Fessenden House is being offered for sale for the first time since its construction, and is known as one of the grandest homes in the Washington, D.C. metropolitan area. Fessenden House exemplifies the finest elements of 18th Century Neoclassical architecture, as it reflects authentic inspirations of the respected 18th century British architects Robert and James Adam. They were well-known as those who best defined the essence of 18th century neo-classical architecture.
Robert Adam, especially, was one of the most important British architects working in the Neo-Classical style. He was a main force in the development of a unified style that extended beyond architecture and interiors to include both the fixed and moveable objects in a room. He incorporated design ideas from ancient Greece and Rome into his forms and decoration. His famous London houses include Kenwood House, Osterley Park, and Syon House.
In 1754 he embarked on a European tour, spending five years in France and Italy visiting classical sites and studying architecture. On his return Adam established his own practice in London with his brother James. Although classical architecture was already becoming popular, Adam developed his own style, known as the Adam style or Adamesque. This style was influenced by classical design that is reflected at Fessenden House.
Fessenden House integrates Neo-Classical architecture as well as finishes of the rooms, ceilings, fireplaces, fixtures, and furnishings, all of which result in residential spaces that flow easily from one area to another. Grand formal rooms provide ample entertaining space, with a connoisseur’s wine cellar and tasting room. Fessenden House offers seven bedrooms including a master suite, secondary bedrooms, an ample guest suite, and private staff quarters. An elevator along with two grand stair hallways and rotundas complement the interior architecture of the home.
Fessenden House is being offered for sale by Long & Foster Real Estate, Inc., with global marketing by Christie’s International Real Estate.
It is designed by Leon Chatelain of Chatelain Architects in collaboration with Interior Designer Antony Childs. The grounds were designed by award winning landscape architect James Urban (ASLA Medal of Excellence), allowing the home to be enveloped by the serene beauty of both formal and informal English gardens.
Additionally, the residence incorporates terraces and a sweeping curved staircase to overlook a swimming pool, pool house, and loggia with acre views of park land. The result is a refined, 18th century neo-classical example of an outstanding estate home, in the Forest Hills neighborhood of Washington, D.C. Located just a few blocks from Marjorie Merriweather Post’s famed Hillwood Estate, east of Connecticut Avenue, Fessenden House is less than fifteen minutes from downtown Washington, D.C. and the White House.
Shown by appointment only through Long & Foster/ CHRISTIE’S International Real Estate. Nancy Itteilag 202-905-7762
