Built in 1886, stands as a historic brownstone in Washington, DC’s prestigious Kalorama neighborhood. Originally commissioned by agricultural magnate Benjamin H. Warder, this 5-bedroom, 4.5-bath home showcases classic stone façade and architectural details like original millwork and heart pine floors. Recent renovations blend modern luxury with history, including a renovated marble wet room and a fully updated one-bedroom lower-level unit with rental potential. Features include a private elevator, two-to-three-car parking, and expansive entertaining spaces. Listed at $2,495,000, this 3-level residence combines storied architecture with contemporary living amidst walkable proximity to metro, parks, and vibrant city life.
Outdoor Patio Seating
The space presents a cozy outdoor patio with weathered wooden decking and a partially open wooden pergola overhead, adorned with string lights for ambient evening illumination. A patterned black and white outdoor rug anchors a simple taupe loveseat featuring yellow and gray geometric accent pillows, adding a pop of color and comfort. The patio is enclosed by a horizontal slat wooden privacy fence. Exposed brick walls in varying red and brown hues frame a large black-trimmed window and a black-framed glass door leading inside, blending rustic charm with modern urban design elements. A vintage-style wall-mounted lamp completes the space.
Rooftop Deck Seating
Wooden deck flooring extends into a cozy rooftop outdoor area, bordered by a black metal railing with multiple planter boxes brimming with colorful flowers. A structured pergola with string lights casts subtle shadows, providing both ambiance and partial cover. A sleek brown outdoor sofa against a horizontal wooden privacy fence is adorned with yellow and geometric-patterned pillows. A large black-and-white patterned rug under the seating area adds an elegant contrast to the natural wood tones. Neighboring townhomes with varied facades create an urban backdrop under a clear blue sky, enhancing the inviting atmosphere.
Historic Brownstone Exterior
The facade presents a traditional American brownstone townhouse with rich reddish-brown stone bricks conveying a timeless, robust character. Tall, narrow windows with black iron grilles enhance verticality while stained glass accents above the main bay windows add subtle color and historic charm. The entrance is accessed by stone steps leading to a black metal-framed glass door beneath an arched transom marked “2008.” Mature leafless trees frame the house, casting intricate shadows over the textured stonework, which contrasts with adjacent lighter-toned buildings and ornate wrought iron railings, emphasizing classic urban architectural elegance.
Hallway Details
The long, narrow hallway is lined with polished hardwood floors that add warmth to the cool, crisp white walls. Ornate white wainscoting with textured paneling runs halfway up one side, topped by a delicate molding rail and accented with a slim glass shelf supported by decorative brackets. Soft recessed ceiling lights illuminate the space evenly. The walls are adorned with minimalistic art pieces in neutral tones, while a large, round white-framed mirror reflects light and adds depth. At the far end, a glass-paned door invites natural light, leading to what appears to be another living area.
Living Room Details
Hardwood floors with warm tones run throughout the space, contrasting elegantly against crisp white walls and ceilings. Two tall windows at the far end allow abundant natural light to highlight the room’s airy feel. A glass-top desk with a black modern chair sits near a wood-paneled fireplace mantel, suggesting a multitasking space. A tan leather sofa with striped throw pillows is paired with a simple, patterned area rug and a woven armchair, bringing texture and comfort. Artwork and a large round mirror adorn the walls, while a minimalist black-framed side table with a textured white lamp adds subtle sophistication.
Living Room Seating Area
The space is defined by warm, rich wooden flooring that contrasts elegantly with bright white walls and ceiling. A brown leather sofa faces a set of two white marble-topped nesting tables, creating a cozy seating area. A single armchair with a wooden frame and woven back complements the arrangement. A classic wooden fireplace mantel serves as a central focal point, topped with an oversized floral painting that adds muted gold and gray tones. Nearby, a sleek glass desk with a black chair sits in a niche beside framed French doors leading to a staircase. Minimalistic decor includes a streamlined black console table, rounded mirror, and vases with green branches, enhancing simplicity and warmth.
