European elegance meets modern flair in Azali Kassum’s historic row house
In the heart of a picturesque Georgetown block lies a Federal row house with a story to tell. Often referred to as “the seam house,” it showcases a visible vertical line on its brick exterior, marking the juncture where a newer section meets the original part of the home, which dates back to the 1700s.
Interior designer Azali Kassum was drawn to the rich history beneath her feet, feeling its charm immediately. “The moment I stepped inside, I could feel the centuries of history with every step I took,” she recalls. The house, once a cobbler’s workshop, still boasts stunning timber beams and well-worn pine floors from its earlier days.
Kassum, along with her husband Ian Myers, who works in healthcare, purchased the 3,000-square-foot residence in 2014. With the help of architect Christian Zapatka, they embarked on a three-year renovation that revitalized the four-section property.
The House Through Time
The central part of the house was once home to Colonel Washington Bowie, Sr., a godson of George Washington. Over time, the house saw several additions: a two-and-a-half-story section in the mid-19th century brought the home closer to the sidewalk, and later, a narrow walkway was bricked in to create a side stairwell. The final addition in the mid-20th century completed the home’s distinctive look.
Zapatka’s first step in the renovation was to replace the rear addition with a 600-square-foot annex, housing an expanded kitchen, a new primary bedroom, and a basement playroom—all connected by a modern glass-walled staircase. The kitchen, designed in collaboration with Snaidero DC Metro, features a mix of sleek white cabinets and warm metal finishes. According to kitchen designer Shawna Dillon, “The goal was to create a smooth transition between old-world charm and contemporary design.”
Preserving History
The renovation also saw a new copper roof installed, alongside updated wiring and plumbing. In true Georgetown fashion, the original windows and French doors were restored rather than replaced. A fascinating discovery was made when an old pulley system was found while removing a small stairwell—this relic is now proudly displayed in the garden.
To maintain the home’s historic integrity, Kassum and Zapatka used reclaimed pine for the floors, perfectly matching them to the century-old boards in the original structure. The walls were given a rustic plaster finish in Benjamin Moore’s Simply White, adding to the timeless yet minimalist vibe of the house.
Design Inspiration
The renovation took inspiration from European interiors. Kassum, inspired by Parisian apartments and the charm of Amsterdam row houses, sought to create a space that felt lived-in yet sophisticated. Belgian designer Axel Vervoordt was a frequent reference for both Kassum and Zapatka.
The furnishings are a curated mix of vintage and mid-century pieces, including designs by Fritz Hansen, Paul McCobb, and B&B Italia. High-end lighting from Alison Berger, Apparatus Studio, and Ochre adds a modern touch, while Kassum’s personal art collection—including colorful works by her three children—adds warmth and personality.
A New Career Path
As the renovation came to a close, Kassum found herself rethinking her career as an intellectual property lawyer. The design process had captivated her, inspiring a career shift toward interior design. She now runs her own firm, using her home as both a canvas and calling card for her organic, effortless approach.
“I believe design should evoke an emotional response,” Kassum explains. “This home is a labor of love, and you can feel it in every corner.”
