1611 Allison Street

Washington, DC 20011

Crestwood is a community bordering the east side of Rock Creek Park, known primarily for its rich texture of historical revival architectural styles dating from the first quarter of the 20th century. While constructed in an earlier time, many of these homes possess the space that today~s buyers require in the way of private quarters, bathrooms, and storage for contemporary living. This residence is a perfect meeting of the Colonial Revival style for which the neighborhood is known, and a modern, open floor plan.Built in 1924 in the tradition of developer Harry Wardman and designed for gracious living, the house has high ceilings, rooms of a generous scale, and ample natural light on each of its four floors. The neighborhood developed quickly after World War I and was populated by a growing middle class that moved to the neighborhood as a result of the new 16th Street trolley line connecting downtown with this in-town suburb. Currently, there is an evolving dining scene only a few minutes walk, and while the trolley car is a distant memory, the neighborhood is served reliably by the frequent 16th Street bus lines.Among the features that make this home comfortable are the kitchen and adjacent family room arrangement, which make entertaining a pleasure. Substantial storage space was added by the creation of an open pantry just off the kitchen. The family room offers a view onto the garden, has a new solid walnut floor, is heated by its own fireplace and cooled by a separate unit, and is a perfect spot for working or leisure. Improved garden access was created from this space by way of beautiful masonry steps. The renovations were so well designed and executed that the owners were awarded 1st Place in their category in the 2010 National Association of Remodeling Industry Coty Awards. The second floor offers three large bedrooms and two completely renovated bathrooms. In addition to new fixtures and finishes, the bathrooms have new plumbing and floors. The former sleeping porch was transformed into a comfortable living space for all seasons by the addition of new, energy-efficient windows. The basement is used as a home gym and for storage, but the presence of a full bathroom offers the opportunity to create an au pair suite. There is the added convenience of an attached two-car garage with upgraded lighting and electrical systems.Frequently overlooked, yet often desired, is a curated outdoor space, which this house offers. A seven-foot cedar fence and matching gates create a private environment that allows for entertaining in any season. The rear garden was re-interpreted as a space for outdoor entertaining that includes new lighting and a spa.