Originally constructed in 1937, this urban row house is twice as wide as its adjoining neighbors. Considered unique since it was built, the property was featured in a 1939 Georgetown House Tour as one of a group of “interesting houses.” Few modifications had been made since the original construction.

The new owners hoped to improve the connection to the private rear garden while creating a contemporary interior, appropriate for their lifestyle and growing family. Success is evident upon entry into a generous foyer open to a skylit stair. The fortress of exterior brick belies the contents of sleek lines and light-filled rooms.

On the main floor, the new plan takes advantage of the entire thirty foot width of the house with a single large space for living, dining and entertaining. Garden connections are enhanced through a large rear bay and doors that fold open to a new terrace. Structural upgrades to the existing house made this continuous entertaining space possible.

The second floor is split cleanly with master suite to the east and children’s suite to the west. Lower level rooms, with new generous ceiling height, link to their own terrace connected to the upper garden by a cascade of steps.

The energy performance of the 75-year-old house is improved with the design and construction of a more efficient thermal envelope: all new windows designed to current energy code requirements were installed, and all existing exterior walls were furred and insulated for greater performance in warm and cold seasons.

Custom millwork is used throughout for a crisp aesthetic, concealing doors and creating monolithic surfaces. A continuous palette of natural materials emphasizes simple lines and daylit spaces.