buildings, all existing side by side.
The distinctive sawtooth roof design—it’s not just for show. This clever design features four rows of north-facing clerestory windows that flood the interior with natural light. High windows on the side walls keep the space open and airy, perfect for maximizing workspace.
Fast forward to late 1990s when the building underwent a loft conversion by Bruce Shumard –he transformed the building into 3 unique residential condos. Today, you’re touring the front half of the original building. The other two condos face Punta Alley and boast their own private courtyards.
The home includes a rare mix of art from obscure avant-garde to artifacts that tell forgotten stories. Each piece is carefully chosen including interactive sculptures that bring joy and surprise to guests. A vintage camera collection is perched along a brick ridge and photos reflect Eric’s friends, family, travels and unique vision.
This building is a wonderful example of how old industrial spaces can be saved and reimagined for modern living.
"Thank you to our friends and neighbors for 20 years!"
~Trish & Johnny
simple fare with innovative twists specializing in Italian & Mediterranean inspired entrees
As an innovator in the real estate market since 1926, we believe it is essential to support our community.
CASTO is proud to sponsor the Short North Tour of Homes & Gardens.
BONUS
4 TOUR STOP
1030 N. High St ~ Mikey's Late Night Slice at Oddfellows
Mikey’s Late Night Slice at historic Oddfellows - tour attendees can stop for a break, relax and get half off a slice of pizza and drink specials.
The Oddfellows building has a storied history as part of the Short North neighborhood and we’re proud to showcase this landmark where each item on the wall was hand picked to fit the space perfectly by bar owner, Mike Sorboro. They all have a storied past, an important present, and probably a funny story about how they got here. "It took me about a year and a half to collect all this 'junk' and almost cost me an engagement!"
Sorboro says "We’re not the first Oddfellows to occupy this building! In fact, The Odd Fellows built this building! Take a look at the front of our building. At the very top, you’ll see the letters IOOF. That stands for the Independent Order of the Odd Fellows. The IOOF began in 18th Century England as a global altruistic and benevolent fraternal organization. The original Odd Fellows were men who were engaged in various or odd trades that didn’t have the numbers to form the security provided by a trade guild or union like the Masons.
These workers of “odd jobs” banded together and initially met in the back rooms of pubs, paying a penny per week in dues that would help members who fell ill or had passed away. Eventually, the idea spread and formed a network of more formalized Lodges and the Odd Fellows developed their own unique rituals, philosophy, and purpose. Although few in number these days, Odd Fellows Chapters still exist and are active all over the country. We call ourselves Oddfellows as a nod to the building, the organization’s history and the men who built it."
Mikey's Late Night Slice is on the patio side of Oddfellows where their famous pizza is cooked inside a cargo container fitted out as their kitchen. Sit indoors or at outdoor tables, enjoy a half price slice and drink specials - get your second wind before you go on to the next stop on the tour!
SHUTTLE ROUTE
TOUR MAP
Stroll the route OR hop on & off 1 of 3 shuttles stopping at tour locations throughout the day.
Tour Stop Shuttle Route Shuttle Stop Restrooms
47 W. 3rd Ave ~ Seth Lawton & Reid Sprite
In 1880, Charles A. Stribling, a local architect, and his wife Hattie Stribling, purchased the land at 47 W 3rd Avenue from James A. Aston and constructed the original house, which was completed no later than 1887. The house is a two-story brick Italianate structure with heavy Victorian influences.
In the 1910s an addition was added to the front of the house, which eliminated a side porch but added a new main staircase with stained glass windows. Similar nearby houses with the original front façade design can be found on W 3rd and W 2nd Avenues. Walking around the neighborhood, you can observe other homes with some of the same Italianate details, like the corbels or the lintels accenting the windows. Another addition was added to the back of the house in the mid-1900s. At some point, the house was split into two dwelling units before being reunited many years later.
Architecture notes by Dean Berlon, urbanorder architecture ~ 47 W Third is a lively Italianate gem with a splash of Victorian flair. This house is a visual delight with its intricate roofline featuring deep overhangs, ornate brackets, and charming diamond trim. There is a decorative belt course that elegantly separates the second and third floors. Notice the elaborately carved stone lintels over all the windows and doors, adding a touch of grandeur.
