Prospect House

Prospect House sits on Prospect Street showcasing classic Georgian features with a symmetrical facade and three stories. The structure gained an octagonal addition during the Victorian period that extends from the original design.

William Thornton, architect of the U.S. Capitol, designed this house in 1788 for General James Maccubin Lingan, a founding figure in Washington. The property became a gathering place for influential visitors during the city's early decades.

The name derives from the views of the Potomac River that were visible from the original property. You can see how the Georgian design still shapes the character of the Georgetown neighborhood today.

The estate preserves original architectural elements and includes gardens plus veranda spaces for exploration. Visitors should expect uneven surfaces and historic staircase design as part of the original character.

A remarkable U-shaped stairway connects all three floors and demonstrates the architectural creativity of the late 1700s. This staircase design was an innovative solution for using vertical space efficiently.

Location: Washington, D.C.

Architectural style: Georgian architecture

Address: 3508 Prospect Street NW, Washington, D.C. 20007

GPS coordinates: 38.90586,-77.06961

Latest update: December 12, 2025 17:40