On the Tour

A LIST OF PARTICIPATING HOMES FOR THIS YEAR’S HOUSE TOUR ARE BELOW, AS PROVIDED BY TOUR OFFICIALS:

1308

29TH ST. NW

This Federal-style house was built in 1825 and expanded in 1930, adding a wing in the rear of the home which is now the kitchen and dining room, as well as a detached garage. Dubbed the Georgetown “Spy House,” this home was once owned by Frank Wisner, a founding father of the Central Intelligence Agency. Allen Dulles, the first civilian director of the CIA, also lived here during the 1950s.

3023

P ST. NW

This 1800 federal townhouse on the east side of Georgetown is often referred to as the “Seam House” because of the vertical seam running down its brick façade. The two-story core of the home was originally used as a workshop but now functions as the dining room and features original exposed beams. In 1814, the home was purchased as an investment by Washington Bowie, a Scottish tobacco merchant and colonel in the Maryland militia. Bowie was also the godson of George Washington (who was present at his christening) and founding vestryman in 1796 of St. John’s Church. In 2015, the homeowners with architect Christian Zapatka restored the home.

1347

30TH ST. NW

Longtime owner Hannah M. Parker, who living until the age of 98, recalled President Teddy Roosevelt riding his horse past her house when the streets were dirt. This elegant sun-filled 1900s Victorian now offers elegant architectural details and an extensive art collection. Bleached floors and an all-neutral color scheme reflect the modern architectural changes made by architect Christian Zapatka and interior designer Azali Kassum. This home’s history showed a third floor that had been lost in a fire. After much study and planning, the home was restored to its original beauty and usefulness.

1615 31ST ST. NW

Hidden away in a charming enclave of Georgian center hall colonials — built in the 1980s on the site of the historic SmithWinslow House — this home is a delight, tastefully redesigned by architect John Cecchi of Cecchi Homes with both family living and formal entertaining in mind. The owners have filled the home with unique artwork that stands as focal points throughout.

1698 31ST ST. NW

Near the entrance to Dumbarton Oaks and set among other historic residences like the Taft Mansion and Tudor Place, this grand fivelevel Victorian home was built in 1898 and is formerly part of McLean’s Lot. The elegant facade and welcoming foyer are an invitation to the graciousness of this sophisticated bow front Victorian townhouse that boasts bright rooms with large windows, five fireplaces, numerous bookcases, tall ceilings with crown molding and wooden floors. It was restored by current owners, Daniel Chao and Jeff Berkowitz. The previous owner of 30 years was Dr. Norma Evenson, an architect, urban historian, and a prize-winning author of architecture and urban planning books.

3235 P ST. NW

This house is one of four built by Emmert & Heisley in 1886 as companions to one another. Given the window layout, it is clear that this property was constructed as a residence, although it has enjoyed various uses throughout the years — a boarding house, a shop of distinguished art and antiques, an art gallery, a jewelry store and a confectionery shop. It is now the office of Christian Zapatka Architect. The redesigned spaces are adorned with storied effects throughout. Zapatka has brought true meaning to the term, “home office.”

1416 34TH ST. NW

An Italianate-style house built in 1876, this stately detached brick federal, known as the Wetzel-Graves home, was renovated by architect Dale Overmyer and features hard wood floors and crown molding throughout its grand living spaces. The side and rear outdoor space and gardens feature an artist’s studio, which is also used as a guest house. The artist’s works can be seen throughout the house.

1413 35TH ST. NW

In 2005, architect Christian Zapatka transformed this intimate 1,480-square-foot home built in 1900 to reflect the modern-day conveniences, while keeping the traditional Georgetown charm. The living room across the back of the house opens directly on to a limestone terrace through three sets of tall French doors. The home features a beautiful, terraced garden that is a must see.

3001 R ST. NW

In Oak Hill Cemetery, Renwick Chapel built in 1850 was designed by James Renwick, Jr. A National Historic Landmark, it is an example of Gothic Revival architecture and often called a “miniature Gothic gem.” The chapel has hosted funerals and weddings for the past 173 years, with notable guests including presidents and cabinet members. Renwick’s work includes the Smithsonian Building, the original Corcoran Gallery of Art (now the Renwick Gallery) and St. Patrick’s Cathedral in New York City.