The Alexander Graham Bell House | Step into a Gilded Age fantasy with this extraordinary Greek Revival corner residence, built in 1854 and once home to Alexander Graham Bell and his family. Steeped in history and architectural splendor, this six-bedroom, six full and two half-bath Georgetown estate is a masterwork of 19th-century elegance, meticulously preserved and thoughtfully updated.
A Grand Historic Interior
Spanning four gracious levels, the home is centered around a sweeping mahogany staircase rising beneath a stained-glass skylight. Echoes of Upstairs/Downstairs living abound—from working call bells connecting principal rooms to the kitchen, to grapevine and acanthus-leaf moldings, faux bois doors, paneled window shutters, and intricate brass hardware.
The twin parlors—perfect for formal entertaining—feature marble fireplaces with carved acorn details, gilded crown moldings and chandelier medallions. Stained-glass pocket doors lead into the formal dining room, where striped wood floors extend into a ballroom-like space framed by Palladian triple-hung windows that open to the terrace garden and fountain. Period chandeliers, cut-crystal sconces, and etched glass fixtures complete the unified decorative scheme. The main level half-bath features an antique Edward Johns & Co sink, period high-tank commode, and opaline glass light fixtures.
Chef’s Kitchen & Terraced Garden
The light-filled, eat-in kitchen blends historic charm with modern functionality. Anchored by a wood-burning fireplace, it includes Wolf and Sub-Zero appliances, a mix of butcher block and stone counters, and fully functional original call bells. French doors open directly to the lush, walled terrace garden—an urban sanctuary complete with mature plantings and a stone fountain.
Private Quarters & Lavish Suites
The original second-floor primary bedroom is bathed in natural light and adjoins a marble-and-tile ensuite bath with Waterworks fixtures and a towel warmer. A nearby study/library features a marble fireplace and access to a canopied terrace, as well as a concealed Eastlake-style wet bar outfitted with a copper sink, pomegranate-motif painted tiles, and herringbone cabinetry.
A later addition brings a private octagonal primary suite enhanced with opaline glass tiebacks, floral plaster medallion, and dual bathrooms. One features a marble sink, tile shower, and Waterworks fittings; the other offers a large marble vanity within a spacious dressing room, complete with a built-in ironing station and Jacuzzi tub.
On the third floor, two additional bedrooms each offer marble fireplaces, custom built-ins, and full ensuite baths with clawfoot tubs, pedestal sinks, and antique light fixtures.
Lower Level
Accessible via private staircases, the fully equipped lower level includes a two-bedroom in-law or rental suite with twin closets, a full and half bath, and a dedicated laundry. Period elements abound: original tile floors, a Dutch door, cast-iron hardware, and tongue-and-groove detailing. The historic butler’s pantry and second laundry station add charm and functionality.
Additional Features Include:
Oversized two-car garage with ample storage and recent improvements
Copper flashing and drainage throughout
Original enamel doorknobs, locks, and fixtures throughout
Multiple fireplaces, including wood-burning and decorative marble
Thoughtful updates with Waterworks, Lefroy Brooks, and Czech & Speake fixtures
A Rare Opportunity
Located within the Georgetown Historic District and listed on the D.C. Inventory of Historic Sites, the Alexander Melville Bell House represents an extraordinary convergence of heritage, craftsmanship, and luxury. It is not merely a home—it is a legacy, ready for its next steward.
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Listing Snapshot
Price
$7,700,000
Days On Site
369 Days
Bedrooms
8
Inside Area (SqFt)
6,552 sqft
Total Baths
8
Full Baths
6
Partial Baths
2
Lot Size
0.12 Acres
Year Built
1900
MLS® Number
DCDC2224272
Status
Active
Property Tax
$42,514
HOA/Condo/Coop Fees
N/A
Sq Ft Source
Assessor
Friends & Family
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Recent Activity
a week ago
Listing updated with changes from the MLS®
5 months ago
Price changed to $7,700,000
a year ago
Listing first seen on site
General Features
Acres
0.12
Attached Garage
Yes
Direction Faces
West
Foundation
Stone
Garage
Yes
Garage Spaces
2
Levels
Three Or More
Parking
Garage Door OpenerGarageInside EntranceAttached
Parking Spaces
2
Property Sub Type
Single Family Residence
Sewer
Public Sewer
Special Circumstances
Standard
SqFt Above
4902
SqFt Below
1650
SqFt Total
7092
Style
Beaux Arts
Water Source
Public
Zoning
RES
Interior Features
Appliances
Gas Water Heater
Basement
FinishedExterior EntryDaylightFullInterior Entry
Cooling
Central AirElectric
Fireplace
Yes
Fireplaces
4
Heating
Natural GasRadiant
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Exterior Features
Construction Details
Stone
Pool Features
None
Community Features
School District
DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA PUBLIC SCHOOLS
Schools
School District
DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA PUBLIC SCHOOLS
Elementary School
Unknown
Middle School
Unknown
High School
Unknown
Listing courtesy of Washington Fine Properties, LLC
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