The James G. Blaine Mansion, a striking Gilded Age architectural masterpiece in Washington, blends historic grandeur with modern luxury. Built in the late 19th century and meticulously renovated between 2006-2009, this 7,000-square-foot residence sits atop 8,000+ square feet of versatile commercial space at Embassy Row’s gateway. Featuring six fireplaces, exquisite millwork by architect Benjamin A. Van Dusen, two private terraces, and a three-story underground garage, it offers unparalleled elegance and functionality. The rooftop boasts a 46-foot lap pool with panoramic views. Listed at $19,995,000, this iconic property harmonizes historic charm and contemporary amenities for a unique living and business experience.

Urban Neighborhood View

A mix of historic and modern architecture characterizes this vibrant cityscape, with a notable red-brick Victorian-style building prominently in the foreground. The streets below are lined with mature trees, showing autumn foliage in shades of gold, orange, and brown. Beyond the intricate rooflines and classic façades of older buildings, newer structures with flat roofs and large windows add contrast. The backdrop features rolling hills dotted with dense trees, extending to a distant skyline that includes a large gothic church with twin towers. Light and shadow interplay throughout, enhancing the texture and depth of the scene.

Outdoor Terrace Seating

The terrace displays red brick walls with historic architectural details such as arched window recesses and stone sills, contrasting with contemporary elements. The space contains multiple black wrought iron dining tables with oval and round tops, each paired with matching chairs featuring beige cushions. Large white umbrellas provide shade over the seating areas. Terra cotta pots with small trimmed shrubs line the perimeter, adding greenery to the urban setting. The flooring consists of wide, square stone tiles in a pinkish hue, complementing the brick facade. The overall aesthetic combines classic brick craftsmanship with timeless outdoor furnishings for a sophisticated and inviting atmosphere.

Historic Corner Building

A grand, historic building sits prominently at a busy urban intersection, showcasing striking Victorian or Queen Anne architectural style with elaborate brickwork and strong vertical chimney stacks. The steep slate roof is punctuated by dormer windows and ornamental finials, adding to the stately presence. The ground floor is modernized with large storefront windows and a neutral stone facade housing a restaurant with outdoor seating. Warm interior lighting contrasts with the early evening sky, highlighting the building’s intricate window trims and decorative cornices. Adjacent modern buildings emphasize the contrast between historic charm and contemporary design.

Rooftop Pool and Lounge

A narrow rooftop swimming pool bordered by reddish-pink paving tiles creates a striking contrast with the clear blue water. Stainless steel pool ladders and a modest side grill station add functional amenities. Minimalist light gray walls and clean architectural lines provide a modern, urban vibe. At the pool’s far end, a cozy seating area includes contemporary outdoor furniture, offering a relaxed lounge space beneath a simple wooden pergola. Leafless trees in large planters and nearby building rooftops blend urban elements with a touch of nature, set against a bright blue sky with wispy clouds.

Rooftop Patio and Pool

Spacious rooftop patio with reddish stone tiles surrounds a small rectangular pool marked at 3 feet 4 inches depth. A modern pergola with wooden framing shelters a light wood sectional sofa adorned with light blue cushions and neutral throw pillows. Next to the lounging area, there is a wooden dining table accompanied by matching chairs and shaded by a large umbrella. Large square planters with leafless trees create vertical interest against the backdrop of urban buildings under a clear early evening sky. The design combines natural materials with clean lines for a relaxed, elegant outdoor space.

Upper Window Detail

The view focuses on an upper-story window framed by a decorative pediment with intricate carved patterns, highlighting craftsmanship. The window itself features a dark blue or black frame with small geometric metal railings on the outside, adding an elegant touch. The surrounding brickwork is a warm red-orange, augmented by detailed brick layering below the window, contributing depth and texture. Autumnal tree branches with orange and yellow leaves softly surround the architecture, adding a natural contrast against the bright blue sky, enhancing both the historic charm and seasonal atmosphere of the home.

Music Room

Rich wood paneling extends halfway up the walls, complementing the matching crown molding and door frames, creating a warm, inviting atmosphere. The dark hardwood floors anchor the space, highlighted by an ornate, multicolor Persian rug. Centered in the room, a black grand piano and matching upholstered bench invite creativity. A classic white fireplace with a black hearth fires softly beneath an ornate gilded mirror, adding elegance and light reflection. On the opposite wall, a sleek glass and metal console table holds two white ceramic lamps, framed by muted art that balances the traditional elements with subtle modernity.

