WASHINGTON. DC

This is a modern fairytale – a story of a young couple looking for a home to start their family. They found a cottage in Washington DC’s historic Georgetown neighborhood, but it was a “cinder-villa” – fire had destroyed the interior, so it was in need of a full transformation. They found an architect to design a “jewel box” within the shell of the historic structure – a beautiful space emerging from the ruins of the old. The fresh interior includes natural light, elegant materials, and a seamless connection to the outdoors. 

A second floor was added in the rear, and large windows and doors now bring sun light into the open floor plan. The rear yard is an urban oasis, with green space, fire boxes, and space for the children to play. A roof deck adds to the family’s connection to the outdoors. The red stain of the front cedar siding is repeated in the rear to tie together old and new. The restoration of the street façade preserves the cottage's character and connection with the surrounding historic context.

photos: Anice Hoachlander
contractor: Arta Construction