An 1889‑built Colonial Revival house on Irving Street spans 6,321 sq ft and boasts six bedrooms, four full baths and a finished lower level, all preserved amid mature trees on a quiet street just blocks from Harvard Yard.
Julia Child and her husband Paul moved into the house in 1961 after Paul accepted a teaching post at the nearby university, and the couple stayed for four decades, turning the home into both a private retreat and a studio where Child filmed portions of her landmark TV series. The kitchen she used for “The French Chef” and other programs was later donated to the Smithsonian National Museum of American History, where it remains on display as part of her culinary legacy.
The current owners, who bought the property in February 2009 for $3.7 million, carried out extensive renovations that modernized the interior while retaining period details such as four fireplaces, bay windows and built‑in shelving. The new kitchen features Poggenpohl cabinetry, marble countertops, a six‑burner cooktop, a Sub‑Zero refrigerator and a large island, a stark contrast to the original set that now resides in Washington, D.C.
Cambridge’s real‑estate market has seen a surge in demand for historic homes with modern amenities, and 103 Irving Street’s blend of heritage and contemporary upgrades positions it as a premium listing for affluent buyers seeking both prestige and comfort. The property’s listing agent, Ed Feijo, notes that the house’s tranquil ambiance and garden‑oriented design appeal to buyers looking for a quiet oasis near the city’s cultural hub.
The home will remain on the market until the end of April 2026, after which it may be offered to a private buyer who appreciates its unique blend of culinary history and architectural distinction.