Benson House: Transforming a Garage into a Modern Living Space
In Northwest Washington, DC, where 1930s center-hall colonial houses defined the streetscape, a bold renovation by Colleen Healey Architecture reimagines a detached garage as a vibrant, light-filled living space.
The homeowners sought to expand their living space while re-establishing a connection to their backyard, previously blocked by a garage. Rather than demolish the existing structure, Healey’s team embraced the challenge of integrating the past with the present. Whitewashed brick, LED-integrated ceilings, and a step-down transition from the main house foster an intimate, grounded ambiance. Heated concrete floors and exposed concrete blocks reinforce the space’s industrial roots, while rich mahogany and dark oak floors add warmth and sophistication.
Built on a tight urban lot, the project required inventive spatial planning. The team preserved the playroom above the garage, introduced expansive windows, and elevated the ceiling where possible to enhance natural light. Every detail of the Benson House reflects Colleen Healey’s client-driven approach and her respect for balancing historical integrity with modern functionality. The finished space offers a refined, light-filled retreat.
This transformation proves that, with vision and respect for history, even the most challenging spaces can become timeless works of architectural art.
Credits:
Colleen Healey Architecture
Frazier Springfield Photography
Summer ‘24