Published: Domino

This renovation to a ca. 1920, vaguely neoclassical rowhouse in Washington’s Petworth neighborhood reverses a previous open-plan intervention, reestablishing hierarchy and order while improving the perception of space. By moving the kitchen out of the central house and into the oposition of a former sun porch, we were able to reintroduce a proper service hall, gaining a floor-through desire line from the main entrance while simultaneously gaining storage and laundry in a concealed location from the main living spaces. Parallel to the new hall, the main living spaces return to a sequence of discrete, distinct rooms aligned on a central axis, ending in the relocated kitchen, where storage on one wall obviates the need for upper cabinets elsewhere and a wall of windows lends the feeling of a furnished room in keeping with house’s heritage. Vintage finishes, including early 20th century wallcoverings and hand-forged natural brass hardware, link the house’s original character with today.

• Location: Washington, DC

• Type: House, Partial Renovation (Main Floor)

• Services: Architecture

• Contractor: Impact Construction

• Photographer: Jennifer Hughes

• Stylist: Kristi Hunter