511 Queen Street
Alexandria, VA 22314

Step into a world of timeless elegance and contemporary luxury with this charming historic brick "flounder" in Old Town. Set on a rare 4,000 sf lot and surrounded by natural light on 3 sides, this home and its meticulously curated gardens provide a serene retreat in the heart of an urban village. Originally built in the late 1700s, it has undergone a comprehensive restoration and renovation over the past 20 years, all while maintaining the authenticity of its historical character to the most minute detail. As you cross the front door's threshold, you are immediately transported to a bygone era. The architectural features, design elements, and overall ambiance evoke a sense of history and nostalgia that seamlessly blend with modern touches. The unique entrance door, handcrafted with pegs - not a single nail - from wormy chestnut dating back to 1800, and the solid brass dolphin door knocker that reflects the maritime heritage of Alexandria are just a few examples of the exquisite care and attention given to this home. The interior is equally captivating, with 5 restored fireplaces, original heart pine floors, and many other original features brought back to modern standards. Upstairs, improvements such as the custom built-in marble topped dresser, comfortably renovated sunroom/office, and updated bath offer functionality and character. The first level of the addition smoothly unites history, craftsmanship, and culinary artistry. This harmonious fusion of design influences reflect the owner's culinary career, artistic education in the US and Italy, and travel through Europe and the UK, creating a space that is both aesthetically pleasing and inspiring. Modeled after the British "unfitted" kitchen, it begins with the eat-in dining area, complete with original colonial fireplace, restored to its former glory and effortlessly integrated into the space. The kitchen is outfitted with high-end appliances and chef-designed storage areas adjacent to the center island. This island is the heart of the kitchen and will surely delight the most discriminating chef. Composed of three different work surfaces, the island offers a kidney-shaped Carrara marble surface for pasta and pastry, a slate counter and hammered nickel sink for vegetable prep, and a kidney-shaped maple and walnut cutting board for preparing meats and fish. Woods from Europe and the US create the custom cabinetry designed to fit all of your kitchen tools and equipment. No doubt it will become your perfect setting to cook, entertain, and spend evenings with friends and family. The den is situated at the far end and offers a cozy, inviting space to entertain friends, unwind, read, or enjoy a relaxing cup of tea. Its proximity to the work area allows for guests to engage with the chef as their meal is prepared, with a serene view of the garden through the French door. The addition's back staircase leads to an incomparable Primary Suite. Its bedroom features reclaimed wormy chestnut floorboards, a Juliet balcony overlooking the extensive rear garden, and a meticulously restored paneled pine door with a hand-forged handle and knocker from the early 1800s. The Primary Bath is an award winning masterpiece in contemporary design, featuring a custom-made Japanese stainless steel soaking tub with two waterfall faucets, glass-enclosed rain and hand-held showers, and heated tumbled slate floors. The transition room from the original home to the addition on this second level was converted into a spacious walk-in closet with custom cabinetry, ample shelving, clothes hanging sections, and a dedicated laundry area. This luxurious historic home is truly an individual, creative interpretation, meshing history and contemporary elements, offering a one- of-a-kind, artistically-inspired living space. Designed to create an enchanting, peaceful retreat amidst an oasis of lush gardens and the sounds and scents of nature, it will surely leave a lasting impression on all who visit it.