223 Hillcrest Circle

Tucked quietly just off Franklin Street, 223 Hillcrest Circle offers a rare opportunity to own one of Chapel Hill's most enchanting and private settings--1.37 acres that feel more like a curated botanical garden than a residential homesite. Tulip trees, dogwoods, magnolias, crepe myrtles, and azaleas create a layered landscape of color and texture, while a charming rose garden adds to the storybook feel. With the neighborhood backing to university-owned land within Battle Forest, the property enjoys a sense of permanence and natural beauty that is nearly impossible to replicate. The home itself is a classic, mostly brick two-story with timeless appeal, offering 4 bedrooms, 3 full baths, and 1 half bath across approximately 3,500 square feet. Inside, the spaces are warm and inviting, anchored by three fireplaces that bring character and comfort to the living room, family room, and primary suite. A sunroom with ceilings crafted from reclaimed wood from an eastern North Carolina tobacco barn provides a soulful connection to the home's surroundings--an ideal place to begin the day with coffee or unwind in the afternoon light. The breakfast room is wrapped in floor-to-ceiling windows, allowing natural light to pour in while framing views of the grounds, and features a wet bar for easy entertaining. A rear deck extends the living space outdoors, offering a peaceful vantage point to enjoy the serene, park-like setting. Adding to the property's uniqueness is a detached 820-square-foot building, currently used as a light-filled art studio complete with a full bath. Whether envisioned as a creative retreat, guest space, office or future pool house, it offers incredible flexibility. Just a short walk to the University of North Carolina campus and moments from the energy of Franklin Street, this location is as special as the property itself. With its unreplicated setting and timeless structure, 223 Hillcrest Circle presents a rare canvas--move in and enjoy as is, or bring your architect to reimagine and expand into a truly extraordinary estate.