Like the owners' other property, Middleton House, McDowell Studio combines 19th-century charm with pure comfort. The Studio, which has lofty ceilings and a generous sitting room, sleeps 4. It occupies the 3rd floor of a handsome historic house, just blocks from downtown, Washington & Lee, and VMI. A charming stone walk winds through the Studio's private garden to its private stairs and entrance. (Since there are two flights of stairs, McDowell Studio is definitely NOT HANDICAPPED-ACCESSIBLE.)

Formerly an artist's studio, the secluded apartment floods with light during the day, thanks to large windows with views and skylights. (Skylights operate electronically and open to catch the breeze.) Hand-printed wallpapers, c. 1880-1890 antiques, sea grass matting, comfortable seating, and a collection of paintings and prints contribute to the flat's atmosphere and charm. A carefully equipped custom kitchen with soapstone counters and a spacious tiled bathroom with shower offer thoroughly modern convenience.

The bedroom features a queen-sized iron and brass bed, while a top-quality sleeper sofa in the living room accommodates two additional guests. Meals can be taken at a small table in the kitchen or a large one in one corner of the airy sitting room.

Visitors can lounge on the sitting room's sofas or on the flat's small porch--or in the Studio's garden, which has a grill and Adirondack chairs. Thanks to the gardens surrounding the house, birdsong fills the air. (Bird-glasses are provided for those who want a closer look.) Guests also enjoy strolling or cycling nearby Wood's Creek Trail, which follows the creek to the Maury River and Jordan's Point Park.

McDowell Studio is perfectly positioned for shopping and dining in historic downtown Lexington. W & L's Lenfest Center, just 3 blocks away, presents concerts, plays, ballets, and even opera. And this luxurious apartment provides a convenient base for visiting Washington & Lee or VMI, with their elegant architecture and abiding sense of Southern tradition. McDowell Studio offers guests a rare opportunity to live graciously in the very heart of historic Lexington.

Keywords: flat, apartment