At a time when contemporary architecture and minimalism seem to rule the land, it’s comforting to know that storybook homes still exist.

But while these abodes may look, from the outside, like charming relics of another era, most don’t resemble a quaint old cottage inside. In fact, many of the storybook homes on the market these days have meticulously updated interiors meant to appeal to modern tastes. Cozy on the outside and current on the inside, they represent the best of both worlds.

We found five quintessential storybook homes in different parts of the country that are just waiting for new owners to move in and bring a happy ending to their home search. Read on for more about this quintet of adorable residences.

Plot summary: Built in 1923, this three-bedroom English Tudor has been expertly restored. Modern amenities merge effortlessly with the home’s original craftsmanship.

While some Tudors tend to be dark inside, this one is white, light, and bright—with soaring ceilings and sparkling windows and French doors. Family rooms have been opened up so the superb new kitchen flows right into the dining area and beyond.

The sellers picked up the 1,311-square-foot home about a year ago for $830,000 and did a first-rate makeover. Offers flew in within days of its arrival on the market.

Plot summary: A more recent addition to storybook lore, this estate was built in 1997. The five-bedroom home has already become a legend thanks to a gorgeous kitchen that would make even the most reluctant cook want to whip up a tasty bowl of porridge.

As befits a woodsy manor set on 1.5 acres, there are heart of pine and Tennessee flagstone floors, bronze doorknobs, and cathedral ceilings with exposed cedar beams. There are even refurbished 100-year-old lighting fixtures and an antique roundel-glass window.

Buyers might be most dazzled by the towering double-sided fireplace between the kitchen and dining room. It’s a cozy touch that’s as rare as a friendly dragon these days. It looks like this listing is about to have a happy ending, as a sale is pending.

Plot summary: This storybook home looks like it could be the residence of a forest-dwelling woodcutter.

“Hansel and Gretel might have lived here,” the listing notes.

And if the quaint 1,341-square-foot cabin with a rock fireplace is a bit too rustic, an owner can take refuge in the tiny home set nearby. The newer structure is an ideal studio, office, or guest quarters and features a sleeping loft, full bath, and mini kitchen.

The property also features a rock garden with bridges, fashioned after the Japanese tea gardens of San Francisco. There’s even a 1,000-square-foot shop/storage area once used to raise chinchillas. The chapters that can be written in this fascinating storybook home seem to be endless.

Plot summary: Don’t judge a book by its cover. This Tudor from 1920 looks like a cute one-story cottage from the street, but it’s actually a three-bedroom, two-story home in one of the San Francisco Bay Area’s most desirable towns.

The large lot slopes in the back, which means the primary suite on the upper level offers lovely views of the bay. You can see just how close you are to the water—as well as the trendy shops and restaurants in the area.

Like so many well-preserved and restored Tudors, this one has retained original features—including a statement fireplace, wood floors, and multipaned windows. However, it’s also been opened up to allow light to stream in from all four sides. Other key updates include a modern kitchen and remodeled baths.

Plot summary: The current owners have been content and cozy in this Tudor for the past two decades. Now it’s time for them to turn the page and allow someone else to write their own story in this classic gem.

Built in 1936, this 1,881-square-foot brick home on Long Island is close to transportation hubs to whisk you to the big city.

All the spaces have been renovated and restored with nods to the three-bedroom home’s historical roots. There are two cozy fireplaces, wood floors, built-in shelving, and an adorable front door.

But there are also modern amenities, including a recently redone kitchen with new appliances and a sweet built-in banquette. The finished basement substantially adds to the total square footage—and to the home’s value.

Lisa Johnson Mandell is an award-winning writer who covers lifestyle, entertainment, real estate, design, and travel. Find her on ReallyRather.com

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