Capitol Hill Historic Garage Pop-Up & Mudroom Addition

Located in the heart of Capitol Hill, this project rethinks how a historic rowhome can better support the day-to-day needs of a growing family. The goal was straightforward: create a more functional entry experience and add usable space, without disrupting the character of the home or the surrounding neighborhood.

The solution combines a mudroom addition with a garage pop-up, designed to feel like a natural extension of the existing structure. Red cedar was selected for its durability and its ability to sit comfortably within the neighborhood context, while still offering a slightly more modern expression. On the alley side, the design balances privacy with carefully placed windows that bring in natural light to both levels.

At the main level, the mudroom provides a dedicated landing space for coats, bags, and everyday essentials, something often missing in Capitol Hill homes. Above, the pop-up creates a flexible room now used as a gym and home office.

Like many projects in Capitol Hill, the path to construction required close coordination and patience. The addition went through a BZA approval and historic review, along with structural considerations tied to building over an existing garage. The end result is a well-integrated addition that adds real functionality and remains consistent with the scale and character of the neighborhood.