A Midcentury Pumphouse on the Rappahannock River Was Transformed Into a Jaw-Dropping $1.15 Miillio Retreat

A former pumphouse along the Rappahannock River in Fredericksburg, VA has been transformed into a jaw-dropping two-story residence.

Listed for $1,150,000, the one-bedroom dwelling features a top-floor living and dining area overlooking the river, with sleeping accommodations tucked away one level below.

"It’s a piece of history that is like living in a museum," said listing agent Mari Kelly of Long & Foster Fredericksburg. "When you walk in, the light is extraordinary in the upper two floors with tree and water views. It feels like you are really cocooned in there."

The waterfront structure, offering 425 feet of river frontage, was built in 1947 and has just 750 square feet of space in the main dwelling, along with a detached structure designed for hosting events.

"Five floors under the home, you can see the equipment that is still there from when it was used as a pumphouse," Kelly noted. "It’s also located on over an acre of land in the city, which is also quite unique."

Kelly noted that visitors cross a bridge to reach the home’s front door.

A detached "River Room" on the 1.45-acre lot has a kitchenette and half bath for entertaining.

"It is a very large structure with full river views that has been used mostly during the summer for parties," she said. "It’s just stunning."

Originally constructed as a midcentury industrial building, the property now offers the potential for a variety of uses.

"I think the next buyer will be someone who wants a cool part-time crash pad or primary residence in downtown Fredericksburg that is steps away from everything," Kelly noted. "It could also be someone looking to get a special use permit. Like everything, you have to get the right permits, as it is R4 zoning, but it’s an old industrial building."

She added that the property has "such a cool ambiance in spades".

"One could potentially offer kayaks or other water devices, and launch them from the property and use the River Room for storage. You could also sell novelty tickets for a tour of the property as there is nothing quite like it. This would make an amazing office to meet with clients," Kelly said.

"On the inside, there are these double green doors that open to the outside and an expansive wall of windows. It’s really such a unique property. There is nothing quite like it."

The main level features a full kitchen and living area with expansive windows designed to frame the incredible surrounding water views.

A cozy primary suite is located one flight below the main living area.

If you venture down five more flights of stairs, you’ll discover the building’s original water pumps and electric motors, providing a peek at the property’s industrial history.

Outdoors, multiple river-facing terraced patios and a concrete deck were designed for soaking in the peaceful scenery.

According to the listing, the property could be used as a "personal waterfront retreat, a business opportunity, or a memorable gathering and event space."

"There is such a special feeling inside the home," she said. "You’re in the trees but feel like you are over the water, and the way it captures the light is very beautiful. It's designed for a buyer looking for an extraordinary property when the ordinary will not do."