Built in 1928, this stately Georgian home is one of the true “Grande Dames” of Chevy Chase, DC. This beautiful residence is set on a gorgeous and private 1/2 acre lot, designed by the master garden designer, Lila Fendrick. The level front lawn is screened from the street and framed by a horseshoe driveway, allowing ample off-street parking. The formality of the front yard gives way to stone walls and beautiful gardens surrounding the backyard swimming pool.
Fully renovated in 2006, the interior of this 8,200 sqft five bedroom (with optional 6th), four full- and two half- bath home is a marriage of the best of old and new, with an elevator servicing three of its four floors and spectacular spaces for entertaining. Seemingly from a bygone era, the gracious scale and careful attention to detail is apparent the moment you enter, from the high ceilings and generous proportions of the entry foyer and its original light fixture, expansive front and back parlors, to the lovely formal dining room, sun-filled solarium and porte cochere. The kitchen is graced by a fully functional 1936 Chambers Imperial stove, which functions as a centerpiece (and conversation piece) for the entire home. The sunny breakfast room and quiet tree-shaded porch, overlooking the lawn of the Bulgarian Chancery next door, are wonderful retreats in any season.
The second level has a lovely primary bedroom, two additional bedrooms, secluded office and a breathtaking library which surveys the rear garden. The third level has two bedrooms and a view overlooking the entire neighborhood, with the tower of the Washington Cathedral visible on a winter’s day.
The lower level, with its entertainment center, wet bar, pool table and exercise room, opens to the lovely trellis room and generous pool terrace. Like the entry level, this area is also designed for gracious and comfortable entertaining. Caterers can gain easy access to the backyard through the private car gate and driveway extension.
Modern updates to the property include a full hard-wired security system, an operational battery backup system, and integrated intercoms throughout, combined with a surprising amount of storage for a property of its age. Not only is the home remarkable, but the neighborhood as well. One block from Lafayette Elementary School’s tennis courts, splash park and marvelous playgrounds, and a short walk to the Broad Branch Market and the shops and restaurants of Connecticut Avenue. Chevy Chase, DC is a village within the city, and this wonderful block of Rittenhouse Street is a destination each Halloween for hundreds of children who know it as a prime trick or treat location.
This unique house has only been available to the market a few times in its long history. Don’t miss your chance to call this special residence your home!