Music Room with Skylight

Rich wood wainscoting and crown molding frame this elegant music room, featuring a sleek black grand piano positioned on a large, ornate Persian rug with intricate patterns in reds, blues, and creams. A pair of muted green upholstered armchairs with matching ottoman sit near a small round black table, creating a cozy seating area. The ceiling has a striking oval skylight with wood trim, infusing natural light from above. Walls are adorned with tastefully framed artwork, and brass wall sconces with white shades add a warm glow. A glass and iron console table with ceramic lamps adds to the refined ambiance.

Living Room View

A spacious living room framed by a large wooden archway with rich walnut paneling and matching wall sconces adds warmth and historic charm. The room’s color palette centers on creamy white walls and ceiling with crown molding details, contrasted by an orange-red sofa centerpiece with a decorative skirt at its base. Two beige armchairs flank the sofa, paired with matching side tables and crystal-clear glass lamps. A white mantel fireplace is flanked by symmetrical recessed windows with built-in cushioned window seats featuring patterned throw pillows. A minimalist landscape painting hangs above the fireplace, enhancing the room’s balanced serenity.

Living Room Seating Area

Bright and inviting space with soft cream walls and intricate crown molding framing a high ceiling. Two built-in window seats with patterned burnt orange cushions flank a white classic fireplace topped with a minimalist landscape painting. A mix of neutral upholstered armchairs and loveseat with floral pillows create an intimate grouping around a dark wooden round coffee table adorned with a clear vase of fresh orange roses. The foreground features a bold red sofa adding vibrant contrast. A tall wooden grandfather clock on the right adds historic character, while well-placed artwork enhances warmth and balance.

Living Room

Spacious living area with a blend of warm and neutral tones. The room centers around a red upholstered sofa paired with cream armchairs and a matching loveseat, placed atop an off-white area rug. Hardwood floors provide rich contrast beneath the soft furnishings. A white built-in bookcase along the far wall holds an extensive collection of books and framed photos, with several candlesticks positioned above. The walls are painted in a delicate cream, adorned with two paintings depicting still life and sunflowers. Classic white crown molding enhances the ceiling, where a simple pendant light hangs. French doors with glass panels and brass hinges frame the entry.

Dining Room and Entry

Rectangular wooden dining table with a polished surface anchors the center, surrounded by eight rich brown leather chairs. Walls are covered in a muted sage green finish complementing the matching area rug underneath. A curved glass-fronted china cabinet with wood accents sits against one wall, displaying delicate glassware. The room is illuminated by a large, modern pendant light hanging from the white crown-molded ceiling. Floor-to-ceiling curtains frame a window, allowing natural light to brighten the space. French doors with multiple glass panes open into an adjacent sitting room, connecting the two areas seamlessly.

Library Sitting Area

Rich wood dominates the space with an expansive built-in bookshelf that spans the wall, filled with a collection of neatly organized books. Below the shelves, warm cabinetry with a small built-in sink adds functional charm. Two deep, olive-green leather armchairs with rolled arms and nailhead trim face a patterned upholstered ottoman, doubling as a coffee table, which holds a wicker tray and magazines. The color scheme combines earthy browns, reds from the regal curtains, and the green of the chairs, creating a cozy, classic ambiance. Traditional carpet and crown molding enhance the historic elegance of the room.

Home Office with Fireplace

The room serves as a home office distinguished by warm golden-yellow walls and white crown molding that adds historic elegance. A traditional fireplace with a wooden mantel and black tile hearth anchors the space, topped by a framed “Be The Change” graphic artwork. Two cozy window seats with patterned cushions reside in deep window alcoves, offering inviting natural light from the large sash windows with cityscape views. The office furniture includes a dark wood L-shaped desk with a sleek task lamp, decorative hourglasses, and a comfortable black leather swivel chair. A matching leather lounge chair and ottoman rest on a light beige checkered carpet that ties the room’s warm and sophisticated atmosphere together.

Dining Area Seating

A cozy dining nook outlined by rich wood paneling that frames a built-in bench upholstered in a muted striped fabric with complementary throw pillows. A sleek wooden table is accompanied by four modern burnt-orange chairs, blending contemporary seating with classic surroundings. Above, a large pendant light with a white pleated shade hangs centered, adding soft illumination. The upper wall features a serene panoramic landscape painting of misty hills and trees, adding a calming natural element. The space balances warm, earthy tones with clean lines and a mix of traditional and modern design elements.

