PennLive's Cool Spaces feature has once again delivered an impressive showcase of central Pennsylvania's most remarkable homes throughout 2025. This weekly series, published every Wednesday, offers readers an exclusive look at high-quality residences across the Harrisburg area and surrounding counties. The annual roundup highlights the diversity and character of the region's real estate market, from historic stone houses to contemporary masterpieces. Editor Dan Gleiter has curated a collection that reflects the rich architectural heritage and modern innovation present in central Pennsylvania. The feature has become a beloved institution for local residents and real estate enthusiasts alike, providing inspiration and insight into the area's housing trends.

The homes featured in 2025 represented an extraordinary range of architectural styles and price points that captured the imagination of readers. The series included stunning examples of Second Empire mansions with their distinctive mansard roofs, elegant Tudor revival estates with half-timbering details, and charming modern farmhouses that blend rustic elements with contemporary convenience. Readers also explored authentic midcentury modern homes, ornate Victorian residences, and sleek contemporary builds. The collection included everything from a modest $215,000 townhome in Harrisburg to a sprawling $35 million equestrian estate near Pittsburgh. The most expensive property within central Pennsylvania itself was a $3 million luxury home in Penn Township, Lancaster County, showcasing the high-end market in the region.

Geographic coverage extended across six primary counties: Berks, Cumberland, Dauphin, Lancaster, Perry, and York, giving readers a comprehensive view of the area's architectural landscape. Cool Spaces also ventured beyond central Pennsylvania to feature architecturally significant properties, including the Warren-Hickox House in Kankakee, Illinois, designed by legendary architect Frank Lloyd Wright. The series showcased new construction alongside carefully preserved 200-year-old stone houses, highlighting both the region's history and its continued growth. Each property was selected for its unique character, quality craftsmanship, or innovative design elements that set it apart from typical listings. The editorial team focused on homes that told a story about the community's evolution and architectural preferences.

Dan Gleiter expressed deep gratitude to the homeowners and real estate professionals who made the series possible through their cooperation and openness. Their willingness to open their doors allowed readers to explore extraordinary custom builds with luxury amenities like saunas, game rooms, spiral staircases, and indoor basketball courts. The series featured what could only be described as entertainers' paradises, picture-perfect borough homes in highly rated school districts, and custom ranch houses offering rural luxury living. Each Wednesday, readers discovered something new about the places their neighbors call home and the architectural trends shaping their communities. The personal touches and unique design choices in each home provided endless fascination for the audience.

As 2026 approaches, PennLive's Cool Spaces continues to seek out the region's most interesting residences and remains committed to showcasing architectural excellence. The publication encourages readers to submit suggestions for future features, maintaining its commitment to community-driven content and local engagement. Anyone knowing of a remarkable space can contact editor Dan Gleiter directly via email. The series remains dedicated to showcasing the architectural diversity that makes central Pennsylvania unique, from urban townhomes to countryside estates. Past years' collections are also available online, allowing readers to browse through a rich archive of the region's finest homes from 2020 through 2024.