CCSJ Love Stories | Rooted in Villanova: Eddie & Mariana’s Dream Home Story
Some houses simply wait for the right family to bring them back to life. That’s exactly the story of Eddie and Mariana, who patiently searched for years before finding their perfect match in Villanova.
When the search first began during Covid, the couple was raising little Nate in their Center City home. By the time the Villanova property came on the market, Mariana was expecting their second son—who was just two weeks old when they finally settled on their new home. Talk about perfect timing!
Their first visit wasn’t all charm: a bone-dry pond, an overgrown pool, and acres of unkempt land at the end of a long private drive might have sent many buyers running. But Eddie and Mariana saw the hidden magic—and they were right.
Fast forward 2.5 years, and the transformation is nothing short of remarkable. The once-weary grounds are now worthy of a botanical garden, complete with fruit trees, raised beds bursting with peppers, tomatoes, eggplant, corn, and more varieties of vegetables than one can count. (We’re all still wondering what secret plant food Eddie uses!) The pond, now sparkling and vibrant, draws turtles to bask by the cascades while the boys delight in scooping up tadpoles and watching baby carp grow.
Inside, Mariana—with her impeccable design eye—has crafted a home full of style and warmth, layering wallpaper, color, and carefully chosen pieces with the help of a designer. Outside, Eddie’s dedication has transformed the gardens into a wonderland for children to explore and for family gatherings to flourish. Together, their teamwork has breathed new life into this “grand old dame” of a house, turning it into a magical backdrop for Halloween displays, lively parties, and everyday family joy.
Of course, the journey hasn’t been without its hurdles—leaky pipes and mischievous deer come to mind—but none of it dims the happiness that radiates from this family in their Villanova haven.
For Cecile, who had the joy of helping them find this gem, seeing Eddie, Mariana, Nate, and their newest little explorer thriving in their dream home is the sweetest reward of all.