Kitchen and Dining Area

A spacious kitchen island with a dual-material countertop—light wood and polished stone—anchors the room. The island includes built-in cabinetry and a modern sink fixture. Surrounding the island, rich wooden cabinetry and a professional-grade stainless steel stove with red knobs evoke a blend of traditional and contemporary styles. Exposed wood ceiling beams echo the cabinetry’s warmth. A cozy dining nook with leather chairs and a cushioned bench sits adjacent, next to a wooden table, under a white pendant lamp. A fireplace framed by tiled accents and built-in bookshelves flanks two tall windows, letting natural light brighten the airy space.

Covered Patio Seating

A spacious covered patio area with warm terra-cotta brick arches and walls, creating a cozy and inviting outdoor space. The flooring consists of large square stone tiles, enhancing the natural, earthy vibe. Seating includes cushioned armchairs and a beige sofa adorned with patterned throw pillows for comfort and style, accompanied by a wooden coffee table holding decorative items and a book. At the far end, a large dining table with a black umbrella is surrounded by cushioned chairs, perfect for outdoor meals. Tall planters with greenery and climbing lattices add a refreshing touch of nature.

Covered Patio Seating

A cozy covered patio area painted in a warm terracotta tone complements the rustic brick detail visible on the left. Furniture includes a beige cushioned sofa and matching armchairs with sleek black frames, centered around a simple rectangular wooden coffee table. A decorative black wall fountain with ornate detailing adds an elegant touch to the terracotta wall. Blue-gray framed French doors with multiple glass panes open inward to an interior space featuring honey-toned wood floors, a patterned red area rug, and a red upholstered bench beneath a large round mirrored wall accent, blending indoor and outdoor aesthetics harmoniously.

Wooden Staircase Detail

A wooden staircase captured from above shows polished hardwood steps complemented by a beige carpet runner secured with brass rods, adding a touch of elegance and comfort. The stairs are bordered by sturdy, vertical wooden balusters that support a smooth handrail, creating a refined and timeless look. Surrounding the staircase, the walls are adorned with rich wood paneling arranged in rectangular patterns, adding depth and texture to the space. The warm wood tones create a cozy ambiance, reflecting classic craftsmanship and attention to detail in this intimate transitional area of the home.

Home Office

High vaulted ceilings accentuate the spaciousness of this home office, painted in soft beige tones that complement the rich wood paneling and built-in bookshelves. A classic dark wood desk anchors the room, featuring elegant moldings and multiple drawers, paired with a neutral-tone office chair. Open shelves lining the lower wall and a built-in hutch display artful decor pieces, books, and trophies, with an American flag for a patriotic touch. A blue and gray plaid area rug adds warmth and pattern underfoot, while a small round window near the ceiling allows natural daylight to softly illuminate the space.

Master Bedroom Seating Area

Neutral tones dominate the room, highlighted by cream-colored walls and carpet that create a serene and spacious atmosphere. A large bed with a tufted beige headboard is dressed in white and soft blue linens. Above the bed, two framed bird illustrations add delicate visual interest. Beside the bed stand two wooden nightstands with modern lamps, casting warm light. The room’s vaulted ceiling accentuates vertical space, with a round window near the top lending natural light. A cozy armchair and ottoman in matching neutral upholstery offer a relaxing nook. Soft, understated artwork complements the calm aesthetic.

Bathroom Corner Shower

The bathroom exhibits a bright and clean aesthetic dominated by white and light beige tones. The corner shower features glass walls with a metal frame and subway tiles in a classic white finish with light grout lines, creating a crisp and modern look. The white tile floor extends throughout the space, harmonizing with the white cabinetry below a long countertop. The countertop holds an under-mounted sink with a sleek faucet. Above it, mirrored cabinets provide ample storage and reflect light. A small window offers natural illumination, enhancing the airy feel of the high angled ceiling and minimalist decor.

Home Gym Area

A compact home gym located in a room with sloped ceilings and soft cream-colored walls. The flooring is covered in bright blue carpeting, providing a vibrant contrast. The space contains various fitness equipment including a treadmill, a multifunctional weight bench with pulleys, and multiple free weights organized along a rack. The room is well-lit by recessed lighting and a skylight, which brightens the otherwise tucked-away attic-like space. Structural columns and angled ceilings create a unique architectural character, blending functionality with a cozy, streamlined workout environment.

Sauna Interior

The space is a compact sauna room constructed entirely of smooth, warm-toned wood panels on the walls, ceiling, and benches, creating a unified natural aesthetic. The interior design emphasizes clean horizontal lines with layered wooden benches along two walls, inviting relaxation. Subtle built-in lighting runs along the upper back wall, providing soft illumination and enhancing the wood’s natural grain. A small wooden backrest and sauna tools are positioned in the corner, maintaining the minimalist and functional vibe. The warm lighting and wood tones evoke a cozy, rustic ambiance ideal for unwinding.