Bedroom with Balcony Access
The bedroom centerpieces a comfortable bed dressed in light gray striped bedding, flanked by two white nightstands topped with matching gray ceramic lamps. A colorful abstract painting hangs above the upholstered headboard, bringing vibrant splashes of orange, yellow, and blue to the serene room. Light hardwood floors contrast softly with the off-white walls and ceiling, while a textured beige area rug anchors the sleeping area. Natural light streams through two large windows and a glass door that opens to a balcony. Classic white radiator and simple window treatments enhance the blend of modern comfort and historic charm.
Bathroom Details
Compact bathroom with a clean, bright aesthetic dominated by white walls, tiles, and fixtures. Features a white porcelain pedestal sink with a modern chrome faucet and a rectangular mirror with a white frame above it. A small potted plant adds a touch of greenery on the sink counter. The toilet is positioned next to a bathtub with smooth white tiles lining the shower walls. A shower curtain with subtle circular patterns in soft hues hangs from a curved rod. Simple, white towels are neatly hung on a chrome towel rack, enhancing the space’s minimalist feel.
Back Porch Seating Area
Wooden planks cover the flooring and ceiling of this covered back porch, creating a warm, natural ambiance. A cozy seating arrangement with dark wicker furniture includes a loveseat, chairs, and a glass-topped coffee table placed atop a geometric patterned rug in muted tones. Cushions add comfort and subtle color contrast. The porch railing overlooks a paved driveway and neighboring buildings with various architectural styles and windows. The surrounding walls feature horizontal wooden paneling, and soft evening light bathes the space, enhancing the inviting atmosphere for outdoor relaxation and social gatherings.
Entry Hall and Staircase
Polished hardwood floors complement the warm wooden staircase with detailed balusters and newel posts leading upward. White walls and trim create a bright, airy atmosphere, offset by the dark metal chandelier hanging from the high ceiling, giving a classic yet modern touch. Glass-paned double doors with transom windows open into an adjacent room, enhancing light flow and openness. A round glass table set on a light area rug holds a white vase with autumnal branches, adding a splash of color. Built-in cabinetry and black hardware on doors contribute to the classic elegance of this inviting foyer space.
Living Room Seating Area
Bright and airy living room with large windows allowing natural light to flood the space. The walls and built-in shelves are painted white, complementing the warm honey-toned hardwood floors. The fireplace is central, with a simple black hearth and a round mirror above, flanked by elegant built-in cabinetry. A glass-topped coffee table with a black metal frame sits on a neutral area rug, surrounded by plush light beige sofa and white barrel chairs. Two wooden armchairs with open lattice backs add texture and warmth, while minimalist decor and plants provide subtle accents.
Living Room Details
Bright living room with white walls and trim creating a clean, airy atmosphere. Hardwood floors add warmth and contrast nicely with the light furnishings. A beige sofa with patterned throw pillows faces two unique modern white chairs with sculptural curves. A geometric white side table and a glass-top black coffee table anchor the seating area on a neutral area rug. Built-in shelves and cabinets with classic molding flank a simple black fireplace, above which hangs an elegant round mirror with a gold frame. Recessed ceiling lights illuminate the space. An archway leads to an adjoining dining or study area with wooden dining chairs.
Dining Room Table
Rectangular wooden dining table with a dark finish paired with six upholstered chairs featuring wooden frames and neutral beige fabric cushions. The room is painted in a crisp white, enhancing the natural light and creating an airy atmosphere. A large abstract painting with muted earth tones hangs on one wall, adding a subtle pop of color. Classic architectural details are visible in the white, ornate columns and trim framing the doorway, leading to another bright room with extensive cabinetry and large windows. A light gray rug anchors the dining area while warm hardwood floors add warmth and texture.
