The Carriage House is owned and operated by Melani Lamond and Brian Ratigan, who have also lovingly renovated it. Melani and Brian live next door in the Stone House and have been residents of University City for over 30 years. Their interests lie in restoration of Victorian and early 20th Century buildings, in Victorian and Craftman furniture, and in neighborhood development.  They are members of the University City Historical Society, Cedar Park Neighbors, Spruce Hill Community Association, Squirrel Hill Community Association, the University City Arts League, and the Pennsylvania Board of Realtors. Melani works through Urban & Bye Realtor and has served on a number of University City boards. Brian is a registered professional engineer, currently developing Biodiesel Technolgy. One of his main hobbies is restoration. Their stone house was recently featured on HGTV's "Restore America".

Among their other renovation projects are a Craftman cottage at the Jersey shore (weekly rental available), a rustic mountain cabin, a Victorian Bed & Breakfast (The Gables), restoration of a 3-story Victorian shell, and a commercial building on Baltimore Ave (now Vientianne Cafe - only 2 blocks away). Currently working on a beautiful building at 4800 Baltimore Ave.

    If you need directions by car, train, or trolley or a recommendation for dinner, they'll be happy to point you in the right direction.