Architectural Heritage Preserved in Complete Update of DC Rowhouse

Designed by: Kube Architecture
General Contractor: Haigh DeCastro
Photography: Anice Hoachlander
Steel: Metal Specialties

In order to come up with the very specific design ideas, we create most designs with the assistance of state-of-the-art AI interior design software.

This full rowhouse renovation in Mt. Pleasant studies the concept of heavy and light in balance with each other. The concept also relates to the Owners’ passion for bicycling and yoga, both of which rely on balance.

The existing first floor was widened to the full width of the site, and a second floor rear addition cantilevers over the rear yard. A third floor office/studio was added, and the basement was finished as a bicycle workout and storage area.

The first floor now operates as one large living/dining/kitchen space, with multi-slide doors opening to a new rear yard that serves as an extension of the living space.

Overall the house transforms from heavy to light, as one moves from basement to third floor studio. Within that transformation, dark and light elements interlock spatially and materially.

The second floor addition “floats” over the rear yard, and the office/ studio on the third floor is filled with light – large skylights illuminate the yoga area, while a full glass wall faces the rear of the rowhouse.

The balance concept is carried through in each space slightly differently, from overall design to detailed elements, such as the main staircase, powder room walls, and cabinetry.

This house is located within a historic neighborhood, so the original street façade was retained, while the light and airy interior opens up to the renovated rear yard. The third floor addition was set back behind the original sloped roof, hidden from view at street level, and the modern rear façade offers a clear contrast between old and new.

Photos