On the Market: Historic Old Town Alexandria Home with George Washington Ties Is Exquisitely Renovated

ALEXANDRIA, VA – Some Old Town Alexandria houses have history. Others have style. And every once in a while, one comes along with so much of both that it’s hard to know where to begin.

Take 220 S. Fairfax Street.

From the sidewalk, it’s a distinguished 1880s residence on one of Old Town’s most coveted blocks. But the story of this property stretches all the way back to Alexandria’s founding in 1749—and includes a connection to none other than George Washington.

And just wait until you see what’s inside.

Before There Was a House, There Was History

Long before the Italianate Revival residence was built in 1885, the land beneath it was part of Lot 73, one of Alexandria’s original half-acre lots.

The property was purchased in 1749 by John West Sr., a prominent Fairfax County landowner, military leader, and public figure whose path crossed George Washington’s more than once.

In 1754, West recruited soldiers for Washington’s Virginia Regiment. Beginning in 1765, the two men served together in Virginia’s House of Burgesses. And in 1774, West and Washington joined Thomas Jefferson, Patrick Henry, and other colonial leaders in opposing British policies as the colonies moved toward revolution.

West also helped establish Fairfax Parish and what became Christ Church, where Washington famously owned a pew.

Not a bad bit of history for one address.

The house itself came along more than a century later, in 1885. Today, following an extensive renovation and expansion completed between 2022 and 2025, this distinguished detached residence has entered an extraordinary new chapter.

An 1880s Original with a Very Modern Surprise

Historic character meets contemporary refinement in a home that has been thoughtfully transformed through an extensive renovation and expansion. Offering nearly 3,200 finished square feet, four to five bedrooms, three full baths, and one half bath, the residence combines the architectural details of its era with beautifully considered living spaces and exceptional modern amenities.

But perhaps the most dramatic surprise is at the rear of the house.

A striking addition features a wall of rare, floor-to-ceiling black Marvin windows and doors, flooding the interior with natural light and opening directly to the private rear courtyard.

The effect is spectacular: soaring ceilings, oversized windows, and an inviting connection between indoor and outdoor living.

At the center of it all, the expanded kitchen and family room create a welcoming setting equally suited to a quiet morning at home or an evening filled with friends.

A Kitchen That Might Make You Forget About Old Town’s Restaurants

And that’s saying something.

The chef’s kitchen is a showpiece, with custom inset cabinetry, Honed Danby marble countertops and a full-height backsplash, herringbone hardwood flooring, and elevated hardware and fixtures.

A premium Wolf and Sub-Zero appliance suite includes paneled refrigeration and dishwasher, a built-in espresso and coffee maker, and a wine refrigerator.

It’s a kitchen that manages to be both exceptionally sophisticated and genuinely inviting. And with some of Alexandria’s most acclaimed restaurants just a short stroll away, you’ll have plenty of options on the nights you don’t feel like cooking.

Four Bedrooms? Five? An Office? You Decide.

One of the home’s greatest luxuries is flexibility.

Thoughtfully designed for a variety of living arrangements, the residence offers four to five bedrooms, two potential primary suites, and additional spaces suited to a private office or second family room.

A versatile bedroom or upper-level lounge within the addition creates even more possibilities. Front and rear staircases connect the main and upper levels, while bedroom-level laundry provides everyday convenience.

It’s the kind of thoughtful design that allows a home to adapt to the people living in it, rather than the other way around.

Old Town Charm, Right Down to the Crystal Doorknobs

Throughout the renovation, original character has been carefully balanced with contemporary craftsmanship. Refinished original hardwood floors complement new hardwood flooring, while elegant millwork, custom built-ins, designer lighting and wallpaper, plantation shutters, and a timeless Benjamin Moore neutral palette create a sophisticated and welcoming atmosphere.

Fully renovated bathrooms feature designer appointments. Custom-crafted interior doors are finished with crystal Old Town knobs, while bespoke front and side entry doors add distinctive character.

Soaring ceilings and oversized windows enhance the sense of space and light throughout. The result is a residence that respects its 19th-century beginnings without asking its owners to live in the 19th century.

A Private Courtyard—and a Few Old Town Rarities

The private rear courtyard extends the living space outdoors, with full-color flagstone hardscaping, automatic landscape lighting, and discreet built-in storage.

A rare private alleyway and side entrance provide additional privacy and convenience. And because even the most beautiful homes need practical storage, approximately 500 square feet of basement space, accessible from both inside and outside, offers valuable utility.

These are the kinds of features that can make a real difference in everyday Old Town living.

One and a Half Blocks from King Street. Three From the River.

Location, of course, is part of the magic. Set on one of the Southeast Quadrant’s most coveted blocks, 220 S. Fairfax Street sits just one and a half blocks from King Street and three blocks from the Potomac River waterfront.

Acclaimed restaurants, independent boutiques, cafés, neighborhood parks, and the very best of Old Town are all within easy reach.

Morning coffee, an afternoon stroll, dinner out, or a walk along the waterfront can all be part of the everyday routine.

More Than a Beautiful House. Another Chapter in Alexandria History.

For more than 275 years, this parcel of Old Town Alexandria has been part of the city’s evolving story.

From its colonial beginnings and connections to George Washington to the construction of an elegant 1880s residence and its remarkable 21st-century transformation, 220 S. Fairfax Street represents a rare blend of history, craftsmanship, comfort, and sophistication.

Today, offered at $2,995,000, it presents an extraordinary opportunity to own a piece of Alexandria’s past without sacrificing the luxuries of modern living.

And perhaps the best part? The next chapter of this home’s history has yet to be written.

Take a Photo Tour of 220 S. Fairfax Street

Explore the home’s historic exterior, renovated interiors, and private courtyard. Click the arrows to browse the photographs.