CoHi Alley House

Columbia Heights
Washington, DC

CoHi Alley House reclaims an underutilized parking pad in Washington, DC’s Columbia Heights neighborhood and transforms it into a 2,700-square-foot, two-story single-family residence, demonstrating the potential of alley lots to support thoughtful urban infill and incremental density.

Constrained by limited site access, atypical lot geometry, and the technical demands of introducing new utility infrastructure within an active alley, the project required close coordination with District agencies and utility providers, as well as careful construction sequencing within a narrow public right-of-way. These logistical challenges informed a compact building footprint and an efficient structural and service strategy that maximizes livability while respecting the surrounding context.

The exterior combines corrugated metal cladding with natural wood accents, balancing durability and low maintenance with warmth and human scale. Generous openings and a roof terrace introduce daylight, outdoor space, and visual connection to the neighborhood, countering the perception of alley housing as secondary or compromised.

By converting overlooked urban infrastructure into high-quality housing, CoHi Alley House offers a replicable model for sustainable, small-site development in Washington, DC and other dense cities seeking to expand housing supply without altering neighborhood character.