North Philadelphia rowhouse becomes overrun with books, showcasing a remarkable collection in every room.
Abel Tootle Jr. has spent the last 13 years cultivating a unique living space in his North Philadelphia home, a decision that marked a significant transition from renting apartments to becoming a homeowner. Prior to this change, Tootle had lived in various small rentals, none exceeding 800 square feet, which compelled him to seek out a residence that would better accommodate not only his lifestyle but also his passion for interior design.
Tootle’s choice of a circa-1910, three-bedroom house, spanning 1,200 square feet, was driven by both timing and a desire for creative freedom in personal expression. This newfound ownership eliminated the inconveniences of apartment living, such as frequent trips to the laundromat, and granted him the liberty to design his surroundings to reflect his personal style.
He views his home as an evolving project rather than a finished product. Tootle has intentionally refrained from making structural alterations, focusing instead on cultivating a warm, English-country-house ambiance infused with cultural and personal significance. His design incorporates an array of elements including an extensive collection of books, antiques, art, lighting fixtures, and colorful area rugs that add depth and character to his living space.
Tootle’s location was strategically chosen given his previous employment at Girard Medical Center, which he could reach in a mere 15 minutes by bicycle or a brief half-hour walk. Having grown up in proximity to his current residence, Tootle appreciates the vibrant community and diverse architectural styles surrounding him. The neighborhood is defined by classic brick and stone row homes, spurred by a rich cultural history in music and civil rights, alongside access to art, shopping, and numerous local eateries.
Professionally, Tootle operates in the realm of social work, drawing upon his expertise in various therapeutic disciplines including trauma and grief counseling. In his leisure time, he pursues hobbies such as reading, antiquing, and exercising. A focal point within his home is his impressive collection of approximately 3,000 books, which he has amassed over four decades from bookstores, auctions, and flea markets. His collection primarily emphasizes psychology, spirituality, and art, showcasing influences from writers such as Toni Morrison and Carl Jung.
Tootle’s aesthetic philosophy embodies a harmonious blend of influences reminiscent of a library, a church, and an art gallery, without pretension. He has a particular affinity for 19th-century antiques, often discovering remarkable pieces at various sales and auctions. Notable acquisitions include a 60-inch-wide antique Tiger Oak S-rolltop desk from the late Victorian Era.
Continuously experimenting with design, Tootle frequently rearranges furniture, modifies lighting, and introduces new colors and textures, adhering to a curatorial and maximalist approach that enriches his interiors. Looking ahead, he plans to further incorporate theatrical elements into his home decor.
In his backyard, Tootle envisions a transformation to create a mixed-use space, anticipating a container garden laden with diverse flora and a small gathering table. This evolution represents his commitment to not only living in a space that inspires him but also one that fosters community connection.
This exemplary instance of personal investment in homeownership and design serves as a testament to how spaces can reflect individual personality and professional identity, culminating in a vibrant lifestyle rooted in history, culture, and community.
For those interested in sharing their unique living spaces, nominations for home features are welcomed via email at properties@inquirer.com.
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