Former Home of Swedish Ambassador Is DC’s Most Expensive

The former home of the Swedish ambassador in Washington, DC, is also the most expensive listing in the nation’s capital.

Priced at $19.5 million, the 11,212-square-foot property has been on the market for just over a month and already has a contingent offer.

“The home is owned by the Swedish government and is right by American University, which is just so rare,” says listing agent Cara Pearlman, of Compass.

“The real standout feature is that three lots make up the 6.7 acres,” Pearlman says. “At the back of the property, there is a lit tennis court where they would do some fundraising and have famous tennis players come and play.”

Designed for entertaining

The mansion was built in 1925, and the interiors have been modified over the years.

“The exterior has always been a Mediterranean-Spanish style with its terra-cotta roof, but the interior has gone through some updates over the years and is due for a renovation,” she adds.

There are seven bedrooms, seven full baths, and three half-bathroom. What makes the home unique is that it is designed for both grand entertaining and private living.

“While it was used as the ambassador’s residence, they had a commercial kitchen that they used when entertaining,” she says. “This isn’t your typical residence. The upper level was the family quarters. At this price point, it certainly isn’t your run-of-the-mill property.”

The first floor contains the commercial kitchen, complete with a wing for support staff. A formal library and a ballroom (yes, a ballroom) are also on the main level. There’s also a second kitchen located upstairs.

Located just 20 minutes from Reagan National Airport, the gated property features a circular drive for easy access to the home, perfect for guests arriving by chauffeur.

Original elements

The mansion features arched windows and doors, hardwood flooring, a grand staircase, window seats, several fireplaces, and a wood-paneled library. The rooms are spacious and feature plenty of windows.

“The area that the house is in is low density, so the zoning is residential,” Pearlman says. “Nebraska Avenue is a main artery. There is a church on one side of the property and a property owned by the Japanese embassy on the other.

“It’s located in American University Park, which is a highly desirable area,” she adds. “It’s also within walking distance to Spring Valley that has a local market and boutique shops. It’s not the heart of downtown DC, but it’s a very beautiful area.”