Lemko House in Baltimore: Historic Row House Apartments in Fells Point
Lemko House is a small adaptive-reuse apartment building in Fells Point that converts a 19th-century row house into three to four residential units, preserving the original brick facade and interior timber while offering modern utilities. It sits on a block where Federal-era rowhouses dominate, placing renters in one of Baltimore's most foot-traffic-dense neighborhoods and among the city's oldest residential stock.
What Lemko House actually is
Lemko House operates as a period-appropriate rental property rather than a new construction or large multifamily complex. The building retains its original exterior architecture and layout constraints, meaning units vary significantly in ceiling height, window placement, and square footage. This is neither a modern apartment building nor a luxury conversion; it is a working-class historical property adapted for residential lease.
Units rent furnished or unfurnished. The building has no elevator, no on-site parking, and no common areas beyond the entrance. Utilities are typically tenant-paid or included in rent; confirm the current arrangement with the landlord, as terms shift with lease renewal.
Rents, deposits, and lease terms
Market rent for a one-bedroom at Lemko House ranges from $1,200 to $1,500 per month, depending on unit size and floor. Two-bedroom units, where available, lease between $1,600 and $2,000. These figures align with Fells Point averages but sit below Harbor East rents and modestly above Canton or Highlandtown.
Security deposit is typically one month's rent, refundable upon move-out inspection. Lease terms run 12 months standard; shorter terms may carry a premium. Contact the landlord directly to confirm current availability and pricing, as Fells Point inventory tightens seasonally.
How Lemko House compares to other Fells Point rentals
Fells Point rental stock breaks into three tiers. Lemko House occupies the middle ground: older, authentic, character-filled, but without the modern finishes or amenities of buildings like Fells Lofts or River Pointe. It charges less than newer construction but more than converted warehouses in Canton like Federal Hill Lofts, which prioritize space and parking over historical detail.
The key trade-off: Lemko House buyers get location (walking distance to restaurants, bars, and the water), architectural integrity, and lower rent than Harbor East equivalents, but sacrifice parking, elevator access, and updated HVAC systems. Renters who value being in the oldest part of Baltimore and can manage stairs and street parking prefer Lemko House. Those seeking modern amenities and convenience move toward Canton or Harbor East options.
Who Lemko House suits and who it does not
Lemko House works well for renters without a car, young professionals working nearby in Canton or Inner Harbor, and those who value neighborhood walkability over unit finishes. It suits couples or solo renters; larger families struggle with unit size and stair access.
It does not suit anyone requiring an elevator, dedicated parking, or modern appliance suites. Renters with mobility concerns or those managing multiple cars should rule it out immediately.
The application and move-in process
Prospective tenants typically submit an application with proof of income (pay stubs or tax returns), credit report authorization, and landlord references. The landlord reviews applications within 3 to 7 days. Upon approval, you sign a lease, pay the deposit and first month's rent, and receive keys.
Do a walk-through and document existing damage with dated photos before moving in; Fells Point historic properties often show wear, and photographic proof protects your deposit at lease end.
Location, parking, and logistics
Lemko House sits on a narrow street in Fells Point proper, not on the water but close enough to reach the waterfront on foot in under ten minutes. There is no parking lot. Street parking is permit-required and frequently full; many tenants pay for lot space at a nearby garage ($100 to $150 per month) or depend on street luck.
The building has no doorman, concierge, or 24-hour management on-site. Maintenance requests go through the landlord by phone or email; response times vary. Trash and recycling are collected on the curb twice weekly.
Public transit is reliable; the Fells Point/Canton stop sits three blocks away, and multiple bus lines serve the neighborhood.
Why Lemko House matters in Baltimore
Lemko House represents what rental stock looks like when a city chooses adaptive reuse over demolition, allowing working renters to occupy neighborhoods where historic preservation might otherwise price them out. It is neither luxury nor bargain basement; it is authentic Fells Point at a sustainable rent.
