Warder Mansion

What to know

The Warder Mansion, also known as the Warder-Totten House, is a stunning architectural landmark located at 2633 16th Street NW in the Meridian Hill neighborhood of Washington, D.C. Constructed in 1886, this Romanesque Revival masterpiece was designed by the famed architect H. H. Richardson. It stands as the only surviving building in the city designed by Richardson, making it a rare architectural treasure. Originally built as an opulent city residence for American industrialist Benjamin Warder and his family, the building's design reflects the luxury of the late 19th century. The structure's heavy stone masonry and rounded arches are characteristic of the Romanesque Revival style, which Richardson perfected. In 1972, the mansion was added to the National Register of Historic Places, ensuring its preservation as a significant piece of city history. The property has since been adapted for modern city living, transitioning from a single-family home to an apartment complex. Today, the building contains 38 units across four stories, providing an elegant approach to urban living while maintaining its historic character. Visitors can admire the exterior's architectural detail from the sidewalk, as the building now serves as private residences.

Visitor tips

• Admire the stone masonry and rounded arches from the sidewalk, as the building is now private apartments.
• Visit during the morning or late afternoon for the best lighting on the stone facade.
• Combine this stop with a walk through the nearby Meridian Hill neighborhood to see other historic homes.
• If you are interested in leasing, the leasing office is open Monday through Friday, 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., and Saturday from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.

Nearby context

The Warder Mansion is situated in the Meridian Hill neighborhood, an area known for its historic residential architecture and elegant streetscapes of 16th Street NW.