The wide projecting gable roof on the left side is a unique detail that gives the house a whimsical, non-symmetrical charm. This design ties in beautifully with the elaborate two-story bay window on the side, complete with recessed panels and fish scales—a nod to later Victorian style.
The wide front porch, with its gabled roof, is supported by doubled Ionic columns resting on solid brick bases, creating a welcoming and majestic entrance. This house is a delightful blend of Italianate elegance and Victorian exuberance.
OLIVE
SCOUT
6 TOUR STOP
59 W. 3rd Ave ~ Nat Sheppard & Kate Dixon
Nat & Kate purchased their home in the fall of 2020. Renovations started in 2021 with the 3rd floor from an unfinished attic, into 1 bedroom apartment. This included moving the staircase so that the apartment could have it's own private entrance. During this phase of the project they also turned what was a 5th bedroom on the 2nd floor into the on-suite primary bath and closet. When that was completed, they actually moved into the 3rd floor apartment and began renovations on the first floor kitchen, mudroom and half bath. All renovations were complete in spring, 2023. Completing this project was a mix of home owner design and project management.
Their favorite features in the home include the original arched pocket doors, the chandeliers in the parlor and dining room, the front staircase, the arched nook in their daughter's room, the many fireplaces, and all the other details that make for a grand victorian home.
The homeowners have two kids, ages 5 and 2 plus their dog, Scout. They say they bought the home because they could see the potential to renovate it into their forever family home, and wanted to be close to family members living in Victorian Village.
Next on the project list is adding a back yard patio, restoration of the back porch, and eventually, reconstruction of an original front porch (now missing) that would have been accessed from the dining room door.
Architecture notes by Dean Berlon, urbanorder architecture ~
This classic Italianate house is a true time capsule from the 1800s. The style was popular between 1850 and 1880 and this home showcases the simple yet stately detailing and a clean, almost modern design. Notice the tall, narrow windows and deep roof overhangs that define the style. The roofline is straightforward and elegant, perfectly capturing the essence of Italianate architecture including beautifully carved lintels over the windows and doors that add a touch of artistry to the facade.
Stone steps, flanked by the original side 'cheek walls,' lead you to the recessed paneled entrance with its ornately detailed front doors. This grand entrance is designed to make a spectacular first impression. The front bay window, adorned with curved dentil molding, echoes the design over the front door, creating a harmonious look. This house is a perfect blend of elegance and historical charm.
7 TOUR STOP
30 Price Ave ~ GREEN|HOUSE ~ Brett Kaufman
The Short North’s latest residential midrise is GreenHouse – a unique residential apartment community in the Short North Neighborhood designed for those who seek respite from a busy urban world. A place where wellbeing, nature, and transformation coexist just steps from High Street; offering studio, one & two-bedroom apartments, plus penthouse and townhome residences.
A 1 bedroom apartment is the featured tour stop with the option to view an unfurnished 2 bedroom townhome residence and selected community amenities.
Community amenities include an elevated pool deck with hot & cold plunges, luxury fitness studio featuring TechnoGym equipment, community room with full kitchen, a rooftop meditation terrace, and EV charging stations inside a gated resident-only parking garage. Additionally, Green|House offers a wellness corridor with a traditional sauna and two private treatment rooms that will feature a rotation of local wellness providers. A community app offers concierge services including apartment cleaning, dog walking, car detailing, special offers from neighborhood businesses and more.
Green|House residents have exclusive access to GRO, a transformational wellness program made up of monthly learnings designed to build habits that improve and transform your life over the course of a year. This includes instructional content from wellness experts, in-person events and a GRO tool kit provided at move-in.
Rosie’s Garage is at 3378 Indianola Ave Columbus, Ohio 43214
775 Park St ~ Beth & Rob Vogt
This classic Queen Anne with its asymmetrical façade, was built in 1888 Beth and Rob Vogt purchased the home in 1990, renovated the house and removed the remnants of the apartments. They found photos of the house with the original porches intact and had them duplicated. Note the frontside porch. This was a ‘smoking porch’ accessed from the back yard. A two-car garage was added to mimic the characteristics of the 1892 addition with a rear deck area. The unfinished third floor attic has been converted into their family room.
