Renovating at the heart of the nation’s capital is always a delicate business. We embraced the client’s wish to extricate this historic Capitol Hill neighborhood rowhouse from its ivy-covered past and breathe some life – and light – into it with a distinctly respectful but modern twist.

While we maintained but refreshed the beautiful brick façade with modern accents that add to curb appeal, we completed a full-gut interior renovation that offers a home befitting of the times and housing market of this vibrant DC neighborhood.

The existing 19th century structure contained a hodgepodge of chopped-up, windowless boxes, so light was the order of the day. The walls quickly gave way to the current open first-floor plan that extends from the front entry through the living room area to the inviting modern kitchen in the rear of the home. There, we replaced two-thirds of the rear wall with glass that opens up to the exterior courtyard, extending the home’s reach and infusing the space throughout with natural light.

Integrated light fixtures, clean lines, and oak flooring imbues this home with a distinctly urban – yet warm, airy, and welcoming – feel. The open wood and steel-banistered stair adds to the spaciousness while concealing a half-bathroom and generous pantry.