The Washington D.C. area is no stranger to neoclassical architecture style. Federal and Greek Revivals famously dot historic neighborhoods stretching from the nation’s capital to the surrounds in Maryland and Virginia. Resting less than 25 miles from Capitol Hill in Fairfax Station, Virginia — Woodley House — takes design cues from neoclassical influences and gives it a Jazz Age twist with Art Deco elements and modern tech updates that are sure to please even the most fervant of Great Gatsby fans.
Listed by Marin Hagen and Sylvia Bergstrom of Coldwell Banker Realty in Washington D.C. for $3,500,000, the estate is a monument to Gatsby-esque grandeur with approximately 17,000 square feet of space. Award-winning construction by Monarc Construction elevates every unique touch adorning the home.
“Woodley House is unlike any other in the D.C. area, making it a once in a lifetime opportunity to own,” says Hagen. “Offering expansive living, early 20th-century classic design, dramatic adornments and an abundance of entertaining spaces, this estate balances a uniqueness and practicality that makes it a standout in the market.”
The owners, Gary and Amy Perlin, lovingly created a home that was inspired by their travels and passion for the Art Deco era. Turning to Monarc Construction to bring their vision to life, they meticulously selected the finest finishes and details, including many vintage and custom-built furnishings (which can be purchased with the home as an option). “Every room and finish was thoughtfully designed to evoke a feeling of wonder and warmth,” explains Amy Perlin. “We wanted to create a home that people would feel comfortable in and not want to leave.”
Set atop a hill on five private acres of majestic wooded grounds, the executive mansion was built for entertaining. With its natural flow and true catering kitchen, it can easily accommodate seated dinners for 26 and cocktails for hundreds. The grand two-story foyer, parlor, living room, two-story mahogany library and surrounding 1,000 square foot enclosed courtyard provide ideal indoor/outdoor flow for parties. Well-defined public and private spaces, with distinctive features such as curved corridors and ‘hidden’ doors and staircases punctuate the entire home.
The Perlins also ingeniously created a lavish owners’ wing on the main level. A master suite of all master suites, the space occupies over 3,700 square feet with a large distinctive bedroom and foyer, two room-sized dressing rooms, a luxurious spa, plus a large private laundry room, a home theatre and two large working offices. “It’s the perfect place to work from home and to relax,” adds Bergstrom. Upstairs, there are three distinctive en suite guest rooms, providing complete privacy and comfort for visitors. Family/game rooms and a second kitchen/bar complete the walk-out lower level. Two grand street entrances from two different sides, and parking for approximately 50 cars are also included among the amenities that the Perlins incorporated into the home to make it suitable for executive-level entertaining.
The property’s location is private yet easily accessible to the entire National Capital area. Adds Bergstrom: “It offers security and privacy tucked away on a peaceful five-acre lot, which allows for plentiful room to entertain and to enjoy the outdoors. The location is conveniently positioned just a short drive to the nation’s capital and several points in the surrounding area, including National and Dulles airports.”
Remarkably, Woodley House is not simply an ode to an Art Deco past. Over the years, The Perlins have added smart and eco-friendly features to the residence, including low-voltage technology, a green roof, recycled materials in the terrazzo kitchen floor and roofing, and a 2,000-gallon underground cistern. The uncommon combination of modern technology, eco-conscious design and early 20th-century style give Woodley House a timeless quality that is not easily forgotten. Concludes Gary Perlin: “After many years of fond memories, we are ready to move on to our next chapter and allow someone else to write theirs in this amazing home.”
