The Athalia Hall house, a featured home on the Azalea Festival Home Tour, seamlessly blends history with modernity. This c. 1906 one level living cottage, has many of the details from the turn of the 19th century such as stained glass windows, heart pine flooring, 4 non-working fireplaces, porches, 10 foot ceilings, 12 inch baseboards, and a location that is a block from the river and a short stroll to everything downtown.

Beyond its' beautiful Front Street location, what sets this home apart is the thoughtful updates and renovations adding more than a splash of modern. The Kitchen which has been showcased on the Historic Foundation's ''Back Door Kitchen Tour'' is thoughtful and open with a unique vaulted ceiling, Mahogany cabinets, a large center island, Soapstone and Carrara marble. It is the heart of the home. There is also a fully updated bath with tile, glass, a walk-in shower and walk-in closet.

This is a very special home that has been very well taken care of. The front porch offers a glimpse at the social fabric of downtown and the back porch offers privacy and an area often dedicated as the ''al fresco'' dining area. Lastly, of note to the house's history and character, in 1978 Mary Louise Spencer wrote and recorded the song, ''The House at 503'' about her time spent living at the Althalia House.

* Subject to minor preservation easement with Historic Wilmington Foundation.