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On road to demolition, insides of Merion mansion to be gutted

Though a demolition permit hasn't been approved yet, the owners of a Merion mansion will sell off parts of the interior structure this weekend.

The owner of an 86-year-old Main Line mansion has plans to raze it and build a new home in its place.

But as he waits, the 12,000 square-foot-structure at 117 Raynham Rd., in Merion will begin to lose its insides.

From stripping the library's cherry wood to doors with stained glass panels to removing flagstone, and intricate railings, the company Pre-demolition Sales will help sell off the contents of the home and its pool houses starting Sunday.

Save a few exceptions, such as the stone from the exterior, the home is up for grabs.

Located in a private section of Merion Station, the home changed hands in February 2011. The previous owner, Paul Lee Newman, lived at the residence since 1997. The house was assessed at $975,000 as of 2011 and is surrounded by 3.57 acres, according to tax records.

The buyer, Gladwyne-resident David Magerman, had other plans for his new home.  In November, he submitted a permit for demolition of the home along with a permit requesting to build a new, larger dwelling.

The permits haven't been approved by Lower Merion Township yet, but Assistant Director of the Building and Planning department Art Noel said the applicant is simply following procedure.

A neighbor who wished to remain anonymous said the township notified her and area residents about the impending demolition.

Calling it a disappointment to the historical nature of the home, she said it seemed like "an environmental waste."

Noel said the residence isn't historically designated, as past owners opted not to make it a historical home.

Neighbors has calls into the Merion Civic Association as well as the owner, but have you seen the residence? Share with us your thoughts below in the comments.