In Washington DC’s historic Kalorama neighbourhood, known for its tony diplomatic residences, Virginia and Robert Ourisman's period house marries historic architecture with contemporary flair. Honed by Alisa Bloom over the course of a two year renovation, the interior is defined by the homeowners’ strong appreciation for tradition, craftsmanship and the decorative arts, particularly those rooted in Italian design.
Kalorama’s elevated position and tree-lined streets have long attracted prominent residents (including the Obamas and Jeff Bezos) but the Ourismans were as excited about the potential the prestigious address presented as its history. The couple’s brief was shaped by their shared experiences abroad, particularly in Italy, where they met as university students in Rome and later honeymooned along the Amalfi Coast. That personal connection to the country became a guiding principle throughout the project.
“They were drawn to the elegance of Italian antiques from the 1940s to the 1970s, but also wanted the house to reflect how they live today,” says Bloom, who sourced from dealers across Italy over two years.
Another defining characteristic of the interiors is the use of decorative painting to bring a sense of the outdoors into the rooms. Hand-painted wallpapers and custom murals feature botanical motifs and classical ornamentation.
In the dining room, climbing vines and dappled foliage create a canopy-like effect that softens the formality of the space; delicate brushwork on the ceiling echoes the effect of daylight filtering through trees. “The aim was more to channel the beauty of nature than to replicate it precisely,” explains Bloom. “We wanted to introduce organic shapes and colours to offset the more structured elements of the architecture.”
Among the impressive collection of antiques is a handsome carved walnut console which sets the tone for a home that feels like it has been put together over time. Pieces from 20th century Italian designers such as Guglielmo Ulrich and Paolo Buffa sit comfortably among contemporary works by emerging artists and artisans.
This harmony between old and new is evident throughout this period house (in the family room, a contemporary abstract painting contrasts with the patina of vintage furniture), and tactile surfaces (polished plaster walls, judicious flashes of marble, aged brass details) add richness without veering into excess.
To achieve balance, Bloom curated a soothing colour palette – think faded white, pale lilac and washed-out terracotta – to build a sanctuary for the couple. Layering the scheme with unexpected touches, such as the Monkey Business wallcovering by Jim Thompson in their son's room (it features a menagerie of animals in a fun reimagining of a classic French brocade design) and the 1960s chrome-and-leather armchairs by Vittorio Introini in the family lounge, lends a playful edge.
“The Ourismans wanted a home that felt personal and wasn’t too buttoned up as they like to entertain and have an infant son and a Labrador,” says Bloom. “It all had to work for their daily life as well as being elegant. They said it felt like home straight away. That was the goal from the beginning – to create a place that reflected who they are and how they want to live.” @alisa_bloom
Contemporary home decor inspiration from House & Garden
- An unusual leaf-shaped house hidden away in the Cotswold countryside
- Inside designer Clare Gaskin's family home in southwest London
- An unusual Victorian terraced house in London softened for family life
- An elegant house in north London by up-and-coming designer Rachel Aisling Walker
- This earthy London penthouse blends Italian flair with English charm
- A London townhouse with the perfect warm, modern interior for family life
