Continuously Becoming

Georgetown, DC • Interior Renovation

Architecture is often perceived as permanent and timeless; however, it is, in fact, temporal, constantly changing over time as materials deteriorate, technology advances, and lifestyles evolve. Pinehurst and its design partners had the privilege of renovating a 1868 Victorian-styled home, which serves as an example of a structure that has evolved over time, continuously becoming something new. Our renovation goals were to preserve the home's original historical features while adapting the space to meet our client's aesthetic preferences and lifestyle needs.

The project involved interior renovations and structural modifications, including a complete kitchen renovation featuring a butler's pantry and a spiral staircase leading to the second-floor family room, a redesigned dining room entrance, updated bathrooms, and renovations to the first-floor powder room and second-floor laundry room. Throughout the house, the original hardwood floors were refinished to match the species, size, and finish of the existing wood.

One of the most significant challenges was removing the masonry fireplace in the kitchen to create additional space for the new design. Collaborating with a structural engineer, we removed the second-floor fireplace, which enabled the installation of structural steelwork, shoring, and needle pinning necessary to support the upper chimney that extended through the third-floor bedroom to the roof. Once completed, we installed a new hearth and fireplace on the second floor, and the kitchen gained additional space for appliances.

By using natural materials, replicating existing moldings and other original features, and employing considerable ingenuity, we created a dynamic balance between the past and the present. We believe this home will continue to evolve for generations, reflecting the time and essence of its inhabitants.‍

Architecture: BarnesVanze Architects, Inc.
Interior Design: Lisa Vandenburgh Ltd.
Photography: Jenn Verrier
Styling: Limonata Creative