Dining Room and Staircase
The space presents a bright dining room adjacent to a wooden staircase with classic white balusters and rich wooden handrails. The dining table is large, rectangular, made of dark wood with seating for eight upholstered chairs in neutral beige tones with wooden frames. Light walls and ceiling contrast with warm wood flooring, creating a harmonious balance of light and warmth. Wide archways supported by white columns with intricate molding separate this room from the living area visible beyond, maintaining an open yet distinct flow between spaces. A neutral rug anchors the dining area.
Kitchen and Dining Nook
A bright, narrow kitchen space with white cabinetry lining both sides creates a clean, organized look. The cabinetry features recessed panel doors with sleek silver handles, offering ample storage. The warm, polished wooden floor adds a rich contrast to the predominantly white color palette. At the far end, a bay window with white trim illuminates a small round dining table accompanied by two upholstered gray chairs. Modern ceiling fan and pendant light fixtures hang above, blending functionality with simplicity. The overall design balances historic charm and contemporary minimalism, highlighting natural light and a cozy dining corner.
Bright Kitchen Nook
White cabinetry with paneled doors lines the kitchen walls, complemented by sleek stainless steel appliances including a microwave and gas stove. The kitchen island includes additional storage and a modern faucet with a double sink. Warm, polished hardwood floors extend throughout the space, adding a historic charm. A cozy dining nook rests in front of large, multi-pane windows framed with classic molding, inviting natural light. Soft gray walls provide a neutral backdrop for contemporary pendant lighting and an abstract still life painting, blending modern convenience with traditional architectural details.
Kitchen and Dining View
The kitchen presents a clean, bright aesthetic with white cabinetry extending to the ceiling, complemented by sleek silver hardware. A spacious quartz countertop island with a double basin stainless steel sink dominates the foreground, equipped with a contemporary high-arc faucet. Stainless steel appliances including a stove and microwave blend modern convenience with the classic design. Under-cabinet lighting enhances the workspace. Warm, polished wooden flooring runs seamlessly from the kitchen into an adjacent dining area, visible through a wide doorway framed with subtle decorative molding. The dining room features a large table with upholstered chairs and carpet, illuminated by natural light filtering through multiple windows.
Cozy Breakfast Nook
A small white round table sits between two modern cushioned chairs with wooden legs, arranged in a cozy nook by large classic sash windows. The windows are trimmed with ornate, historic white molding that complements the white walls and cabinetry. The warm-toned wooden floorboards add natural texture and warmth to the room. A small plant and decorative items on the table bring a touch of greenery and freshness. The space feels intimate and bright, blending contemporary furnishings with elegant architectural details and city views outside the windows.
Wooden Staircase Details
A gracefully spiraling wooden staircase is captured from above, showing rich, warm-toned hardwood steps with visible natural grain patterns. The handrail is a polished, darker wood, contrasting subtly with the white turned spindles that provide a classic touch. White risers accentuate the vertical elements and add brightness to the space. The staircase winds through multiple floors, framed by clean, white-painted walls with simple molding details. A glimpse of brick wall and a window below hints at the historic charm and architectural heritage of the home. The overall aesthetic balances timeless elegance with inviting warmth.
Master Bedroom Interior
The bedroom is styled with a modern yet cozy atmosphere, featuring dark charcoal-gray walls contrasted by crisp white trim around the large multi-pane windows. A white upholstered headboard complements the white bedding and pillows, creating a stark yet elegant visual contrast against the dark wall. Matching white nightstands flank the bed, each topped with classic white table lamps. The space is anchored by a patterned light beige area rug on top of warm, polished hardwood floors. A minimalist bench with a metal frame and neutral upholstery sits at the foot of the bed. The ceiling boasts a sleek three-blade wood ceiling fan, and recessed lighting brightens the room. A long white radiator runs beneath the windows, blending historic charm with contemporary design elements.
