Madeline Albright's Beloved D.C. Home is Cottagecore at Its Finest
Calling all politicos: If you want to grab a slice of American history, Madeline Albright's Washington D.C. home just hit the market for $4 million. Nestled in the upscale Georgetown area—which is a quick drive away away from the city's key landmarks including the White House and Washington monument—the 4,749-square-foot residence was home to the late Secretary of State for over 50 years. (According to the Wall Street Journal, Albright purchased the all-American abode for $100,000 in 1968.)
She lived in the house up until her death in 2022, and entertained there often, welcoming the top political minds in DC for monthly dinner parties with everyone from diplomats to fellow former Secretaries of State in attendance. Now, more than 18 months after her passing, the house is on the market, listed by Michael Rankin and Logan MacKethan of TTR Sotheby’s International Realty.
Of course, there's more to this listing than its political relevancy: The home itself is also darling. Built in 1853, the residence reminds us of a charming English manse tucked in the heart of the nation's capitol. With beautiful built-ins, meticulous millwork, and a lush, foliage-filled terrace out back, it's so delightful that we can't help but wonder if Albright was way ahead of the cottagecore fad. The house embodies that rustic reverie aesthetic, managing to be both grand and cozy. Read on for an intimate look at Albright's beloved abode.
The Entry
Come on in! Once guests enter through the teal door—which offers a bold pop of color—they are transported into a slim, stately foyer that leads to a double salon.
The Salon
The front door isn't the only example of an on-point color palette. Case in point: The pastel-packed double salon. With buttery yellow walls and a plush pink carpet, Albright's common area offers a more refined take on the cottagecore phenomenon.
The Kitchen
Designed and updated by local architect Anne Decker, the gourmet kitchen is decked out with delicious touches such as a SubZero refrigerator and freezer, a Viking six-burner range, and some marvelous marble countertops.
The Dining Room
Albright would invite fellow public servants over for her monthly dinner parties. We'd love to have overheard the lively conversations she would have with Hillary Clinton, Condoleezza Rice, and Colin Powell in this divine dining room (If we could guess, we bet the chatter included some compliments on that stunning china display.)
The Garden Room
Whether you use it as a sunroom or an art studio, one thing's for sure: This sun-drenched spare room is intimate respite from the hustle and bustle of Washington D.C.
The Primary Bedroom
The Georgetown residence boasts a total four bedrooms, so Albright had plenty of room to host her family or noteworthy colleagues. In the primary suite, a blue rug and patterned upholstery adds a touch of whimsy.
The Primary Bathroom
After a long day on the Hill, Albright could unwind in this spa-like primary bathroom, complete with marble countertops and an oversized mirror.
The Home Office
Though Albright had her own workspace at the Department of State headquarters, this home office would be an ideal spot to burn the midnight oil.
The Library
With charming built-ins and bright windows, this library is the perfect place to kick back and relax with a great book. (All you need is a lounge-worthy chaise...)
The Terrace
Why leave all the "wow" moments to the interiors? This Georgetown home also features a brick-packed terrace peppered with French doors and lush landscaping.
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