Barack Obama's former townhouse combines laid-back decor with refined DC style – listed for $1.29 million

A three-story townhouse – that served as President Barack Obama's residence during his time as US senator – is on the market for $1.279 million. 

Situated on the eastern edge of Stanton Park (a short walk from the United States Capitol), the 1970s brick dwelling was an apt choice for Barack, who began his United States Senate career in  January 2005. He lived in the home, alongside his wife Michelle, until 2008, when he departed to launch his presidential campaign trail. 

Despite its somewhat humble characteristics, this home's generous size, contemporary interiors, and enviable zipcode make it one of the most exciting listings in DC.

Naturally, Hawaii-born politician Barack Obama is most famously associated with his time at 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue – but his property portfolio stretches far beyond the White House – spanning from a mansion in Martha's Vineyard, Massachusetts – to his current home, not too far from this one, in elegant Kalorama, Washington DC.

The quintessential brick façade is a sign of the laid-back yet chic interiors that lay behind its red front door. 

Inside, the on-trend gray-green walls are perhaps the most striking part of the open-plan living space. This subtle hue, described as the new neutral, is the new alternative to stark gray – pairing seamlessly with light wood, neutral soft furnishings, and house plants – just as demonstrated in Obama's former home. 

Alongside its fashionable paint palette, the east-facing living and dining space boasts hardwood floors and a wood-burning fireplace with a modern marble front. The living room has access to French doors – leading to the rear iron deck with views of the shared yard – and the prestigious redbricks around Stanton Park.

The open-plan space leads to a white kitchen – complete with sleek wooden cabinets and a timeless tile backsplash. The kitchen also features a breakfast nook, offering views across the neighborhood to accompany your morning coffee. 

Upstairs, the third floor comprises two bedrooms, one of which has views of the aforementioned park – and both of which boast ample built-in closet space. They sit alongside a large bathroom with a soaking tub and a separate laundry room that is equipped with utility essentials. 

Linda Pettie and Michael Tubbs of Coldwell Banker Realty currently hold this historic listing. And, while we can't all make this house our home, we can learn more about Barack Obama's life (including the time spent in this house) via the book below.

A Promised Land | $19.35 on Amazon

This New York Times Bestseller is described as a riveting, deeply personal account of history in the making – from Barack Obama himself. 

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