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Condo

Historic DC Firehouse Penthouse Loft

Photo gallery for Historic DC Firehouse Penthouse Loft

A row of colorful Victorian-style buildings with a red fire truck parked in front.
A modern living room with a large island table, orange chairs, a fireplace, and a staircase with a wooden railing.
A modern kitchen with a central island, large windows, and a cozy seating area with a sofa and chairs.
A modern kitchen with a brick wall, a large island with bar stools, and pendant lighting.
A fire truck parked in front of a red brick building with a white garage door.

Reviews

8.4 out of 10
Very good

Highlights

  • Garage parking available
    Enjoy the convenience of garage parking - a rare offering in the area.
  • Discover nearby landmarks
    Near Howard University
5 bedrooms4 bathroomsSleeps 14

Popular amenities

  • Garage parking available
  • Kitchen
  • Washing machine
  • Air-conditioning
  • Barbecue
  • Internet access

Explore the area

View map
Washington, DC
  • Place, Howard University
    ‪11 min walk‬
  • Place, Walter E. Washington Convention Center
    ‪14 min walk‬
  • Place, Capital One Arena
    ‪5 min drive‬
  • Airport, Washington, DC (IAD-Washington Dulles Intl.)
    ‪56 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

5 bedrooms (sleeps 14)

Bedroom 1

1 Queen Bed

Bedroom 2

1 Queen Bed

Bedroom 3

1 Queen Bed and 1 Single Bunk Bed

Bedroom 4

1 Queen Bed and 2 Single Beds

Bedroom 5

1 Queen Bed

Living Room 1

1 Double Sofa Bed

Living Room 2

1 Double Sofa Bed

4 bathrooms

Bathroom 1

Soap · Towels provided · Bathtub or shower · Bathtub · Toilet · Shower only · Shampoo · Hair dryer

Bathroom 2

Soap · Towels provided · Shower only · Shampoo · Hair dryer

Bathroom 3

Soap · Towels provided · Bathtub or shower · Bathtub · Toilet · Shower only · Shampoo · Hair dryer

Bathroom 4

Soap · Towels provided · Bathtub · Toilet · Shower only · Shampoo · Hair dryer

Spaces

Kitchen
Number of living rooms

About this property

Historic DC Firehouse Penthouse Loft

Located in the Shaw neighborhood, one of DC's most hip, slick and cool areas, The Firehouse on R housed the first Fully African American Fire company in Washington DC! Built in 1884 and fully renovated in 2017 by a world famous interior designer and TV celebrity, the Firehouse merges exposed architectural beauty with historic photography and modern amenities/design. Total space is roughly 3000 square feet (or 280 square meters). Penthouse sleeps 14 comfortably with 5 bedrooms and 4 full bathrooms. 2 parking spaces & amenities included in price.

As seen on Netflix's TV Series "Stay Here" (Season 1, Episode 8)

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House Rules

Check in after 4:00 PM
Minimum age to rent: 22
Check out before 11:00 AM
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Children

Children allowed: ages 0–17
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Events

No events allowed
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Pets

No pets allowed
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Smoking

Smoking is not permitted

Check-out instructions

The host requires you to complete the following before checking out:
Load and start the dishwasher
Gather used towels
Remove personal items, remove leftover food and drinks and take out the rubbish
Turn off the lights and lock the doors
Failure to complete these may result in a negative review from the host.

Important information

You need to know

Property Registration Number 5007242201001530
Property # 9420794
Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Host has indicated that there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher, a first aid kit and a deadlock

About the area

Washington

Northwest, a neighbourhood in Washington, is home to this condo. Union Station Shopping Center and Tysons Corner Center are worth checking out if shopping is on the agenda, while those wishing to experience the area's popular attractions can visit Smithsonian Institution and Smithsonian's National Zoo. Looking to enjoy an event or a game? See what's going on at Capital One Arena or Nationals Park.
Map
Washington, DC

What's nearby

  • Howard University - 11 min walk - 0.9 km
  • Walter E. Washington Convention Center - 14 min walk - 1.2 km
  • CityCenterDC - 18 min walk - 1.6 km
  • Smithsonian American Art Museum - 4 min drive - 1.7 km
  • Capital One Arena - 5 min drive - 1.7 km

Getting around

  • Shaw Station - 5 min walk
  • New Carrollton Station - 15 min drive
  • Ronald Reagan National Airport (DCA) - 25 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Sost - ‬6 min walk
  • ‪Kiki - ‬7 min walk
  • ‪The Little Gay Pub - ‬6 min walk
  • ‪Nellie's Sports Bar - ‬7 min walk
  • ‪Beau Thai - ‬7 min walk

Frequently asked questions

Is Historic DC Firehouse Penthouse Loft pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

How much is parking at Historic DC Firehouse Penthouse Loft?

On-site parking is available at the property.

What time is check-in at Historic DC Firehouse Penthouse Loft?

Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Historic DC Firehouse Penthouse Loft?

Checkout is at 11:00 AM.

