This 120-year-old Capitol Hill house isnt making way for mixed-use development It is rising up

A 120-year-old house in Capitol Hill is being lifted to create a new commercial space beneath it, reflecting the area's evolving landscape. Owners Don and Erin Blakeney, who acquired the property in 2011, aim to preserve the home’s historic character while contributing to the growing mixed-use environment. The project involves a brownstone-style addition designed to connect the house to nearby developments, which include apartments and commercial spaces. Board and Vellum architects crafted the design, transforming the former basement into a street-level café to enhance community engagement. Construction commenced this summer after delays caused by the pandemic, with completion expected to take at least 18 months.

The Blakeneys have expressed their commitment to involving the community in the ongoing project and are eager to gather stories about the house’s history. In recent years, the neighborhood has seen significant changes, including the opening of the Capitol Hill Urban Cohousing building next door. Such developments signify a shift toward a more mixed-use corridor, aligning with the Blakeneys' vision for their property.