3045 Davenport NW

Description

Set discreetly within the heart of Forest Hills, this distinguished 1937 English Tudor Revival occupies a beautifully landscaped lot of nearly half an acre, offering an exceptional sense of privacy just minutes from the center of Washington. Set well back from the street and approached by a stone walkway; the residence is framed by mature trees, established gardens, and a gated driveway. Encompassing over 5,200 square feet, the home has been thoughtfully re-imagined over time while preserving the architectural integrity, craftsmanship, and enduring character that define its Tudor origins. A handsome brick façade, half-timbering, and steep cross-gables establish the home's architectural presence. A gracious foyer introduces a sequence of richly detailed formal rooms distinguished by substantial millwork, exposed beams, crown moldings, and carefully considered materials. The spacious living room is anchored by a restored fireplace, while the adjoining open dining room creates an elegant progression for entertaining. The kitchen was completely renovated and extended in collaboration with BarnesVanze Architects, pairing the character of the original residence with the functionality of a modern chef's kitchen. A suite of appliances, generous cabinetry, and hand-scraped oak floors complement an adjoining mudroom finished with reclaimed bluestone slabs. Handmade reclaimed-oak doors, custom moldings, and a oak fireplace surround further enrich the main level, lending warmth and a sense of craftsmanship rarely found in contemporary renovations. Among the home's most inviting spaces is the richly paneled library, where built-in bookshelves create an intimate setting for reading, working, or quiet repose. A powder room completes the main level. The interiors transition naturally to the property's remarkable grounds. An expansive stone terrace with a fountain overlooks a broad, level lawn surrounded by mature plantings and established gardens. A large stone and slate garage defines the garden space. Extensive hardscaping incorporates approximately century-old hand-carved large bluestone slabs, and a tall garden wall completes the privacy. Beyond the main terrace, a stone outdoor fireplace and adjoining sitting area create a secluded destination within the garden—equally suited to intimate entertaining or quiet evenings outdoors. A vintage cobblestone driveway complements the historic character of the residence and grounds. Upstairs, the primary suite was comprehensively renovated and features a spacious bedroom, walk-in cedar closet, and beautifully appointed bath with dual vanity, shower, and heated mosaic flooring. Three additional bedrooms and a hall bath complete the second level. The uppermost floor offers another bedroom overlooking the grounds, a full bath, and dual closets, providing exceptional flexibility as guest quarters, an office, or a private retreat. The finished lower level extends the home's living space with an atmospheric reclaimed wood paneled family room centered around a fireplace, along with a full bath, additional storage, laundry room, and workshop. A staircase provides direct access to the detached rear yard. The residence reflects decades of thoughtful stewardship. Major improvements include a carriage house garage, restored and refinished floors, replacement windows, fireplace restoration, extensive renovations to the bedroom levels and primary suite, the expansion and renovation of the kitchen and service spaces, and the introduction of reclaimed oak, bluestone, and other materials chosen specifically to complement the home's historic architecture. BarnesVanze Architects guided the renovations, with work executed by respected builders Zantzinger and Corcoran. Surrounded by the serene, tree-lined streets of Forest Hills, the property achieves a rare balance between a private country-like setting and proximity to the city.