Situated on a handsome residential block in Mount Vernon, 16 West Read Street is a refined mid nineteenth century townhouse that blends historic architectural elegance with the scale, flexibility, and lifestyle today’s urban buyers demand. Originally constructed in 1857 for the daughter of the Attorney General of Virginia, the residence has been thoughtfully restored with curated improvements that respect its heritage while supporting modern living.
A distinguished double mahogany entrance opens to a grand flagstone reception hall, setting a strong architectural tone. The ground level functions as a self contained suite with three spacious rooms, two powder rooms, and a well appointed galley kitchen. Currently used as a professional office, this level benefits from rare residential and office zoning, offering flexibility for a gallery, studio, workspace, or entertaining level.
The primary living quarters unfold across the upper floors, creating a private, light filled environment. The second floor features a gracious drawing room with tall windows, high ceilings, and a wood burning fireplace. The adjoining kitchen includes bespoke cabinetry, quartzite surfaces, ceiling height storage with library ladder, farmhouse sink, and a six burner Bertazzoni range. A formal dining room opens to a private roof terrace, ideal for outdoor dining and entertaining. This level also includes an additional bedroom or study and a renovated full bath.
The third floor offers a generous primary suite with ensuite bath, along with an additional bedroom and a beautifully finished bath featuring a walk in shower, clawfoot soaking tub, marble tile, and brass fixtures.
The lower level includes a home gym, wine cellar, laundry, workshop, and storage.
While currently configured with separate zones, the home can easily be reconnected to function as a seamless single family residence.
Additional features include new windows, upgraded HVAC, 400 amp electrical service, twenty nine owned solar panels reducing electric costs by approximately thirty percent annually, and a dedicated EV charger.
A rare front garden, designed with perennial plantings, creates a gracious entry, while a private side courtyard offers a quiet retreat. At the rear, three off street parking spaces provide exceptional convenience.
Located in the heart of Mount Vernon, the home is steps from the Washington Monument and within walking distance to The Coral Wig, Magdalena, The Prime Rib, Sotto Sopra, The Helmand, Cafe Fili, and Spirits of Mount Vernon, along with major cultural institutions including the Walters Art Museum, Peabody Library, and Center Stage.
Penn Station is approximately half a mile away, offering MARC access to Washington and Amtrak and Acela service to Philadelphia and New York. Johns Hopkins, University of Maryland, University of Baltimore, and MICA are all nearby.
