Christian Zapatka Architects (photo by Peter Evans)
Awkwardly situated between an apartment building and a single-family house in DC’s Forest Hills neighborhood, a speculative home designed by Christian Zapatka had its challenges. “The house needed to introduce the leafy neighborhood beyond, but still stand up to its multi-story neighbor,” Zapatka explains. He conceived a four-story, 7,500-square-foot structure boasting classic elements in keeping with the traditional neighborhood, but with a contemporary sensibility. Steep roof profiles signify iconic gables while metal roofing lends a modern touch. Tall windows and doors frame views and fill the interiors with light. By having the front door at the narrow end the middle of the house gets sweeping views to the front and back; a rear masonry terrace extends the living space outdoors.
Christian Zapatka Architects
1656 33rd St NW, Washington, DC 20007
202-333-2735 • christianzapatka.com