The stately mansion has the type of presence one would expect in an affluent part of Washington D.C.: traditional, elegant and tidy. Yet beyond the restrained presence from the curb, the stone façade and the four-column entrance is a residence that delivers in big ways.
Consider the mammoth size. This is not just a home but an estate with more than 15,000 square feet of living space. Although not apparent from the street, the main house has six levels. There’s a two-story pool house. The garage can accommodate four cars.
As for the location, 3101 Chain Bridge Road NW is in the sought-after neighborhood of Kent, which is filled with large, well-maintained homes in a variety of architecture styles. Close to shopping and city amenities, the tree-lined area has a suburban vibe. Yet the property is within 2 miles of the Washington National Cathedral and 5 miles from the White House.
Even the site amps up the home’s appeal. “This estate is built on one of the highest points in Washington DC,” says Long & Foster listing agent Megan Thiel, taking in views of the Washington Monument and the Capitol building beyond the treetops.
The gently sloping lot is just above Battery Kemble Park shielding the home from the prying eyes of neighbors and offering a buffer of greenery. “You can get away from it all,” Thiel says, “even in the midst of the bustling city.”
But high on the list of attractions has to be the many opportunities the property presents for entertaining on the main residence floor, the ballroom level, the roof terrace and poolside.
The 14,124-square-foot main house has large scale living and dining rooms off the grand central hall. Wainscoting, polished wood floors and chandeliers enhance the traditional feel.
The large gourmet kitchen, with stainless steel appliances, custom cabinets and breakfast nook, opens to a family room with a fireplace.
The primary suite, on the second floor, features a private balcony, spa-like bathroom with indoor and outdoor showers, jetted bathtub, dual vanity and multiple walk-in closets. A second living room, kitchenette and laundry complete the level. Throughout the living space are seven bedrooms and seven bathrooms.
Upstairs is the ballroom, connected to the basement prep kitchen by elevator. Stairs and the elevator connect the various floors and such spaces as an exercise room, sauna and wine cellar. A safe room could be created on the sub-basement level.
The rear terrace takes in park and pool views. The separate pool house is a complete accessory dwelling unit with its own living room, kitchen, bathroom, laundry, two fireplaces and basement.
The asking price is $10 million.