Where is Historic DC Firehouse Penthouse Loft located?

Located in Northwest, this condo building is within a 15-minute walk of Howard Theatre and Howard University. Walter E. Washington Convention Center and Capital One Arena are also within 1 mile (2 km). Shaw Station is 5 minutes by foot and U Street Station is 9 minutes.

Reviews

8.4

Very good

Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
Learn moreOpens in a new window
Rating 10 - Excellent. 20 out of 37 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 7 out of 37 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 5 out of 37 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 5 out of 37 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 37 reviews

8.2/10

Cleanliness

9.0/10

Check-in

9.0/10

Communication

9.6/10

Location

8.6/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

Verified

10/10 Excellent

Setifah J.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
We loved our Mother’s Day weekend getaway at the firehouse! It’s in a great location and we were able to walk for coffee in the morning and lunch. The host is really responsive and the house meet all of our needs! The two parking spaces were great to have being in city! We are looking forward to staying there again!
Stayed 2 nights in May 2026
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Beth H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
We had such a great time here. We needed a large space for 4 moms and 9 teens and we found it here. We were super comfortable, plenty of space for all of us, and it was so convenient having parking onsite and being close to the metro so we could explore the city without having to move our cars or pay parking fees. Would definitely recommend staying here and would stay again!
Stayed 2 nights in May 2026
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Daryn R.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Excellent job preserving and documenting the history of this Firehouse! Well appointed and had everything we needed for a family trip to DC. Great location and convenient to all of the city’s events and attractions. Would definitely stay here again if ever in DC again.
Stayed 5 nights in Apr 2026
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Renee B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Perfect location for our weekend getaway. Plenty of room and just as advertised. Close to everything and great neighborhood.
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2026
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Rose L.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Great place for a large group to get to spend time together! Great location in the city and lots of room.
Stayed 3 nights in Jan 2026
Verified

6/10 Okay

Kevin T.

Liked: Check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Disliked: Cleanliness
Good location, close enough to walk everywhere and plenty of room to park. One room smelled funny due to broken washing machine. Some of the kids stuff broken and well used for the fire decorations that my kids were an excited for that didn’t work. But overall good place to stay.
Stayed 4 nights in Apr 2026
Verified

6/10 Okay

Cristina- R.

Loved the location to down town, loved the host communication.
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

James D.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
It was awesome staying in the historic firehouse! The house was very clean and slept 10 people very comfortably. The location is great, and the host was very responsive before we checked in. We would definitely stay again.
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2025
Verified

8/10 Good

Judson L.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
It was a fun place to stay. Very unique.
Stayed 8 nights in Jul 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

brooks m.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great Place

Very cool house in a very convenient location.
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2021
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Edward N.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great place in an awesome neighborhood

It’s a great place with lots of space for everyone. We enjoyed our stay. Close to the Metro and awesome restaurants. Highly recommended
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Monica S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Reunion

It was a fantastic stay. Location great. Property had everything we needed. Beds and towels were great.
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 4 December 2022
Glad you enjoyed the firehouse. Come back again!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Dori J.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great place to stay!

The location was great - within easy walking distance of the metro stop, restaurants, and grocery stores. There was plenty of room for our group. The historical character of the architecture is wonderful. Overall, a great experience. We highly recommend!
Stayed 4 nights in Oct 2024
Verified

4/10 Poor

Diane B.

Liked: Check-in, communication
Disliked: Cleanliness, listing accuracy
Spoke with owner and he indicated he would be taking care of some of maintenance issues we found. We rented this property to celebrate our 50th anniversary with our kids and grandkids and it was very disappointing that the beautiful photos posted of the property didn’t match what we experienced when we arrived. This was our first time experience with VRBO.
Stayed 6 nights in Oct 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Elizabeth L.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great historic property!

We had a great stay. The place was located in a good area convenient to metro. We utilized both the metro and uber. There was a grocery store about 15 minute walk away. The house was clean. There were pots, dishes and dishwasher which came in handy with kids. Overall great little vacation. We hope to stay here again in the future!!
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Gara F.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Epic stay

Perfect location … awesome vibe …. beautiful architecture … incredible photography … super comfy beds … we will be back. This place is a gem and Michael is an excellent host. The AC kept us cool when we came in from the 100 degree heat. Thank you for hosting our meaningful and memorable week in DC! Thank you for having us.
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Samantha E.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great location and comfortable

Our group of 9 had plenty of room. We really enjoyed having a large kitchen to do meals in and hang out. The natural lighting from the front windows and skylight was lovely. It was also nice to be able to do laundry. The firehouse is situated in a nice area, within easy walking distance of metro stop, restaurants, and grocery stores. Great experience, and glad we found this place.
Stayed 2 nights in Jan 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Maryalice M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

MCM weekend

Couple of us came down for the MCM my 3 yr old nephew was entertained the entire time with all the workings and dress up equipment required to be a fireman !! While the rest of us enjoyed group dinners in the spacious easily entertaining kitchen loved the entire weekend thanks DC firehouse !!
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 4 December 2022
Glad you enjoyed your stay!
Verified

6/10 Okay

katherine h.

