Historic D.C. Church Conversion Lists for $1.6M With Private Bell Tower Lounge
A unique residential conversion in Washington, D.C.’s Capitol Hill neighborhood has entered the market for $1.67 million. According to Realtor.com, the two-bedroom penthouse is located within a former 19th-century church and features the only known private bell tower integrated into a home in the District, offering 360-degree views.
Context from Industry Pulse
The conversion of the Ninth Street Christian Church reflects a broader trend in urban real estate where historic religious structures are repurposed into high-end residential assets. By maintaining the 1897 Gothic Revival facade and signature stained-glass elements, developers leverage the scarcity of historic architecture to command premium pricing. The Sanctuary project specifically targets the luxury segment by integrating modern industrial brands like Wolf and Sub-Zero within a shell that offers irreplaceable features, such as the 85-foot tower. This sale highlights the enduring value of Capitol Hill real estate, where rarity and historical significance often outweigh standard square-footage valuations.
The property, known as the Bell Tower Penthouse at The Sanctuary, occupies space within the former Ninth Street Christian Church. Realtor.com notes that the Gothic Revival structure dates back to 1897 and was originally designed by Lawrence B. Valk and Son. In 2016, Bonstra Haresign Architects oversaw the conversion of the religious site into luxury condominiums, preserving many of the historic architectural elements. The current owner, who used the residence as a secondary home, is the second person to own the unit since the renovation.
Spanning 2,019 square feet, the interior layout includes two bedrooms and two and a half bathrooms. The residence utilizes the church's original aesthetic, featuring exposed brick, hardwood flooring, and restored stained-glass windows throughout the living areas and primary bedroom. As Realtor.com reports, the dining room is particularly notable for its 33-foot ceilings and a 15-foot stained-glass window depicting traditional religious symbols. A specific nook in the home serves as a functional office space, repurposed from the building's former choir loft.
The most distinctive feature is the 85-foot private bell tower, which is accessed via an internal staircase. The top level of the tower has been converted into a private lounge that provides panoramic views of the Washington Monument and the U.S. Capitol. While the exterior remains historic, the interior has been updated with contemporary amenities. The kitchen is equipped with white cabinetry, a central island, Sub-Zero refrigeration, and a six-burner Wolf range. The bathrooms feature white marble finishes, soaking tubs, and double vanities.
Located in the Capitol Hill neighborhood, the property includes two on-site parking spaces, which the listing agent describes to Realtor.com as a rare amenity for the area. The neighborhood is recognized for its proximity to Eastern Market and various federal institutions, alongside its residential character defined by tree-lined streets and historic architecture. The sale is positioned toward buyers seeking a collectible asset that combines historical preservation with modern residential utility.
The Industry Pulse Bottom Line
This $1.67 million listing demonstrates how developers can maximize the value of historic church conversions by turning architectural necessities, like bell towers, into exclusive lifestyle amenities.