The house sold in 1891 at a sheriff’s sale and used by Ohio Medical College that eventually became The Ohio State University medical school. In the 1960’s the home was converted into five apartments and all porches were removed except for one over the front door. The front doors were removed at this time and stored in an antique shop on High Street. They were eventually found intact in the 1980s and returned to the house. Originally, the addition was going to be removed.
Plantings are a concentration of native Ohio plants and perennials. The Dawn Redwood was originally planted in the backyard by the previous owners and was about 9’ tall. It has transformed the front yard from mostly sun to mostly shade and still growing. The white oak in the neighbor’s yard overhanging the rear deck is estimated to be over 200 years old. It may be the oldest tree in Victorian Village.
Architecture notes by Dean Berlon, urbanorder architecture ~
This house is a prime example of the style's flair. One of the standout features is the large front window, a common Queen Anne element designed to impress the neighbors. Back in the day, oversized glass was a luxury, so you'd typically only find it on the public side of the house. Notice the roof's eye-catching pattern with alternating rows of square and diamond slate shingles. The front gable is adorned with intricate decorative rake trim that adds a touch of elegance. The roof overhang is embellished with charming brackets. The house is wrapped in inverted brick bands that cast shadow lines, seamlessly connecting the rusticated segmental arched window lintels. The brick box bay at the front of the house supports a second-floor balcony, with turned columns, intricate fretwork, and balusters.
This home is a perfect blend of intricate details and historical elegance, making it a true Queen Anne gem.
MommaCali
TRIBUTE to John Allen
John Allen, owner of the Short North Tavern passed away on July 4, 2024. John was a driving force behind the Short North's transformation from a dilapidated area to a thriving arts district.
Allen opened the Short North Tavern in 1981, when it was surrounded by boarded up buildings and empty lots. He went on to help form the Short North Business Association, an organization that would seek funding for neighborhood reforms to transform the once-decaying region into the lively community it is today.
Deb Roberts, aka Ms. Doo Dah, posted on her Facebook page “His dedication to making the Short North Tavern and the Short North Arts District a place for everyone to enjoy is truly admirable. He will be deeply missed.”
Cheers to John, a true champion of the Short North.
For more info on John and his contribution to the Short North visit ShortNorth.com/Allen,John.html
Buying Selling?
Build your dream home on this 44’ by 100+’ vacant lot ideally located on Say Avenue between High and Summit and between E. Third and E. Fourth Avenues.
Contact Andy at (614) 299-6139 for survey and info
TOUR COMMITTEE
Tour Co-Chair – Caroline Stinziano
Tour Co-Chair – Bobby Thaxton
Gina Cronley
Kris Harrison
Libby Koetz
John Koetz
Lee Paragas
Heather Rice
Jessica Seckel
Jeff Smith
Ashley Wood
Special Thanks to Dean Berlon, Kasey Conyers and Becky & Jim Kronk
SNCA BOARD OF TRUSTEES
President – Jack Decker
Vice President – Chuck Fairbanks
Treasurer – Bob Stern
Secretary – Jared Cape
Director - Caroline Stinziano
Director - Marc Conte
Director - Heather Rice
Homeowner’s brunch hosted by Angie & Eric Tabor
SAVE THE DATE! Sept 21, 2025
Next year is the 50th Annual Short North Tour of Homes & Gardens
Short North Tour of Homes & Gardens is produced
Preview Party Dessert Sponsors
Anthony Thomas
Jeni's
O Sweet T
sweetgreen
Winan's
JOIN or DONATE to the Short North Civic Association TODAY!
The Short North Civic Association (SNCA) is a nonprofit civic association focused on building a strong community through representation, education, advocacy, and sponsorship of projects benefiting the Short North and its surrounding neighborhoods.
YOUR SUPPORT of the Short North Civic Association helps fund the Screen on the Green outdoor summer movie series, Goodale Park Music Series, Short North Tour of Homes & Gardens, Neil Avenue streetscape planters & island medians as well as local grants and other neighborhood projects.
Your annual membership allows the organization to function and gives YOU a voice in the Short North neighborhood... JOIN TODAY!
