The renovation of 122 Maryland Avenue, a historic mansion located on Capitol Hill in Washington, DC, involved an intricate process of restoration and thoughtful design, breathing new life into a building with deep roots in the city’s history. Originally constructed between 1817 and 1822 by Mountjoy Bayly, the Senate’s sergeant-at-arms and doorkeeper, the mansion had seen numerous owners and transformations over the years. By the time the renovation project began in 2006, the building was ready for a new chapter in its long life.
John Jessen led the renovation of 122 Maryland Avenue in collaboration with its neighboring property, combining both historic townhouses into one seamless structure. The creative vision for the project was centered around preserving the mansion’s historic charm while integrating modern comforts and infrastructure upgrades. The goal was to honor the building’s unique architectural heritage—capturing its significance and beauty—while updating it for contemporary living.
The design process included the restoration of the original facades, carefully preserving the exterior’s historical details and integrity. At the same time, over 12,000 square feet of interior space was transformed, balancing the building’s historical legacy with the need for modern amenities. The mansion’s infrastructure was entirely upgraded to meet current standards while remaining respectful of its age and character.
A key aspect of the renovation was how to integrate the building’s storied past into the design. From its early ownership by Daniel Carroll of Duddington in the 1790s to its time as the residence of influential figures like John Clement Fitzpatrick, the house had a rich history of distinguished occupants. The design aimed to reflect this sense of history while ensuring the home functioned as a modern, livable space.
In addition to preserving the historical aspects, careful attention was given to the relationship between the mansion’s old-world charm and new elements. The aesthetic choices—ranging from the preservation of original architectural details to the integration of contemporary materials—created a seamless fusion of past and present.
Throughout the process, Jessen and his team worked to ensure that 122 Maryland Avenue would continue to stand as a symbol of Washington, DC’s architectural history while providing a functional, elegant home for generations to come. The renovation was not just a technical undertaking; it was a celebration of the building’s storied past and its future in the heart of Capitol Hill.
Project location: Washington DC
Project size: 12,000 SF
Work previously completed by John Jessen as Principal Architect with Architect-of-Record VOA Associates (now Stantec).