Neighborhood Profile: Barnaby Woods

RessaBuilt has been doing work in the Washington DC metro area for over three decades. While we consistently have projects in Virginia, Maryland, and the District, within those areas, are neighborhoods in which we have consistently had a greater presence. We would love to highlight one of those special places in which we have helped many clients over the years.

The neighborhood of Barnaby Woods is a historic, strictly residential enclave of Washington DC. The relatively small area in the most northern part of Northwest is bounded by Alberfoyle Pl, Oregon Ave, Tennyson St, and Western Ave respectively. Development originally began in the 1920s as an area to live within the city with the added benefit of a countryside atmosphere. The first set of homes was completed in 1935, some of which were designed by architect Louis Justement who designed the Barrett Prettyman Federal Courthouse in downtown DC. By 1937, seventy homes had been completed with demand steadily growing. In the modern era, the neighborhood is comprised of an eclectic mix of red-brick colonials, grandiose contemporary mansions, and a handful of sears bungalows.

Over the years, Barnaby Woods has blossomed into one of the most desirable neighborhoods in DC. Without a formal homeowner’s association, neighbors form close bonds with each other to plan events and look after their streets. Highly rated schools such as Lafayette Elementary with its neighboring park is a draw for young and growing families. Safety has also been a paramount concern and steps are constantly taken to stay vigilant against any risks. For instance, as streets began to be used as cut-through roads to other parts of the city, collaboration with the Department of Transportation was implemented in order to enact traffic suppression laws which has proved successful. Finally, the preservation of aesthetics has always been a high priority. The vast number of old-growth trees gives the neighborhood some of its greatest character and great lengths are taken to keep these towering pinnacles intact and thriving; for future generations, new saplings are constantly planted to replenish any fells that occur.

These many desirable factors have led the turnover in Barnaby Woods to be far less than in other parts of the city. Instead of moving to a larger home if expansion is desired, many who live there choose to add on to their homes by either building up or out. Since RessaBuilt has completed multiple homes in the neighborhood over the years, we have a unique expertise in the specific factors that come into play over the course of a project. Whether you live in Barnaby Woods, or the greater DC area, do not hesitate to reach out and let us help you with your home improvement needs!

Want more insight into how RessaBuilt can help you transform your home? Check out the informative articles on our blog, or contact us to get your own home remodeling project started.