Master Bedroom Interior
Dark charcoal-gray walls contrast sharply with the bright white bedding and trim, creating a modern, sophisticated ambiance. The room is anchored by a large bed layered with multiple pillows and a plush comforter in white and subtle patterns. A sleek, white dresser with horizontal lines sits against one wall beneath a round, decorative mirror framed with a natural wood design, adding a touch of warmth. Hardwood floors bring organic texture, softened by a light-colored area rug with simple geometric motifs. A wooden ceiling fan adds a mid-century modern element, and understated floral artwork enhances the understated elegance of the space.
Modern Bathroom Vanity
The bathroom is designed with a sleek, contemporary aesthetic, dominated by neutral tones. A large glass-enclosed shower and bathtub area is tiled with light gray marble, lending a clean, cohesive look. The floor features smaller square tiles in a slightly varied gray palette. Opposite the shower sits a minimalist white vanity with integrated dual sinks; the cabinetry has flat-front drawers and brushed metal handles, creating a streamlined profile. Above, a wide mirror spans the vanity, reflecting light and enhancing the sense of space. Accessories include a simple arrangement of white flowers and matching soap dispensers, adding subtle elegance.
Closet Storage Area
White built-in shelving units provide organized storage with adjustable shelves, drawers, and hanging rods. The combination of open shelves and pull-out drawers maximizes functionality for clothing and accessory storage. Clean lines and a minimalist design evoke a modern aesthetic. The hardwood floor beneath adds warmth and a classic touch amidst the sleek white cabinetry. The closet space appears bright and airy, enhancing its utility and making it practical for daily use. The walls are also painted white, contributing to the fresh and crisp atmosphere of this well-crafted storage area within the home.
Bedroom Seating and Shelving
Soft white walls and built-in cabinetry frame a plush bed with neutral striped bedding and tropical-themed pillows. A light gray upholstered headboard with border nailhead trim complements the gentle earth tones. Ornamental shelving above and beside the bed reveals a subtle gold-patterned wallpaper inside, adding depth and warmth. Two large windows bring in natural light, illuminating a bay window desk setup with seating. The rich honey-toned hardwood floors contrast with the light rug underfoot. The ceiling fan with wood blades adds a functional yet simple modern touch. Coordinated wicker accents enhance the cozy, airy aesthetic.
Home Office Nook
White built-in cabinetry and shelving create a cohesive workspace around the corner, accented by a light beige wallpaper with a delicate feather pattern. The L-shaped desk wraps around two large windows, allowing ample natural light to fill the space and offering an urban rooftop view. A single quilted grey chair with dark legs rests at the desk, contributing a soft contrast to the white surfaces. Hardwood floors add warmth beneath. Decorative elements include neatly placed books, a small plant in a white vase, woven baskets, and various minimalistic ceramic and wood objects enhancing the room’s serene, organized ambiance.
Bedroom with Built-In Shelves
A cozy bedroom with a neutral palette of soft grays, whites, and natural wood tones. The bed is centered with a light gray upholstered headboard, flanked by built-in white cabinets and open shelving that feature decorative items and plants. The wall behind the shelves is adorned with a subtle, pale gold patterned wallpaper, enhancing visual interest without overpowering the space. A textured bench in front of the bed and a gray, quilted chair by the white built-in desk add texture and practicality. Warm-toned hardwood floors contrast beautifully with the white cabinetry, while a modern wooden ceiling fan and recessed lighting complete the tranquil, yet stylish environment.
Bathroom Vanity and Toilet
A compact bathroom corner with a clean, minimalist look defined by a white and gray palette. Large rectangular marble-effect tiles cover the lower half of the walls and continue onto the floor, adding softness and texture. A white toilet sits beneath a small potted plant, enhancing freshness. The vanity has a broad, white sink basin set atop a cabinet with frosted glass paneled doors, combining functionality with a simple modern style. A large frameless mirror expands the space visually, and recessed ceiling lights provide bright, even illumination. Chrome accessories add a sleek metallic accent throughout.
