Emma S. Fitzhugh House

The Emma S. Fitzhugh House is a three-story residence at 2253 R Street Northwest in Washington, D.C. that displays Spanish Renaissance and Mediterranean Revival features throughout its design. The structure shows fine architectural detailing in its exterior walls, windows, and entrance elements typical of early 20th-century elite neighborhoods.

The residence was completed in 1904 by builder William Lipscombs & Co under architect Waddy Butler Wood's direction for the Fitzhugh family. The Philippine government acquired the property in 1947 and converted it into the official residence for their ambassadors to the United States.

The house reflects its origins as a private residence for a prominent local family in the early 1900s. Today it serves as a center for diplomatic activity and cultural exchange between nations.

The building is not open to the public as it functions as an official diplomatic residence. Visitors can view the exterior architecture from the street and observe the historical markers placed on the building.

Historical markers were installed on the building in 2021 and 2022 to recognize its role in strengthening ties between two nations. These plaques highlight how a private mansion from the early 1900s became an important venue for international diplomacy.

Location: Washington, D.C.

Inception: 1904

Architects: Waddy Butler Wood

Architectural style: Spanish Renaissance architecture, Mediterranean Revival architecture

Floors above the ground: 3

Address: 2253 R Street Northwest

GPS coordinates: 38.91281,-77.05076

Latest update: December 14, 2025 15:00