Step onto the spacious wrap-around porch of the Deen House and at once you are transported back in time to 1912.  This landmark home is located in the heart of the Lake Morton Historic District. It is a Prairie-style brick and sandstone home that has undergone significant restoration since 1994.

 

Visitors will immediately notice the recurring cross theme inset in inverted triangles adorning the porch and exterior columns. The home features bold crown moldings, restored oak paneling and wood-stained beams across coffered 11 ½ foot ceilings.   The staircase is over four foot wide in a spacious open atrium that showcases the commissioned stained-glass masterwork of the “Tree of Life” by Lakeland artist, Ken Berman circa 2007.

 

The lower-level living areas feature massive block-wood pocket doors that enable partitioning and privacy as well as six fireplaces. There is a powerful use of archways as a brilliant counterstatement to the angular hallmarks of the early 20th century prairie motif.

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Lakeland native Steve Shelnut returned home to the area after a seventeen year absence. Choosing the historic district was an easy decision with its incredible proximity to the arts, educational and cultural core of the city. Friendly neighbors, life filled lakes and the charming brick streets were other items in the plus column. Having the opportunity to own the historic Deen home- that was the deal maker!

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From the 2013 LMNA Historic Home Tour brochure