Bathroom Shower Area
The shower stall is enclosed with clear glass doors supported by polished metal hinges and a vertical handle. Large, gray marble tiles cover the shower walls, creating a sleek, luxurious feel, complemented by smaller mosaic tiles on the shower floor that add texture and visual interest. The showerhead and control knob are modern with a chrome finish, matching the minimalist metal shelf for toiletries. A white towel hangs neatly from a wall-mounted chrome bar outside the shower, contrasting softly with the gray tones of the marble, evoking a clean and contemporary aesthetic. The adjacent white door and walls maintain a crisp, bright contrast.
Bedroom and Laundry Nook
A stacked washer and dryer occupy a compact alcove just outside a bright bedroom. The bedroom boasts rich, wide plank hardwood floors with natural grain and warm tones, contrasting beautifully with the crisp white walls and trim. A ceiling fan with sleek wooden blades blends modernity with comfort above the bed, which is dressed in simple white linens. A beige geometric rug anchors the bed and wooden bench at its foot. Large windows framed with classic molding flood the room with daylight, highlighting built-in shelving and woven baskets for functional, stylish storage, creating a clean, airy atmosphere.
Bright Playroom and Sleeping Area
The space combines a playroom and sleeping area with a clean and simple design. White walls and ceiling provide a bright, airy feel, enhanced by a large skylight that opens up the room to natural light. The floor is warm-toned hardwood, complemented by a large, plush white rug under a small gray children’s table and two matching chairs. A white bed with textured bedding and monochrome pillows sits against one wall. A colorful, abstract print enhances the far wall above a lamp and brightly colored children’s easel. Built-in storage adds functionality while maintaining minimalism.
Entryway Nook
A small entryway space features a white door with frosted glass providing privacy and natural light. Above the door is a semicircular transom window with decorative wrought-iron detailing visible through the frosted glass. Adjacent to the door is a matching arched window with white blinds partially drawn, allowing soft light into the room. Walls are painted in a soft off-white color complementing the light wood flooring, which adds warmth and texture. A built-in white cabinet with simple panel detailing and round knobs is mounted above a recessed area, creating functional storage without compromising the clean, minimal aesthetic. Clean lines and subtle architectural curves evoke a timeless, understated elegance.
Basement Living Area
The room presents a modern basement living space with light gray walls and wide plank light wood flooring that adds warmth and texture. A small built-in electric fireplace is set into the far wall, offering a cozy focal point without overwhelming the space. Multiple recessed ceiling lights evenly illuminate the area, enhancing its clean airy feel. Two arched windows near the entryway contribute subtle architectural interest, blending traditional design with contemporary finishes. The overall design is minimalistic and bright, with neutral colors creating a versatile canvas for future furnishings.
Modern Kitchen Interior
Bright and streamlined kitchen with a U-shaped layout, outfitted with white shaker-style cabinets and brushed metal hardware. Stainless steel appliances include a refrigerator, gas range with oven, a vent hood, and dishwasher, complementing the white quartz countertops and backsplash. Light wood flooring provides warmth against the crisp white cabinetry, enhancing the space’s modern and clean aesthetic. Recessed LED ceiling lights ensure even, unobtrusive illumination throughout. The kitchen sink features a sleek black high arc faucet, contrasting subtly with the predominantly white and silver color scheme. The open layout includes a pass-through above the sink, visually connecting to an adjacent room.
Basement Room Entrance
Long, narrow room with light wood flooring extending the length of the space. Soft gray walls and white baseboards create a clean, contemporary feel. A recessed ceiling with angled edges contains several small, round recessed lights, providing bright, even illumination. At the far end, a modern door with frosted glass offers access outside, while a small built-in shelving niche sits beside a window with a shade, adding subtle architectural interest and practical storage. The overall aesthetic is minimalist and serene, with neutral tones and clean lines emphasizing spaciousness and light.
Listing Agent: Jeff Wilson of TTR Sotheby’s International Realty via Zillow