Description

Among the most distinguished residences in Upper Northwest Washington, 2155 Dunmore Lane NW represents a rare convergence of architectural pedigree, exceptional scale, and irreplaceable natural setting. Conceived by Barnes Vanze Architects, built by Zantzinger Inc., and featured in Home & Design magazine, this seven-bedroom estate commands one of the largest lots in Phillips Park, at .36 acres, directly adjacent to the protected woodland of Glover-Archbold Park.

Designed in the tradition of California Arts and Crafts architecture, the home's cedar-shingled facade, heavy timber framing, and steeply pitched rooflines rise from a stone foundation with the quiet authority of a landmark. Barnes Vanze designed the main deck a story and a half above grade, projecting into the tree canopy and creating an experience of elevation and immersion rarely found within the city limits. A cantilevered glass breakfast room extends this feeling further, its walls of glass dissolving the boundary between interior and forest. Porches, decks, and balconies at every level ensure the landscape is never far from view. Landscape design by Marion Oxford Dearth. A spacious two-car garage and geothermal heating and cooling complete the exterior profile.

A three-story foyer anchors the home with a sweeping white oak staircase, flanked by formal living and dining rooms where custom moldings and millwork set the tone. At the rear, the main level opens into a generous family room, kitchen, and cantilevered breakfast room unified beneath a continuous wood-beam ceiling. The living room fireplace is framed by a custom turquoise tile surround with a hand-painted cherry blossom motif, a moment of artistry that deserves a second look. Three fireplaces are distributed across the home's principal gathering spaces. An elevator serves all four levels. A Sonos sound system extends throughout.

The primary suite spans the full width of the second floor and is designed as a true retreat: dual walk-in closets, a cantilevered private balcony with views into the tree canopy, and hidden motorized blackout curtains that disappear entirely when not in use. The primary bathroom is appointed with heated tile floors, a towel warmer, dual vanities, a soaking tub, a separate shower, and Waterworks fixtures throughout. The three additional bedrooms are generously proportioned, each served by its own full bath. A dedicated laundry room with a full-size washer and dryer is also on this level.

The third floor offers two bedroom suites, a large walk-in cedar closet, and a quiet den or meditation room. The larger of the two bedrooms could serve comfortably as a second primary suite.

The lower level is among the most comprehensively finished in any Washington residence. A large family room with a fireplace and a wet bar anchors the entertaining program, opening to a private stone patio and the garden beyond a wall of glass doors. The fitness suite commands direct views of Glover-Archbold Park and connects to the SwimEx resistance pool room, which opens to the outside through folding glass doors. A 300-bottle wine room, a half bath, a second full laundry room, a dedicated bedroom suite with a full bath, and a large storage room complete the level.

Phillips Park is one of Washington's most private and architecturally distinguished enclaves, home to a small collection of custom estates. The community maintains on-site security and cameras throughout, providing a level of discretion and peace of mind that few addresses in the city can offer.

For all its wooded seclusion, the location is exceptionally convenient. Downtown Washington is minutes away, and both Reagan National and Dulles International airports are readily accessible. Georgetown and the city's finest dining and cultural institutions round out a setting that requires no compromise.

The breadth of what has been designed, built, and finished here is difficult to convey on a page. A visit is the only way to do it justice.