A third-floor pop-up done right
I've railed in the past against some of the atrocious renovations taking place in my neighborhood, which are epitomized by this house, recently made infamous on Prince of Petworth's blog.
A few months ago, a house across the street from me sold, and was gutted within the week. Next thing I knew a third story had been added, and my heart sank. Not on my block, please! Dammit, I just got here! First, the speedbumps, and now this? Not that my block is the most attractive block in Columbia Heights. It's got a lot of different styles on the block, including a little apartment building. But I've always felt that the mix of architecture is eclectic and cool. I was sure this would ruin it. Then, they put in the new windows a few weeks ago. Casements. In the front. Seriously? This was not a good sign.
Well, within the last week they've done a lot of exterior work and it's all come together. They put stucco over the brick, and have started installing faux slate roofing. And honestly I think it looks great. The third floor isn't obtrusive, and the overhang is very tasteful. The casement windows work perfectly with the stucco exterior. And they're using copper flashing! Who does that? I think this is going to be a nice renovation.
View from across the street.
View from below
4 comments:
stucco is one of the most trashy things that can happen to brick (second only to painting it neon blue (see E St, NE between 5th and 7th streets)
does anyone know if there is a reversal process that can be done in later years? i see de-stucco-ing being a major business in decades to come.
Well, I don't really agree - while I generally prefer the original brick, in the situation of adding a level to a 100 year old home, this makes the facade look consistent. If it works with the rest of the style I think it's fine.
No idea how you would remove it, though. Sandblasting? Whatever you might do, would probably also be very bad for the mortar and you'd have to repoint too.
Yeah, I'm anti-stucco myself, but it's just a matter of one person's opinion of moonlight. Some likes it. Some don't. Hate casement windows, too.
Post a Comment