With parts of this home dating back to 1803, the Clarens estate at 318 N. Quaker Ln. in Alexandria has the best of both worlds: history and views. Sitting atop a scenic hill overlooking the Potomac River, it’s easy to see why it was once George Washington’s hunting lodge and served as a Civil War fort.
Now restored and modernized, the main home features seven beds and five-and-a-half bathrooms (with an additional two bedrooms and three bathrooms in various outbuildings and guest houses). Sitting on 4 acres, this Alexandria estate is currently listed at $11.5 million.
The moment you walk up to the main house, you are greeted with the property’s charm. A black-and-white marble-tiled front porch welcomes guests into the historic property.
The formal living room provides a cozy spot to sit and chat around the fireplace – which is one of nine throughout the home. The antique mantle above the 1800s gas fireplace is sure to spark up a conversation. French doors off to the side of the room lead guests onto the palazzo.
Opposite the formal space is the office/library. Built-in shelving provides ample room for all of your books and files. The home’s only wood-burning fireplace will keep the whole room toasty during late-night reading sessions. A wet bar and a half-bath are off in the corner of the room.
The French country–style kitchen will make you feel like you’re on a European vacation. A hand-painted La Cornue oven was imported from France and specially made for this home. Other amenities include two farmhouse sinks, a Sub-Zero refrigerator, and two Miele dishwashers.
The family room has the best view of both the front and back of the property. French doors were added to the back room to add more natural light and create easier access to the landscaped grounds.
Head upstairs to find the primary suite. High ceilings and the Irish mantle from 1806 will draw your eye the moment you step through the door. The spa-like bathroom has been renovated to include heated floors, a soaking tub, and a steam shower.
Off to the side of the home awaits a luxurious heated in-ground pool with a retractable cover. The entertaining space also includes a jacuzzi and brick fire pit. A barbecue area with a flagstone patio and shaded seating will keep the party going late into the night.
The pool house provides a place to get a quick break from the summer heat while also providing an extra spot for guests. The newly built outbuilding, which matches the same aesthetic as those on the property, includes a kitchen, living room, laundry room, bedroom, walk-in closet, and full bath. The property also has a separate guest house.
The property at 318 N. Quaker Ln. is listed by Allison Goodhart, Hadley Lankford, and Sue Goodhart of Compass.
Feature image courtesy C Gauthier Photography
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