overlooking the potomac river in the heart of washington’s coveted palisades community, 5521 potomac avenue nw is a beautifully restored arts & crafts home that captures sweeping water views while preserving the character of its early-20th-century origins. originally built in 1915, the residence underwent a comprehensive renovation and expansion in 2011 in collaboration with the levine group , carefully rebuilding the home’s infrastructure while honoring the architectural details that give it its enduring charm. from the street, the home presents a timeless silhouette, anchored by a welcoming full-width front porch overlooking surrounding greenery and distant river vistas. a winding flagstone path bisects the circular front lawn framed by elegant landscaping and hardscaping, creating a graceful approach to the towering three-story facade.
the interiors are a showcase of expert workmanship and thoughtful preservation, with custom millwork reclaimed from an antique pennsylvania barn reworked into a radiant golden hue. high ceilings, graceful archways, and stained glass by local artisans establish a sense of warmth and authenticity from a bygone era. many original double-hung windows were painstakingly restored with updated mechanics to preserve their historic proportions while improving functionality.
the main level unfolds through inviting living spaces designed for both everyday comfort and entertaining. an elegant entry hall centers around the floating staircase and opens into generously proportioned formal living and dining rooms with effortless flow. the former features built-ins crafted by jaeger & ernst master carpenters framing the archway, while the latter is anchored by a fireplace with vintage tile surround. in a nod to contemporary living, the kitchen serves as the heart of the home. custom inset cabinetry flush with the coffered ceiling complements a professional appliance suite including a commercial glass-front sub-zero refrigerator, wolf range, viking convection microwave, and warming drawer. a substantial wraparound island opens into the ethereal family room, where a custom built-in tansu and wall of glass flood the space with natural light. a galley-style office and generous mudroom complete the main level.
at the top of the staircase, a gallery offers sweeping river views and leads into the primary suite occupying its own private wing. via custom glass pocket doors, the bedroom opens into a dressing room with full cabinet-grade storage and island, followed by a spa-like bath with freestanding tub and walk-in shower. two additional bedroom suites are generously proportioned, while the dramatic staircase ascends to the spectacular top level, where three additional bedrooms share a common hall bath. the pièce de résistance is a large sitting room opening onto a covered balcony with unparalleled vistas of the verdant canopy and roaring rapids below.
the lower level comprises a recreation room with rough-ins for a future kitchenette and laundry, optional fitness area, full bath, and ample storage.
a detached studio is tucked away beside the private parking pad. vaulted ceilings, skylights, and built-ins with fridge elevate the space to the lofty standard set by the main residence. modern systems include landscape irrigation, outdoor lighting, and surround sound to create a premium lifestyle.
peerless in its blend of style, character, and quality of transformation, 5521 potomac avenue nw is a distinctive celebration of washington’s architectural heritage while providing the comfort and functionality of modern living, all with commanding river views.