Liked: Check-in, communication
Disliked: Cleanliness

Bed Linen s /bath towels

Alot of stairs for carrying luggage and cooler /needed updated bed linens and not alot of towels no wash cloths owner needs to check why Led lights under upstairs cabinets not sure why it was there Check for hidden cameras ,Over all things were nice /but not great.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Jessica C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

A Unique Setting for Lasting Memories

We had an incredible weekend staying at this beautifully converted firehouse in Washington, DC! Our group of 13 women (ages 21-45) found the space to be absolutely perfect for our getaway. The layout is fantastic, with plenty of comfortable sleeping accommodations that allowed everyone to have their own space while still feeling connected. The open common areas made it easy to gather, whether for meals, games, or just relaxing.The amenities were well thought out and easy to find, making our stay seamless from start to finish. Whether we were staying in and enjoying the unique charm of the firehouse or heading out to explore DC, the location worked perfectly. The neighborhood felt safe, and we had no trouble getting to restaurants, bars, and local attractions.This is an ideal spot for a large group looking for a fun and memorable stay. Highly recommend!
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Women of V.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

DC Firehouse

Excellent Everything! Owner was super gracious. Mike “Firehouse” keeps a nice lodging. Roomy enough for all 5 of us. Two TVs. Washer and dryers, extra blankets. Easy location, walking, biking. Uber comes at lightening speed. Close to DC’s most visited monuments. Highly reccomend The Unconventional Diner for breakfast. As an historic African American Collective, we were bowled over by the history of this site, which is curated on the walls and windows. You will enjoy a carefree and beautiful stay!
Stayed 5 nights in Oct 2023
Verified

6/10 Okay

Dianne K.

Liked: Location
Disliked: Cleanliness, check-in

The Historical Place in Good Location

Upon entering it had not been cleaned. Contacted owner and was told they would be out Sunday morning to clean. Refrigerator not working at all, had to use. Very small unit that came from somewhere. The grandkids enjoyed staying and said it was close to almost everything. Suggestion, let people know how many stairs they must climb. Anyone with a disability couldn’t do it. Was told we would receive a refund for. Our cleaning deposit.
Stayed 8 nights in Feb 2025
Verified

4/10 Poor

Lisa B.

Liked: Check-in, location, listing accuracy
Disliked: Cleanliness

Great location but….

Even though the firehouse is cool, historic and a good location, it needs some attention. One refrigerator door pull is missing. The stove is dirty, could not get all burners to work and one stove pull was held on by a wire. Upstairs bedroom smells moldy. Couldn’t get the fireplace to work. Shower turns on with pliers and carpet worn out and stained.
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2023
Verified

8/10 Good

Patricia W.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
This vrbo was wonderful. My extended family (3 generations ranging in age from 12 - 76) just returned from spending Christmas week there.The firehouse is the absolute cleanest vrbo we have stayed in - which to us is a huge plus. The kitchen was the best stocked vrbo kitchen we've experienced. I was nervous about that, since I was cooking dinner for us. No issue at all! Plenty dishes, utensils, cooking pots/pans and all tools needed to do a traditional turkey dinner for Christmas. There was 1 burner that didn't work....but we worked around it and had no other issues with the kitchen.The firehouse was nice and roomy allowing us the space we needed when we were together too much on any given day. The only room that seemed lacking was the middle living room. We all thought it could use a big table/chair set up or fooseball table. But no complaints, we just didn't use the room except when my husband worked remotely from there 1 day.We really had no complaints. There were a couple outlets that didnt work (particularly in the front bathroom) but we just did our hair in one of the other 3 bathrooms. It appears there is electrical work that is being done (maybe new lighting) which will be helpful. It didn't cause us issues and was out of any harms way....just something we noticed Would def recommend the Firehouse for a unique stay that had all the creature comforts of home. The host was very attentive and responsive as well which is always nice
Stayed 5 nights in Dec 2025
Verified

8/10 Good

Mary C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Fun Experience

Overall we had a good stay. The property was clean and ready for us upon arrival. We were a family of 10 so we had plenty of sleeping areas. The bedrooms just inside the door were terribly hot throughout our stay, they have 1 fan in there which just doesn’t do what is needed during the hotter months apparently. The upstairs bedrooms stayed cool but there is some dripping from the vents onto the floors/bed. There are lots of stairs so just be ready for that. It had one working washer and dryer on the main floor, the one in the upstairs bedroom didn’t work for us but we were happy to have the one. They could use tvs in the bedrooms, the lighting throughout the apartment is different, and there aren’t outlets in all the bathrooms, but you can make it all work.It is a unique space and they tried to keep with the theme of the building in the decor so sometimes function is lost to that. Some couches/chairs could use updating but again, it all worked. They did have towels, some bathroom supplies, dishes, etc. which are convenient to have. D
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2025

About the host

Hosted by Mike Abbenante

Host profile image

Languages:

Spanish
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