In Georgetown, a Federal Row House Finds New Life in Color and Character

Tucked into one of Washington, D.C.’s most storied neighborhoods, this 120-year-old Federal row house holds plenty of history within its stone fireplaces, tall ceilings, and original hardwood floors. But when a young couple in their thirties moved in, the house told another story: one of outdated 1980s renovations that left the interiors feeling disconnected and tired.

The homeowners turned to architect Wayne Adams of BarnesVanze Architects and designer Liz Mearns of Imagine Design. With CarrMichael Construction on board, the team reworked the floor plan, restored period details, and layered in a sense of modern playfulness. Today, the 4,000-square-foot home feels both classic and current, its historic bones enlivened with fresh energy.

Architect: BarnesVanze | Design: Liz Mearns, Imagine Design | Photography: Robert Radifera

Architecture Rooted in History

The team at BVA BarnesVanze Architects started by addressing the addition built in the ’80s. Oversized windows had thrown off the proportions of the house, so nearly every exterior wall was rebuilt to create a rhythm more in keeping with the original Federal architecture. Inside, the kitchen was opened to flow into the family room overlooking the backyard pool. A once-formal dining room was reimagined as part of a lively double parlor, while the primary suite was moved to the rear of the home, now complete with a Juliet balcony. The changes gave the house a sense of continuity that had been missing for decades.

A Palette of Old and New

For interiors, Liz Mearns of Imagine Design leaned into a high–low mix that feels approachable but layered. She drew from the couple’s love of London to incorporate playful English notes alongside American antiques and modern pieces. In the butler’s pantry, Sherwin-Williams’ Gale Force brings a moody edge, while the rest of the home balances softer whites with pattern and texture. A vintage marble-top chest from Domicile pairs with CB2 lighting; Moroccan rugs and Cole & Son wallpaper add global personality. Throughout, vintage and contemporary finds mingle in a way that feels collected rather than styled.

Rooms That Invite Living

The reimagined layout makes the home as practical as it is polished. The double parlor now works as both a living and dining space, drawing the couple in daily instead of sitting idle. The family room was designed for gathering, while the new primary suite offers a serene retreat with leafy views across the garden. Even utilitarian areas, like the stunning blue butler’s pantry tucked between the kitchen and parlor, add personality and function in equal measure.

A Historic Home with Fresh Perspective

Respecting the Federal architecture while layering in youthful details gave this house a fresh perspective. Original elements—stone fireplaces, hardwood floors, ten-foot ceilings—are still celebrated, but now they’re joined by a layout and furnishings that support the way the owners live today. It’s a Georgetown row house that carries its history forward while making room for fresh stories.

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