7 Decadent Details That Revived A Classic D.C. Mansion
Hidden among Washington D.C.’s historic neighborhoods stands a 1926 mansion that recently underwent a breathtaking transformation. Once filled with mismatched glamour and architectural confusion, this 8,750-square-foot home has been reborn through the vision of Fowlkes Studio.
The designers faced the challenge of honoring the home’s heritage while creating a functional space for a modern family of five.
1. Steel-and-Glass Room Divider Creates Dual Living Spaces
Soaring ceilings and expansive floor plans can feel overwhelming without thoughtful division. The custom steel-and-glass partition brilliantly splits the vast living area into two distinct zones without sacrificing the mansion’s open feel.
One side now functions as a cozy library perfect for quiet reading, while the other serves as a social lounge area. Light flows freely through the glass panels, maintaining visual connection while defining separate purposes.
2. A Dining Room That Channels Global Elegance
The dining room in this reimagined D.C. mansion is a masterclass in bold design and personal storytelling. Wrapped in Mind the Gap wallpaper and painted in Hague Blue by Farrow & Ball, the space pulses with energy and sophistication.
At its center sits a striking plaster and fiberglass table, ordered sight unseen from Belgium, a daring choice that paid off beautifully. The eclectic mix of furnishings and artwork subtly reflects the homeowners’ many travels, turning the room into a vibrant tribute to global inspiration and fearless design.
3. Handcrafted Millwork Unifies Every Room
Craftsmen spent months creating custom millwork that flows seamlessly from room to room. Each piece was designed to honor traditional techniques while incorporating modern functionality for today’s family.
Intricate crown moldings frame ceilings while built-in bookshelves and cabinetry maximize storage without disrupting the historical aesthetic. The consistent woodwork creates a visual thread connecting diverse spaces, from formal dining areas to casual family rooms.
4. Peachy Pink Cabinetry Warms The Heart Of The Home
Bold yet sophisticated, the kitchen’s peachy pink cabinetry transforms what was once a dreary cooking space into a joyful gathering spot. The unexpected color choice brings personality and warmth while maintaining an elegant atmosphere.
Morning light makes the cabinets glow, creating an inviting ambiance for family breakfasts. Even during Washington’s gray winters, this kitchen remains cheerful and bright, proving that historic homes can embrace color without sacrificing sophistication.
5. Reclaimed Marble Creates Heritage Kitchen Floor
Salvaged from European buildings, three distinct types of reclaimed marble tiles form a sophisticated checkerboard pattern in the kitchen. Each stone carries centuries of history, adding authentic character impossible to replicate with new materials.
Paris Ceramics sourced these rare pieces specifically for this project. The varied patina and subtle color variations create depth and movement across the floor, anchoring modern appliances in old-world luxury.
6. A Hidden Terrace That Balances Privacy And Playful Elegance
One of the standout features in the Fowlkes Studio renovation is the secluded terrace tucked just off the primary bathroom, a serene retreat designed for quiet moments and morning rituals. Shielded by mature trees and tall planters, the space offers complete privacy without sacrificing openness.
The custom-painted steel railing by Metal Specialties introduces a playful geometric pattern that frames the view rather than obstructing it, adding a touch of artistry to the outdoor escape.
7. Disguised Radiator Transforms Into Elegant Bookshelf
Old homes often come with heating challenges. Rather than removing the primary bedroom’s original radiator, designers brilliantly concealed it within a custom inset bookshelf that appears completely intentional.
The clever cover allows heat to circulate efficiently while providing display space for cherished books and mementos. This thoughtful solution preserves the mansion’s historical heating system while eliminating the eyesore of exposed radiators, perfectly balancing form and function.