Reception Area

Tall ceilings with intricate coffered detailing crown this stately reception area. Soft beige walls contrast the rich warm wood tones of the reception desk and hardwood floors. White wainscoting with raised paneling and decorative molding adds historic character, complemented by Corinthian columns flanking doorways. Two modern circular chandeliers illuminate the space with a balanced glow. A long pale patterned carpet runner extends down the hallway, guiding traffic flow. Seating includes mid-century style chairs with wooden arms and neutral upholstery. Potted plants add a touch of greenery, enhancing the room’s welcoming atmosphere with a blend of classical and contemporary design elements.

Living Room Seating Area

Soft beige walls and white wainscoting create a calm and elegant backdrop for this living room. The seating arrangement includes a curved sofa and two armchairs in muted taupe fabric, accented with floral and patterned pillows. A dark wood coffee table with gently curved legs rests on a large, intricately patterned area rug in complementary neutral tones. The white mantel fireplace adds warmth and a classic touch, enhanced by an autumnal forest painting above it. Crown molding and a graceful archway lead into an adjacent dining space, where a round table and black executive-style chairs convey a formal yet inviting ambience.

Conference Room Details

Rectangular wooden table surrounded by nine black leather office chairs with armrests and casters sits on an ornate, earth-toned rug. The room is brightened by large double-hung windows with white molding, allowing natural light to flood in. Two long, sleek linear pendant lights hang from the high ceiling with detailed crown molding. A framed abstract painting with red, black, and gray tones hangs centered above a non-functional white fireplace mantel. To the right, a dark wooden cabinet supports a TV displaying charts, while a potted green plant adds a touch of nature.

Office with Wood Paneling

Dark wood paneling with intricate square detailing lines the lower walls, contrasting elegantly with soft beige upper walls and white trim near the ceiling. Three large, vertically oriented windows framed in rich wood flood the room with natural light, partially diffused by white cellular shades. The flooring is a warm-toned hardwood that complements the woodwork. Two matching dark wood desks and black leather-upholstered office chairs create a formal yet inviting workspace. Contemporary abstract art with muted green, yellow, and beige tones adds a modern touch, balanced by fresh white floral arrangements and a leafy potted plant near the window.

Conference Room Details

Solid wood paneling with a rich mahogany finish runs halfway up the walls, complementing the light beige paint above. A large, modern rectangular black table dominates the center, surrounded by eight white ergonomic office chairs with golden frames and caster wheels. Two vintage-style world maps framed in wood hang symmetrically on opposite walls, contributing a historic touch. Overhead, sleek tubular pendant lights illuminate the space, suspended from a pristine white coffered ceiling. The floor combines warm hardwood with a large, intricately patterned cream rug under the table, adding softness and contrast. A tall leafy plant in a white planter adds greenery near the doorway with French doors.

Hallway with Fireplace

Wide hallway with polished hardwood flooring extends through a series of doorways. A white painted fireplace mantel with subtle molding anchors one side of the passage, enhancing the classic ambiance. Walls are painted in a soft beige tone above white wainscoting, adding a refined layered texture. Door and window casings are detailed with traditional trim and molding, emphasizing the historic character. Two framed artworks hang on the walls—one above the fireplace and another beside a white door with vintage-style hardware. Natural light filters through the distant window, illuminating the space with warmth and clarity.

Home Office Space

A stately home office with classic elegance, including a large wooden desk with intricate panel detailing facing two upholstered, tufted chairs on casters. The room is framed by floor-to-ceiling wooden bookcases filled with leather-bound books, a globe, and decorative pieces. The soft cream walls are punctuated by an arched window and French doors that open onto a balcony, allowing ample natural light. A traditional patterned rug in muted beige tones anchors the furniture on polished wooden floors. Accents include a potted plant and a framed cityscape painting, blending refined vintage charm with contemporary touches.

Dining Room Details

An oval marble dining table with subtle gray veining anchors the space, surrounded by six curved mid-century modern upholstered chairs with wooden legs. The room benefits from natural sunlight streaming in through a tall window framed with detailed molding and a wooden floor with warm tones. The walls are painted a soft off-white, accentuating the room’s high ceilings and crown molding. Artworks and framed certificates add interest above a sleek wooden sideboard beneath a mounted flat-screen TV displaying a serene beach scene. The brushed metal linear pendant light hanging above the table provides a modern touch, balancing the classic architectural details.

Listing Agent: Daniel Heider of TTR Sotheby’s International Realty via Zillow