They look like quaint English cottages tucked away on a 2-block street in one of Reno’s most historic neighborhoods. They add unique charm to the area and capture the attention of everyone who walks by. And while similar in structure they are worlds apart in interior design.

What has become known as the Greystone Castle on Joaquin Miller is really much more of a grand cottage that seems to transport you back in time when you step inside. It’s the larger of the two homes yet is still only 1200 square feet of living space. And every inch of that space, as well as every fixture and every traditional treatment seems to add to the traditional cottage feeling.

Built around 1930, it’s believed both homes were most likely companion structures conceived from a pattern book, which was a popular architectural tool of the time. Pattern homes gave owners a way to choose specific styles, and incorporate them into their own living space without the expense of hiring an architect.

Greystone Castle was built with materials of the time in Reno; namely grey river rock and brick. But beautiful cathedral windows were incorporated into the plan for the Greystone Castle. The interior has high vaulted ceilings with interesting angles.

Its sister home next door incorporated many of the same qualities, and materials, but it is less lavish in design. It has symmetrical windows, hardwood plank floors and exposed beams for the interior. Decidedly more rustic, it’s overwhelming charm seems to make up for a lack of space inside. And its fabulously bowed fireplace gives you the feeling of a true hobbit house or a fairy’s den.

Both homes also boast marvelous exterior gardens and landscaping. Both homes also boast an incredible mix of old world charm and 1930’s conveniences. Electric conveniences of the time like a wall oven and curiously quaint tile work make small living spaces worth the effort.

They are standouts in a neighborhood of historic homes and ones worth seeing on any tour of Historic Newlands Manor.